pH, or “potential of hydrogen,” is a fundamental concept that plays a crucial role in our daily lives, from health to personal care. It is measured on a scale ranging from 0 to 14, with lower values indicating acidity, higher values indicating alkalinity, and a value of 7 being considered neutral. But why is it important to know pH when it comes to personal care products, such as soaps and shower gels? And how do these products influence the health of our skin?
Understanding pH: Acidic, Basic and Neutral
pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. A pH value below 7 indicates that the substance is acidic, while a value above 7 indicates that it is alkaline. When the pH is exactly 7, the substance is neutral, such as pure water. Below are some examples of pH in common elements:
- Hydrochloric acid : pH 1 (highly acidic).
- Lemon juice : pH 2 (very acidic).
- Tap water : pH approximately 7 (neutral).
- Bleach : pH 12 (highly alkaline).
pH and skin: a fundamental relationship
Human skin has a slightly acidic pH, ranging from 5 to 6, depending on the body area and individual conditions. This natural acidity is vital because it acts as a protective barrier, helping to keep harmful bacteria and other environmental contaminants out. This is known as the skin's acid mantle. When this natural pH is disturbed, the skin can become vulnerable to infection, irritation and dryness.
You should also keep in mind that not all parts of our body have the same pH:
- The skin of the face and body in general have a pH between 4.7 and 5.7 but there are other areas where it can vary.
- There are areas that are generally more covered, such as the genital area or the armpits , where bacteria that cause bad odor proliferate. These areas have a pH around 6.5 .
On the other hand there are also differences between the skin of a baby and that of a adult:
- At birth the baby has a neutral pH around 7 which will turn acidic in a few weeks.
- When this baby becomes an adult, its skin will have a pH around 5.5 .
And finally, we will also find pH differences between sexes:
- The pH of male skin is more acidic than that of female skin due to the production of fat.
Many conventional soaps and personal care products have a high pH, typically above 10. While these products can be effective at cleaning, they can also disrupt the skin's natural pH balance. When the skin's pH becomes too alkaline, the skin's protective barrier is weakened, which can result in skin problems such as dryness, irritation, and in more severe cases, dermatitis.
The importance of using products with neutral pH
Dermatologists are increasingly recommending personal cleansing products with a neutral pH or close to the skin's natural pH. This is because they respect the skin's natural balance and help maintain its protective barrier. A pH-neutral shower gel or soap minimizes the risk of skin alterations, leaving the skin clean but not damaged.
Why should you choose a pH neutral shower gel?
Choosing a pH neutral shower gel, such as Home Healthy Home soaps, has multiple benefits:
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Skin barrier protection : As we mentioned, the skin has a slight acidity that helps protect it from external aggressions. By using a product with a neutral pH, you avoid altering this acid mantle, allowing your skin to retain its natural defense capacity.
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Reduce irritation : Products with an alkaline pH can cause irritation, redness, and even rashes. Shower gels with a neutral pH help reduce these problems, especially for people with sensitive skin.
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Improved hydration : Continuous use of alkaline soaps can dry out the skin by removing the natural oils that keep it moisturized. A pH neutral product, on the other hand, helps the skin retain its moisture, preventing the appearance of dryness and flaking.
Home Healthy Home natural soaps: the perfect allies for your skin
At Home Healthy Home , we believe that skin care begins with using products that respect your skin. Our naturally derived soaps are formulated with gentle ingredients and a balanced pH to help maintain the health of your skin. Each soap is carefully crafted to provide a deep cleanse without compromising the skin's protective barrier.
Key ingredients in our soaps
- Organic Olive Oil: Olive oil has been used for centuries in skin care due to its powerful moisturizing, antioxidant and antioxidant properties. soothing . The olive oil used in Home Healthy Home soaps comes from sustainable crops, free of pesticides and harmful chemicals.
- Organic Lavender: Lavender is known not only for its pleasant aroma, but also for its multiple antiseptic, antibacterial, relaxing properties and for its action in healing small wounds or burns and promoting the regeneration of skin cells, helping to keep it soft and healthy.
- Organic Aloe Vera: perfect for its intense hydration, its healing properties and for reducing inflammation, making it ideal for skin prone to irritation or conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Hypoallergenic soaps with neutral pH: perfect for the whole family
Home Healthy Home 's pH neutral hypoallergenic soaps are designed to be safe and effective for all skin types, including the most sensitive. These products are particularly beneficial for:
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People with sensitive skin : skin that tends to get irritated or react to aggressive ingredients find pH-neutral soaps to be a perfect ally to avoid outbreaks of irritation.
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Children and babies : Babies' skin is much more delicate than that of adults, so it requires gentle products that do not alter its natural balance. pH-neutral soaps are ideal for the little ones in the house.
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People with skin allergies : Hypoallergenic products are formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions, making them a safe option for those who suffer from allergies to certain chemical ingredients found in conventional products.
Why choose natural products?
In addition to maintaining pH balance, choosing natural products also means opting for more sustainable and responsible cosmetics. Our soaps are free of sulphates, parabens and other potentially harmful ingredients, making them ideal for those seeking a healthier and more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
Tips to maintain the pH balance of your skin
Maintaining the pH balance of your skin depends not only on the products you use, but also on your lifestyle. Here are some additional tips to take care of your skin:
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Proper hydration : Drinking enough water is essential to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Well-hydrated skin is more resistant to external aggressions and maintains its natural pH.
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Avoid products with alcohol : Many skincare products contain alcohol, which can disrupt the skin's natural pH and dry it out. Opt for products that are alcohol-free or low in alcohol.
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Sun protection : Prolonged exposure to the sun can alter the pH balance of the skin, making it more prone to sunburn and irritation. Always use sunscreen suitable for your skin type.
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Gentle cleansing : avoid using overly abrasive or exfoliating products, as they can alter the skin's acid mantle.
Conclusion: take care of your skin with natural, pH-neutral products
The pH of our skin is a vital indicator of its health and balance. Keeping it within a healthy range is key to avoiding irritation and skin problems. Choosing cleansing products such as Home Healthy Home 's natural soaps is an excellent way to ensure that you are taking care of your skin in a respectful way, protecting its natural barrier and keeping it hydrated.
pH-neutral products are not only a safer option for all skin types, but are also ideal for those looking for a gentler and more effective solution to their daily skincare routine. Don't forget that balance is key: from the ingredients you use to the habits you adopt, taking comprehensive care of your skin is the best way to ensure its long-term health and beauty.
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