The pH of skin care products is an important factor that affects how your skin looks and feels. Read on to discover some skin care products whose pH levels are suitable for sensitive skin types.
When we think of pH balance, vaginal pH is normally what comes to mind. In the same way you want to maintain normal vaginal pH levels, you should also maintain to the pH level of your facial skin and, as such, the skin care products you use. In fact, the pH levels in beauty products matter more than you may realize.
What’s pH?
Unsure what pH even means? Let’s rewind for a second. The term pH stands for “potential hydrogen” and it is a scale based on a measurement of 0 to 14 used to specify how acidic or basic a water-based solution is. Seven is neutral, lower values are acidic and higher values are alkaline. In order for our skin to be its healthiest it needs just the right balance between acidity and alkalinity. This magic number is 5.5.
Keeping your skin balanced helps keep it moisturized and protected from bad bacteria that can cause acne. It can also help ward off free radicals, which expedite signs of aging. Things like using the wrong skin care products or eating the wrong foods can throw off your skin’s pH balance and potentially lead to increased sensitivity, dryness, exaggerated fine lines, inflammation, and even acne. Conversely, balanced skin tends to be hydrated, clear, smooth, and even in tone.
How to Keep Skin pH Balanced
The right skin care products can help significantly, and there are even skin care products designed to do exactly that. Start with the product suggestions below.
Start with a pH Balanced Cleanser
There’s a reason why the COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser has become such a popular pick. This super gentle gel formula contains botanical ingredients along with milk acids that work to gently cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils. It helps to remove everything from makeup, dirt, and excess oil, all while leaving skin super soft and hydrated. It’s an ideal cleanser for morning cleansing and works great on sensitive and dry skin.
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Follow Up with a pH Balanced Toner
In addition to avoiding harsh cleansers with an alkaline pH — which can strip skin of its natural oils — adding a pH balancing toner to your routine can also make a major difference. Make sure your toner doesn’t make your skin feel tight afterwards and instead leaves skin smooth, soft, and calm. Try Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner, which is formulated with peony extract and a high concentration of licorice water that work to hydrate and brighten skin. It’s perfect for all skin types.
Another great option is the SoonJung pH 5.5 Relief Toner, which is specifically for sensitive skin types. It contains vitamin B5 and madecassoside — derived from centella asiatica (cica), which work in tandem to repair and restore damaged or sensitive skin.
Apply a pH Balanced Eye Cream
Who says your eye area doesn’t need pH balancing? The Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Eye Cream is formulated with licorice water and licorice extract to help combat hyperpigmentation and brighten dark circles. Green tea, blueberry extract, and caffeine work to tighten and reduce inflammation that cause any puffiness underneath your eyes.
Freshen Up with a pH Balanced Facial Mist
The Soko Glam and Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Essence Mist works great as a companion to the Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner. Unlike your usual facial mist, this one has more of a milky texture and leaves skin moisturized, bright, and refreshed throughout the day. Spritz a little on whenever your skin feels like it needs a hydrating pick-me-up.
