Inspirations
What to wash your face with instead of soap?
Many people still use traditional soap for daily facial care. Unfortunately, this isn't always the best choice. Facial skin is different from body skin—it's thinner, more sensitive, and prone to dryness. Using traditional soap with a high pH can disrupt the skin's natural protective barrier . Therefore, it's worth exploring gentler, natural alternatives. Why should you avoid facial soap? Bar soap, especially traditional soap, is alkaline (pH 9-10), while facial skin has a slightly acidic hydrolipidic film (pH around 4.7–5.5). Using soap can: dry out the skin, cause a feeling of tightness, aggravate acne and inflammatory changes, disturb the balance of the skin microbiome. Studies show that regular use of soap with an alkaline pH can lead to disruption of the epidermal barrier and increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL). What can you use to wash your face instead of soap? – TOP 4 gentle face washes Here are proven, natural and effective facial cleansing alternatives from Orientana: A gentle SLS- and soap-free facial wash gel Contains natural surfactants (e.g. glucosides) that do not disturb the skin barrier. Key ingredients of facial cleanser and how they work Natural cleaning substances The formula based on mild surfactants of plant origin effectively removes impurities and sebum without disturbing the skin's natural hydrolipid barrier. Betaine An active substance obtained from sugar beet with moisturizing and soothing properties – it reduces the feeling of tightness, soothes irritations and improves skin elasticity. Gluconolactone (Gluconolactone) A gentle PHA acid that exfoliates dead skin cells, supports skin renewal, and protects against free radicals. Also suitable for sensitive and couperose-prone skin. Date extract (Phoenix Dactylifera Fruit Extract) A source of polysaccharides and antioxidants. Moisturizes, protects against oxidative stress, and improves skin's appearance. Eclipta Prostrata Extract A plant with powerful soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports regeneration and soothes skin inflammation. Green tea leaf water (Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water) Rich in polyphenols, it has antioxidant properties, supports protection against environmental stress and reduces inflammatory reactions. Inulin A natural prebiotic that supports the balance of the skin's microbiome, strengthens its immunity and reduces the tendency to irritation. Fructose A moisturizing sugar belonging to the NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factors) group. It helps maintain the proper level of hydration and skin softness. Facial cleansing foam Perfect for dry, mature, and sensitive skin. They gently remove impurities and makeup. Facial cleansing gel with particles Although it's designed for men's skin, some of us prefer a more vigorous cleanse. There are no harsh particles here, only delicate cellulose particles that dissolve under friction. 4. Oil Makeup Remover (OCM) The "fat dissolves fat" principle works especially well with makeup and sebum. Recommended for dry and dehydrated skin. Natural facial cleansers – how do they work? Natural gels, free from strong detergents like SLS, rely on gentle cleansing ingredients (e.g., Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside). They often also contain: glycerin – moisturizes and prevents dryness, plant extracts (e.g. from dates, rice, aloe) – soothe and nourish, gluconolactone – a delicate PHA acid that has a cleansing and anti-aging effect. Example: Orientana Gentle Facial Wash Gel – Natural Cleansing + Care Who are soap-free products suitable for? Soap-free facial cleansers are suitable for people who: with sensitive, dry, vascular skin, with acne, atopic dermatitis or seborrhea, after cosmetic or dermatological treatments, who want to maintain the balance of the skin microbiome. Undesirable substances in facial cleansing products Soaps—especially traditional bar soaps—contain ingredients that are not suitable for delicate facial skin , especially if used daily. Below, you'll find a list of ingredients that may be irritating or drying , along with a brief explanation of how they work: Sodium Hydroxide A substance necessary for the saponification process of fats. It has a strongly alkaline pH (above 10), which disrupts the natural acidic protective barrier of the skin (pH 4.5–5.5). May cause dryness, burning and a feeling of tightness. Sodium soaps (e.g. Sodium Palmate, Sodium Tallowate, Sodium Cocoate) These are sodium salts of fatty acids (formed by the reaction of fat with NaOH). They cleanse strongly , but at the same time remove natural lipids from the skin , which can lead to excessive dryness, especially in people with sensitive, dry or atopic skin. Strong detergents (e.g. