Guide · 3 min read
What does pH 5.5 mean, and why does it matter for skin?
The skin's surface is slightly acidic. What the pH 5.5 you see on packaging means.
slightly acidic
pH in brief
The pH scale runs from 0 to 14. 7 is neutral, below it is acidic, above it is alkaline. Classic bar soaps usually sit on the alkaline side.
The skin's surface is acidic
The surface of the skin's outermost layer is slightly acidic; this is called the acid mantle. Careful measurements in 2006 found a natural skin surface pH of 4.7 on average. In the same study, people whose skin pH was below 5 had more hydrated, less flaky skin.
pH 5.5 on the label
A cleanser with a pH close to the skin's changes this slightly acidic surface less while you wash. That matters especially for the face and hands, which are washed several times a day.
In practice
- 1For your face and body, choose a gel with a skin-friendly pH instead of soap.
- 2If your skin feels tight after washing, try changing your cleanser.
- 3Don't skip moisturizing after cleansing.
Related to this guide
Sources
- 1.Lambers et al., skin surface pH is below 5, Int J Cosmet Sci 2006
- 2.Ananthapadmanabhan et al., cleansers and skin lipids, 2013
This article is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If a complaint persists or gets worse, see a dermatologist.