Understanding your skin and the Acid Mantle

The skin is the largest organ of the body with multiple layers, structural proteins, and vital components. It's important to understand the inner workings of this dynamic organ when using topical skincare and how it will impact your results.

The outer protective layer of the skin is called the Acid Mantle. The Acid Mantle is made up of sebum (free fatty acids) released from the skin’s sebaceous glands, which mixes with lactic and amino acids from sweat to create the skin’s natural pH, which should be slightly acidic at about 5.5.

Many things can interfere with the delicate balance of the skin’s Acid Mantle. The skin can become more acidic in response to the environment and daily life challenges. The delicate balance can be upset by everything that comes into contact with the skin including our skin care products, smoke and air pollution, water, sun and changes in air temperature. This can contribute to the breakdown of the Acid Mantle, disrupting the skin’s ability to protect itself.

Maintaining the Optimal pH of the Acid Mantle

Cleansers

Acids

Oils

Antioxidants

Sunscreen