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate – SLS) An aggressive surfactant that removes fat but also damages the lipid layer of the epidermis . May cause irritation, burning sensation, worsening acne and redness. Denatured alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) Sometimes added to liquid soaps. It has a degreasing and astringent effect, which may lead to dryness and, as a result, to compensatory oiliness of the skin . EDTA (e.g. Disodium EDTA, Tetrasodium EDTA) A chelating agent that binds heavy metals in water. May cause skin irritation and increase the penetration of other ingredients – including potential allergens. Summary: Why avoid these ingredients on your face? Facial skin: is thinner than the skin of the body, has a more delicate microbiome and protective barrier, responds faster to irritating stimuli. Daily use of soap with the above-mentioned substances may lead to: excessive dryness of the skin, damage to the hydrolipid coat, overproduction of sebum, intensification of acne and erythematous lesions, faster skin aging. Instead of a typical drugstore facial soap containing such ingredients, it is better to choose a natural soap without dangerous chemicals or completely avoid using it in favor of other alternatives. Instead of traditional soap, choose gentle, natural cleansing products that: do not disturb the skin's pH, do not disturb the hydrolipid barrier, support the microbiome and epidermal regeneration. This type of care is the key to healthy, radiant skin every day. All Orientana facial cleansing cosmetics can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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Effective makeup removal: how to care for your skin with Orientana
Makeup removal isn't just an evening ritual, but the foundation of healthy, radiant skin. Improper cleansing can lead to dryness, clogged pores, and premature aging. In this article, we'll show you how to effectively remove makeup using natural products inspired by Ayurveda and Asian skincare rituals. Why is effective makeup removal the basis of skincare? Cleansing as a condition for healthy skin Throughout the day, skin is exposed to environmental pollutants (smog, dust, heavy metals), sebum, sweat, and makeup. Leaving these substances on the surface of the epidermis promotes bacterial growth and the development of imperfections . As a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018) found, improper cleansing can lead to increased oxidative stress and accelerated aging. Clogging pores and imperfections Makeup residue, especially waterproof products, can block the sebaceous glands . This can result in blackheads , lumps , pimples , and even inflammation. This is especially important for oily and combination skin, which tends to overproduce sebum. Weakening of the hydrolipid barrier Lack of thorough yet gentle makeup removal disrupts the skin's natural protective barrier . The skin becomes more susceptible to irritation , dryness , and the aggressive effects of external factors such as wind and temperature changes. Clinical studies confirm this, showing that carefully selected cleansers can improve the epidermal barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Effectiveness of further care Even the best-chosen serum or cream won't be fully effective if applied to contaminated skin . Clean skin absorbs active ingredients better . According to research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2015), applying cosmetics to uncontaminated skin increases their effectiveness by up to 30%. Different makeup removal methods – which one to choose for healthy skin? Makeup removal isn't just about removing makeup—it's the first and crucial step in facial skincare. If done incorrectly, cosmetic residue, sebum, and environmental pollutants will hinder skin regeneration and the absorption of active ingredients . Learn about the most popular makeup removal methods and why two-step cleansing—especially with oil—is the most effective. Two-step facial cleansing – the best makeup removal method What does it involve? This method, inspired by Asian beauty rituals, consists of two stages: Step 1: cleansing with oil (e.g. natural makeup removal oil) that dissolves oily impurities, makeup and SPF. Step 2: Cleansing with a water-based product (e.g. gel or foam) that removes oil residue and dissolved impurities. Advantages: Thoroughly but gently removes makeup (including waterproof makeup) Does not damage the skin's hydrolipid barrier Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and dry skin No rubbing of the skin required Supports microbiome balance Defects: It requires the use of two products – but the results definitely make up for it. For whom? For anyone who wants to take care of their skin thoroughly, but without irritation – especially recommended for dry, sensitive, mature skin and skin prone to impurities. Micellar water – a quick solution, but not for everyone What does it involve? Micellar waters contain micelles—molecules that bind oil and water. After wetting a cotton pad with the solution and wiping the skin, the micelles dissolve makeup and impurities. Advantages: A quick and convenient way No water required – perfect for traveling A good emergency solution Defects: Requires rubbing of the skin, which may lead to irritation Leaves a layer of surfactants - always wash it off with water Does not cope well with heavier makeup and UV filters With prolonged use, it may dry out or disrupt the epidermal barrier. For whom? For those looking for a quick solution or needing a product for touch-ups during the day – but not as a daily makeup removal method. Makeup remover milk – a gentle classic What does it involve? Makeup removers are emulsions that dissolve makeup and impurities. They are applied with your hands or a cotton pad, then rinsed off with water or a tissue. Advantages: Gentle for skin, especially dry and mature skin Leaves a light protective film Defects: May be too heavy for oily and combination skin I often don't remove waterproof makeup May clog pores if not rinsed thoroughly For whom? For people with dry, atopic, very sensitive skin – but it is worth supporting them with a gentle gel in the second stage. Gloves and makeup removal wipes What does it involve? These are reusable accessories made of microfibers that allow you to remove makeup using only water – without cosmetics. Advantages: Ecological and economical Quick to use No need to use additional cosmetics Defects: They do not thoroughly remove UV filters and waterproof makeup. They require frequent washing and may accumulate bacteria. Mechanical friction can irritate the skin For whom? For minimalists, when traveling, for quick touch-ups – but they should not replace full-fledged makeup removal. Makeup removal wipes – the least recommended method What does it involve? These are disposable wipes soaked in detergents and preservatives. Advantages: Extreme comfort Good for emergency situations (e.g. plane flight) Defects: Strongly irritating to the skin - may contain alcohol, synthetic fragrances and preservatives They leave behind remnants of makeup and impurities They are not environmentally friendly For whom? For emergency use only. Not recommended for daily use. Why choose two-step facial cleansing? Two-step facial cleansing – preferably using a natural makeup removal oil and a mild gel – is the most effective and safe method of makeup removal. Not only does it thoroughly cleanse the skin of makeup and SPF , but it also supports the hydrolipid barrier and prevents imperfections . This daily skincare ritual truly improves the appearance and condition of the skin. Natural oils and makeup removers Orientana offers natural makeup removers that combine traditional plant ingredients with modern biotechnology. Their formulas are inspired by Ayurveda and Asian facial cleansing rituals. Recommended products: Golden Orange Makeup Remover Oil – dissolves makeup, soothes and protects against dryness. Facial cleansing foam - cleanses the skin of residual oil and sebum, moisturizes the skin Tonic – restores the proper pH and prepares the skin for the next stages of care. Step-by-step steps for effective makeup removal Makeup removal oil This first step helps dissolve makeup (even waterproof), sunscreen, and impurities. Massage the oil onto dry skin, then rinse with water or blot with a damp cotton pad. Why is it worth it? Does not disturb the hydrolipid barrier, Contains natural oils and extracts from Ayurvedic plants, Strengthens the skin and has a soothing effect. Cleansing foam or gel (water stage) This is the second, crucial step in cleansing, which removes residual oil, sweat, and water-soluble impurities. Choose products with natural ingredients, free of SLS/SLES, that cleanse without drying the skin. What should you look for in the composition? Mild plant-based cleansing agents (e.g. Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside), Plant extracts (e.g. aloe, rose, ashwagandha, cucumber), Moisturizing humectants (e.g. glycerin, betaine, trehalose), Soothing additives (e.g. panthenol, allantoin). Why is it worth it? Removes remnants of makeup and oil, Refreshes and prepares the skin for the next stages of care, Does not disturb the hydrolipid barrier, Helps cleanse pores without causing any tightening effect. Tonic Finally, it's worth restoring the skin's optimal pH. Orientan Rose Tonic not only tones, but also soothes, moisturizes, and supports the regeneration of the skin's microbiome. Why is it worth it? Restores the skin's pH balance, Contains rose water, hyaluronic acid and natural prebiotics, It soothes and prepares the skin for further care steps. What to avoid when removing makeup? Makeup removal isn't just the first step in your evening skincare routine, but the foundation for healthy skin. However, if done incorrectly, it can do more harm than good. Here's what you should absolutely avoid to avoid worsening your skin's condition: Strong detergents (SLS, SLES and their derivatives) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are cheap and effective surfactants that produce high levels of foam. Unfortunately, their intense cleansing action leads to: removal of the skin's natural lipid barrier, dryness, irritation and even micro-damage to the epidermis, intensification of problems with sensitive and vascular skin. Also avoid: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, TEA-Lauryl Sulfate, PEGs in large quantities. Instead, choose: mild cleansers such as Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate. Rubbing the skin with a cotton pad or towel Mechanical friction, especially when using dry or rough cotton pads, leads to: microdamage to the stratum corneum of the epidermis, irritation and redness, stretching the skin – especially around the delicate eye area. Instead of rubbing: gently apply the cotton pad soaked in the product to your eyelid and