How to tell if your skins ph is healthy

The health of your body is directly linked to maintaining the right balance between acidity and alkalinity.

The acidity or alkalinity of a solution is measured on a scale of 0 to 14 – the lower the pH (potential hydrogen), the more acidic the solution is. The higher the pH, the more alkaline the solution is. A solution that is neutral (neither acid nor alkaline) is 7. Human blood is slightly alkaline, with a normal pH level of between 7.35 and 7.45. However, the skin’s pH is slightly lower at about 5.5 meaning it is slightly acidic.

This slightly acidic nature of the skin is an important protective mechanism which provides the first line of defense against germs and bacteria. Maintaining the correct pH balance of the skin is essential to reduce redness and irritation and to minimize the occurrence of eczema, psoriasis, acne, dryness and other chronic skin conditions. Many soaps and cosmetics are too basic for the skin and have the potential to cause dryness and irritation. 

Internal pH also plays an important role in skin health and appearance. Naturopaths recognize the ill effects of an acidic diet and its contribution to systemic inflammation and many chronic conditions. We are all unique and our individual pH adaptation does differ a little but a general guideline to maintaining the correct internal balance is to aim for 80% alkalizing food and 20% acidic food. A diet high in alkalizing vegetables and nutritious greens powders will quickly bring the body back into balance.

TOP TIPS TO BALANCE YOUR SKIN:

• Eat plenty of nutritious alkaline foods
• Reduce/remove sugar and processed food
• Eliminate harsh soaps and cleansers
• Choose skincare that is pH tested and high in nutrients and antioxidants
• Avoid/minimize exposure to chemicals & toxins in all aspects of life – food, skincare, pollution etc
• Use tepid water to clean your face rather than cold
• Reduce emotional stress
• Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke