What is skin pH and why does it matter?
pH is a measure of acidity on a scale from 0 to 14. The surface of our skin is naturally slightly acidic, and that plays a crucial role in keeping it healthy and functioning properly. This natural acidity supports the barrier enzymes that build and maintain the lipids between skin cells, while creating the ideal environment for the microbiome. An optimal pH also means lower transepidermal water loss — in practice, less moisture escaping from the skin.
When the skin's pH rises, those enzymes stop working properly, lipids break down and the microbiome is thrown off balance. An unbalanced pH is what causes that uncomfortable tight feeling after washing, heightened sensitivity and, ultimately, dry, sensitive skin.
What disrupts the skin's natural pH?
Several things we encounter every day can knock the skin's pH out of balance. Among the biggest culprits are alkaline soaps and cleansers, which dry the skin out and irritate it unnecessarily. Hard or alkaline water can raise the pH temporarily with nothing more than a quick rinse of the face. Over-cleansing and harsh scrubs are a problem too, since they physically damage the protective barrier. Active ingredients such as strong acids or high-strength retinoids can also upset this natural balance. With age — and if you have atopic or acne-prone skin — the skin becomes even more vulnerable to all of this.
Skincare that respects your natural pH
The right routine will help you tackle these problems. Here's a simple daily routine using Ph.Doctor products, formulated to respect the skin's naturally balanced pH and support its protective barrier.
Gentle cleansing, suitable even for sensitive skin
To remove make-up, use the osmotic Osmogel Precleanser, which gently lifts away sunscreen and make-up residue without disrupting the skin's natural pH or drying it out. For the second cleansing step, or for your morning routine, the Gentle facial cleansing emulsion is ideal — it's designed to leave skin soft and supple. After rinsing, pat your skin dry and apply your moisturiser while it's still slightly damp.
Replenishing lipids and calming the skin
For hydration, use the Lipid facial cream, a moisturiser for dry, sensitive skin. Its rich formula is packed with lipids that support the epidermal barrier, along with soothing ingredients for reactive skin. It works for both day and night use and helps restore the skin's natural balance.
Everyday protection, all year round
Use SUNSET AR SPF 50 day cream every single day — it offers very high protection along with an AR complex that targets redness. For outdoor activities and sport, go for SUNSET SPORT SPF 50+, with its water- and sweat-resistant formula.