What does pH stand for in a skincare context?

In the context of skincare, pH stands for Potential Hydrogen. This term represents the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, which determines its acidity or alkalinity. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with lower values indicating acidity, neutral value at 7, and higher values indicating alkalinity.

Understanding pH is crucial in skincare because the skin has its own natural pH level, typically around 4.5 to 5.5, which is slightly acidic. This acidity helps maintain the skin's barrier function and protects it from harmful bacteria and pollutants. Products that are too alkaline can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to skin issues such as dryness, irritation, or acne. Hence, knowledge of pH is essential for both formulating skincare products and selecting appropriate ones for individual skin types.