wait until the makeup dissolves, use oils that easily emulsify dirt without the need for scrubbing, Dry your face with a cotton or microfiber towel, applying it point by point, without rubbing. Skipping toner or toning essence Tonic is not just an “optional” step – it has an important function: restores the proper pH of the skin after cleansing, calms the skin after contact with water, moisturizes and prepares the skin to receive serum and cream. Effects of skipping tonic: feeling of tightness and dryness, microbiome disorders, weakening the effect of subsequent cosmetics. Washing your face with hot water Water temperature too high: dilates and weakens blood vessels, promotes the formation of redness and permanent spider veins, dehydrates the skin and intensifies dryness. Instead: use lukewarm or cool water – especially for vascular and sensitive skin. Using makeup removal wipes Although convenient for travel, they are not suitable for everyday use: they often contain alcohol, preservatives and fragrances, they only smear dirt and makeup on the skin's surface, may cause irritation and allergic reactions. Alternative: You can remove waterproof makeup more effectively and without irritation by using oil and a mild gel/foam. Makeup removal with only one product (no oil or water step) A common mistake is to use only micellar water or only gel, which results in: inaccurate removal of makeup, SPF and impurities, accumulation of cosmetic residues in pores, increased risk of blackheads, inflammation and dryness. The best approach? Two-phase cleansing: first oil (or balm), then a gentle water-based product – foam or gel. Recommended Orientana cosmetics: Golden Orange Makeup Remover Oil Facial cleansing gel Facial cleansing foam Soothing Tonic Have questions about natural makeup removal? Drop us a line or leave a comment below!
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WHAT KIND OF COMPLEXION DO I HAVE?
Each of us can answer the question what kind of skin I have. But are we sure? How are individual skin types defined and how to check which one you have – you will learn this from the article below. What are the skin types? Basic skin types are divided into four main categories, plus additional types related to specific skin problems or the aging process. what skin do I have? learn the basic types Normal skin It is characterized by even hydration, elasticity and no visible imperfections. Pores are small and the skin responds well to most cosmetics. Dry skin Thin, prone to drying, with a feeling of tightness and flaking. Requires intensive moisturization and protection from external factors. Oily skin Excessive sebum production causes shine, enlarged pores and a tendency to breakouts. It requires seborrhea regulation. Combination skin Combination of dry skin (e.g. cheeks) and oily skin (T-zone: forehead, nose, chin). Requires different care. Additional skin types Sensitive skin – reacts with redness, itching or burning to cosmetics or environmental factors. Capillary skin – visible dilated blood vessels, prone to irritation. Acne skin – dominated by pimples, blackheads and excessive sebum production, often requires dermatological consultation. Mature skin – manifests itself through wrinkles, loss of firmness and irregular facial contours associated with age. In practice, skin type may combine the features of the basic type with additional problems (e.g. oily skin with vascular elements). The key is to adapt care to the individual needs of the skin, but do I already know what type of skin I have? No skin type is a given. It is often genetically determined, but it can change with age. Skin type also depends on how you care for it, your diet, hormone levels, and lifestyle. What is my complexion? Tests To determine your skin type, you can use online tests or analyze your symptoms yourself. Here are the key methods: Tests with a dermatologist A dermatologist asks a series of questions and observes the client's skin to select the right care. How does a dermatologist recognize your skin type? During the consultation, she asks a few simple questions that help assess the condition and type of your skin. The key is how your skin reacts to everyday factors - such as cleansing, weather changes or natural physiological processes. On this basis, you can accurately select the right care. The first signal that a dermoconsultant pays attention to is the skin's reaction after washing. If you feel a strong feeling of tightness, dryness or burning after cleansing, this may indicate dry or sensitive skin that requires gentle, moisturising formulas and protection from external factors. On the other hand, if your complexion quickly starts to shine and you do not feel any discomfort, you probably have oily or combination skin - the kind that produces excess sebum and needs to regulate sebum secretion. The next step is to observe the visibility of pores and the tendency to blemishes. If you notice enlarged pores, especially in the T-zone (i.e. on the forehead, nose and chin), and breakouts appear regularly - this may indicate oily or acne skin. It is also worth paying attention to whether skin changes intensify cyclically, for example before menstruation - this may indicate hormonal acne. On the other hand, skin