Skin Care Briefs

There is a lot of discussion about the skin’s pH (which stands for potential of hydrogen) and how it can help to address skin issues like acne, blemishes or just improve skin health.  Many products filled with chemicals are not going to cure the many skin problems one may have or improve skin’s appearance.  While routine use of products with natural ingredients is one of the best ways to go, it is also important to understand that even with all-natural products, it is the pH level of our face and body that is central to making your skin beautiful.  What then is this level?   It lies between 4.7 and 5.75.  Our body’s pH level is about 7 (it’s the normal pH level for water) and that is considered neutral.  However, our normal skin’s pH level is about 5.5.  Hence it is lower and considered to be slightly acidic.   This is good as this level of acidity works to protect your skin by retaining moisture, leads to soft and smooth skin, imparts a healthy glow to the skin, and keeps harmful bacteria and toxins out.  Above 7, it is considered to be alkaline. Skin that is too alkaline appears dull, leads to dryness, loss of elasticity, sensitivity, irritation or other skin issues.

Coming Next: How to maintain the right pH balance?

HOW TO MAINTAIN THE RIGHT pH BALANCE?

It is essential for your skin’s pH balance to be at the correct level because the slight acidic environment of your skin works as a protective barrier to keep moisture in, absorb beneficial antioxidants and bacteria, toxins and keep infection out. If the skin’s pH is not at the correct level, it means that your skin is likely to be more easily attacked by environmental stressors and prone to acne, dryness, oiliness, itchiness and other irritants. Each of us is different so it is important to know your own skin’s pH level whether it is too acidic or alkaline and bring it down to the correct level for skin, around 5.5. If your skin is healthy and clear, then your skin’s pH is most likely in balance; if your skin is oily and you have acne, blemishes, breakouts regularly, your skin is too acidic; if your skin is prone to dryness, dull, itchy and aging prematurely, your skin is too alkaline. That’s because hormone levels have profound effects on your skin’s pH balance. As you age and your hormone levels decrease, your skin becomes more alkaline. Products that help maintain natural oils and support pH balance can aid in reducing acne breakouts. Therefore, the beauty products you choose for your skin should be neutral or even slightly acidic to bring and maintain your skin’s pH into balance. 

Having acne-prone skin has been one of the most common skin problems that people have to face. 

What is Acne: Acne is a skin condition that causes whiteheads, blackheads, pimples or cysts to form on the skin.

Causes of Acne:

1. Overactive oil glands in the skin and a buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, which leads to inflammation (swelling and redness) in the pores.
2. Hormones are known to be a main cause of acne and is most evident during puberty.  Teenagers are most likely to be impacted by acne.
3. Acne can also be caused by clogged pores – dead skin cells, use of the wrong skincare products that are pore clogging; and oils that fill the pores.
4. Stress can increase certain hormones such as cortisol which typically manages inflammation and immune response.
5. Other contributors to acne are genetics, certain medications. poor hygiene, sun, and unhealthy diet.

Coming Next: Tips for Preventing Acne And Treating Acne

TIPS FOR PREVENTING AND TREATING ACNE  

It is well-known that having acne-prone skin has been one of the most common skin problems that people have to face. Some people have a harder time than others when trying to treat their acne and clear up their skin. Here are some tips that might help.

1. Washing your skin is the most important thing you can do. It helps remove excess surface oils and dead skin cells that can clog your pores. 

2. Make sure to wash your face, remove makeup fully especially before bed to prevent clogged pores and a buildup of oil.  

3. Remember to wash after exercising because sweat can clog your pores and make your acne worse. 

4. Moisturize and apply a pH balanced face serum 

5. If you use skin products, such as lotions or makeup, look for ones that are non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic, which means that they don't clog pores.

6. Eat and maintain a balanced healthy diet

7. Stay hydrated. Water is vital for maintaining your skin’s suppleness and elasticity. 

8. Exercise is very important in that it aids in skin detoxification. Through perspiration, your body is able to eliminate toxins and impurities via the pores. 

9. Get enough sleep. Your body need to rest to do the repair work to skin damage. 

10. Ask your doctor about maintaining good skincare regimen especially in difficult cases.

According to the literature, many foods are overly acidic like sodas, coffee and beer, or prone to producing acids, like meats, dairies, sugars, and highly processed foods. If any of these foods feature regularly in your current diet, some dietary changes could drastically improve your skin’s health.  A diet that helps support your skin’s pH can aid in reducing acne breakouts.  To choose foods and drinks that are best for restoring pH balance, it is most important to know which are either alkaline or acidic. Some examples of foods that are less acidic and more alkaline-forming that you can eat to help your pH balance are fresh fruits, whole grain and vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and onions.  Try also foods rich in chlorophyll, such as asparagus, all leafy greens, parsley, dill, sprouts and zucchini.  It is essential to eat a balanced diet and avoid excess sugar. Drinks that are alkaline include water, dairy, some juices, some teas, and almond milk. Other ways to help correct your skin pH balance are to use natural products that are rich in vitamins and minerals and use lukewarm water to rinse your face since hot water can strip the skin of oil and leave it feeling dry. 

Coming Next: Useful Food Tips

USEFUL FOOD TIPS

Knowing the difference between portion sizes and serving sizes can help you control your weight, amd stay healthy. 

Portion size is the amount that you actually eat at one time. You control your portion size.

Serving size is the amount used to determine a food’s nutritional value.

Tips That Can Help Prevent Overeating:

- Weighing your food portions is a good way to start.

- Weigh each individual amount following the nutrition label recommendation. Save the rest away for later.

- Drink a glass of water before your meal. This will help to fill you up and prevent overeating.

- Avoid temptation at restaurants/outdoor places by splitting entrees with someone and avoid the bread and appetizers.

- Going for that whole bag of chips or snacks? That’s a no…no. Get a bowl and put some in it. Store the rest.