The dermatology literature reports various skin pH values as being ‘normal’. All reported skin pH values fall in the acidic range, but with a broad sweep of values ranging from pH 4.0 to pH 7.0.

Most recently, it has been found that the average pH of skin is about 4.7 (and always definitely less than pH 5.0).

Application of skin cleansers, including plain tap water, in some cases, shifts the pH of the skin from below 5.0 to 6.0 or 8.0. This has significant impact on the skin’s health and barrier function.

Skin which is routinely maintained at pH levels of 5.0 or below has better barrier function, greater moisturization, and better structure than skin which is routinely maintained at pH levels higher than this.

Also, at lower pH levels, skin necessary bacteria are more likely to remain in the skin. At higher pH levels, these bacteria are lost, decreasing the integrity of the skin.

Chemistry aside, why does this matter to you?

It matters for several reasons. One, because it suggests that you should also focus on keeping your skin slightly acidic, in order to keep your skin as healthy as possible. One way of doing this would be to include (and use) a [tag-ice]toner[/tag-ice] in your daily face-washing regimen.

Application of skin cleansers will take the skin’s pH levels up to 8.0 or higher. If you do not use a toner, the skin will remain at this level for some time after cleansing. This is undesirable, because it can lead to loss of barrier function and structural integrity.

Using a toner after cleansing returns the skin to its preferred acidic pH, which means better looking (and better behaving) skin for you.

If you don’t use toner each time you cleanse, start immediately. You will see a difference in the health and beauty of your skin.