without visible pores, with a smooth structure and no tendency to breakouts, often turns out to be dry or normal skin. The skin's behavior in different weather conditions is also assessed. If your skin reacts with irritation, redness or burning to frost, wind or sudden changes in temperature, you most likely have sensitive or vascular skin. Such skin needs soothing cosmetics that strengthen the protective barrier and seal blood vessels. On the other hand, if your skin shines intensely in a humid environment, this indicates overactive sebaceous glands, i.e. oily or combination skin. Thanks to these simple questions and observations, the dermatologist is able to determine not only the basic skin type – dry, oily, combination or normal – but also its needs and tendencies, such as sensitivity, tendency to dehydration, acne or overactive blood vessels. This is the first step towards conscious and effective care and finding out what kind of skin I have. what skin type do I have - Self-analysis Determining your skin type yourself is a key step in proper skin care. Observing your skin's reaction to various factors, such as washing or using cosmetics, allows you to precisely select the right care products. Observation of the skin after washing One of the easiest ways to analyze your skin is to observe how it reacts after washing your face with a gentle cleanser, without using creams or toners. After about 30 minutes, you can assess how your skin reacts to cleansing: Dry skin – after washing, there is a feeling of tightness, tension and discomfort. The skin is often dull, rough and may flake. The lack of natural moisture makes it look tired and prone to irritation. Oily skin – quickly begins to shine, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). Pores are clearly visible, and the skin may appear to have a thicker, more oily film on the surface. It is often accompanied by blackheads and a tendency to imperfections. Combination skin – is characterized by different areas with different properties. The T-zone quickly becomes oily, while the cheeks can be dry and tight. Requires balanced care, adapted to different parts of the face. Normal skin – shows no signs of discomfort. The skin is smooth, elastic and naturally moisturized. The lack of dryness and excessive shine makes it look healthy and radiant. Skin reaction to cosmetics The next step in skin analysis is to observe the skin's reaction to various cosmetics, especially those containing active ingredients. Some skin types may require more gentle care, while others will tolerate stronger ingredients. Sensitive/vascular skin – reacts with redness, burning, and even itching to aggressive substances such as alcohol, retinoids, and some preservatives. It may have a tendency to burst blood vessels, which manifests itself as visible "spider veins" on the cheeks and nose. Requires the use of mild, hypoallergenic cosmetics. The Kali Musli series will be perfect here. Acne skin – is prone to frequent breakouts, blackheads and inflammation. It can be oily, but also dry due to the use of aggressive anti-acne products. It requires careful care, regulating sebum secretion and supporting skin regeneration. What is my complexion? Test with blotting paper At home, you can perform a simple test that will allow you to find out what type of skin you have. All you need are facial cleansing products and a thin tissue or tissue paper divided into layers. Here are five steps that will help you define your facial skin type: Thoroughly cleanse your face of any makeup residue and wash it with a gentle cosmetic. We recommend a makeup remover oil and a face wash foam. Gently dry your face with a clean towel, without rubbing. Do not apply any cosmetics to your face and wait 30 minutes. During this time, do not do any strenuous exercise or go outside. Let your skin breathe ? After 30 minutes, gently place a tissue or one layer of tissue on your face. Lightly pat the tissue onto your skin and wait a minute. Remove the tissue paper and hold it up to the light. You will see where the most sebum has been produced on your face. If there are no traces of sebum on the tissue paper, you have dry or normal skin. When the traces of sebum form a visible letter T, your skin is combination. If the tissue paper is covered with sebum in many places or over the entire surface, you have oily skin. Pay attention to seasonal changes, because combination skin can become dry in the winter or oily in the summer. Regular observation of the skin allows for a better understanding of its needs and the selection of appropriate cosmetics, which translates into a healthy appearance and everyday comfort. What skin type do I have - additional tips Mature skin is a type of skin that usually appears after the age of 35, although its features may appear earlier, depending on lifestyle, exposure to UV radiation, oxidative stress or hormonal balance. Characteristic symptoms are wrinkles , both facial and deeper, which first appear around the eyes, mouth and forehead. The skin loses firmness, elasticity and density, which can lead to facial contour disorders. This is often accompanied by a loss of radiance , dryness, roughness and uneven color. Capillary skin, on the other hand, is manifested