The term pH balanced skin is one we are likely to hear from time to time, although a number of us may question – what does it actually mean and why is it important? Well, here at SkinBase, we’ve done our research and consulted our team of experts, and this blog is designed to give you the low down on how to achieve pH balanced skin and also explain why it makes a difference!
So, first things first, what does pH balanced actually mean?
By definition, ‘pH balanced’ might sound more like something you’d hear in a chemistry class than anything else, but please, stay with us and don’t fall asleep! No lectures here we promise. Leading dermatologist Patricia Wexler comments that our skin and body require a balance between acidity and alkaline for us to experience the best health possible. The skin’s barrier is referred to as the acid mantle and it helps the skin to retain its moisture and defend itself from germs and toxins. The acid mantle needs to be slightly acidic with a 5.5 pH balance for it to work effectively and at its best.
Why is it so important?
Having healthy skin is a great feeling which really has a positive impact on our confidence and enables us to, literally, face the world like nothing else! You can see the difference in the mirror and feel it, your skincare and makeup products go on easily and beautifully and other people comment on how well you look. But, on the flip-side, if your skin is too alkaline or acidic, it can be inflamed, prone to spots and breakouts, sensitive or dry. Previous research has also found that women who have skin that is more alkaline in nature are more susceptible to sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles.
What can I do to correct the inbalance?
Don’t worry if you think your skin may be acidic or alkaline in nature, because the good news is there is lots you can do! Eating a healthy diet and ensuring you have a proper skin care routine in place will help you achieve pH balanced skin. Simple and cost effective household items such as lemon (we will explain in the next point) can help to achieve that perfect balance and help ensure skin looks its best at all times.
Lemon
When it comes to inner and outer health, lemons are an absolute god and you really can’t beat these bad boys! Simply introducing more lemon water into your diet, such as hot water with lemon first thing in the morning, can help balance your body as well as help you achieve pH balanced skin. Or, you can also create a really simple, yet effective lemon toner at home by combining ½ cup of water with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Simply mix it up and then apply it directly to your skin in the way you would any other toner. This mixture will feel extremely refreshing on your skin, smell delicious and most importantly, help you balance out your skin, fight fine lines and remove any bacteria from the surface.
Look for active ingredients
There are lots of products out there that contain vitamins and antioxidants or ‘active ingredients’ as they are otherwise known, that will help protect your skin from free radicals and promote cell turnover.
Try and lead a raw diet whenever possible
While the majority of people’s skin is said to be more on the alkaline side, our diets sometimes tend to be on the acidic side. It’s time to put your diet under inspection – if you find that it consists largely of junk food, processed foods, sugar and fizzy drinks, it is likely to be too acidic. The benefits of eating more alkaline foods include that they will balance the body, allowing your blood to absorb more oxygen to aid digestion, which will in turn lead to clearer skin. Alkaline foods include garlic, kale, cayenne peppers, cabbage and carrots.
image:istockphoto.com/S_Chum