by the presence of dilated blood vessels , most often in the cheeks, nose and chin. The skin is sensitive, prone to redness, which may appear under the influence of changes in temperature, emotions, spicy foods or the use of inappropriate cosmetics. In the advanced stage, there may be persistent redness and a tendency to form telangiectasia (so-called spider veins). Capillary skin requires delicate care, strengthening the walls of blood vessels and protecting against irritants. If the results are ambiguous, it is worth consulting a dermatologist or cosmetologist. You should always also take into account the age of the person whose skin type you are diagnosing. Oily skin will behave differently in a teenager than in a mature woman. Natural cosmetics for different skin types Natural cosmetics, based on plant extracts, oils and ingredients of mineral origin, are increasingly popular due to their mildness, high skin tolerance and multi-directional action. Properly selected natural ingredients can effectively support the needs of every type of skin, improving its condition, balance and appearance. For dry skin, strongly moisturizing and lubricating ingredients work best, which help rebuild the skin's hydrolipid barrier. Among them, it is worth mentioning shea butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter) , avocado oil , argan oil and almond oil - rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins A and E, perfectly soften the skin and protect it from moisture loss. Hyaluronic acid of plant origin and aloe additionally intensify hydration and soothe the feeling of tightness. Oily and acne-prone skin requires ingredients that regulate sebum secretion, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Tea tree oil, niacinamide (vitamin B3) and green tea extract work great here. These substances help cleanse pores, reduce imperfections and soothe inflammation without damaging the skin's natural protective barrier. Sensitive and vascular skin requires soothing ingredients that strengthen blood vessels and reduce redness. In this group, the most commonly used are kali musli extract, as well as wild rose oil and panthenol . These are ingredients with soothing, anti-inflammatory and microcirculation-supporting effects that improve skin comfort and reduce hyperreactivity. For mature skin, ingredients with regenerating, firming and antioxidant effects will be ideal. Pomegranate oil , snail slime , coenzyme Q10 , vitamin C and extracts from adaptogens such as Reishi or Rhodiola rosea help smooth wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and protect it from free radicals. Natural care allows you to safely and effectively take care of the needs of different skin types. The key to success is the conscious selection of active ingredients that address specific skin problems while supporting its natural defense and regeneration functions. Once you have determined what type of skin you have, it is worth focusing on the selection of cosmetics. Remember about cosmetics for cleansing and toning the skin. We know from experience that these steps are often omitted. Choose the right serum and cream. Enjoy conscious care.
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What is it about skin pH?
What is pH? The pH of a solution is indicated on a numerical scale from 0 to 14. Anything below 7 (neutral pH) is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is considered alkaline. It is important to know that although the differences between pH values may seem small in classical mathematics, the pH scale is logarithmic, not linear. This means that a one-unit increase in pH means a ten-fold decrease in the concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution. Therefore, a pH of 3 is 100 times more acidic than a pH of 5. Skin pH The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Its main function is to create a barrier between the outside world and protect the body from factors such as chemicals or pollution. Maintaining the skin in good condition guarantees its proper functioning, but it is very easy to disrupt it. Many factors affect the functionality of the skin - one of them is the disruption of the pH of its surface. The pH of the skin is influenced by diet, lifestyle, hygiene habits and the care products used. The acid mantle of the epidermis plays a key role, working with natural skin components such as ceramides, cholesterol, enzymes, sweat and even sebum produced by our skin to protect its surface and lower layers from external factors. What is a good skin pH? pH is a measure of the pH of a solution – the lower the pH, the more acidic it is. Skin pH is between 4.5 and 6.0, which means it is slightly acidic. The pH value of the skin surface varies depending on age and body location. Like many other things, our skin is constantly evolving: it changes depending on hormones, age, and also the area of the epidermis. The skin on your legs is not the same as your armpits or face. To provide an ideal environment for natural microflora, the acidity of the skin must remain undisturbed. Does skin pH matter? The pH value of the skin is important for its appearance and condition. It is essential for maintaining its proper functions and supports its natural microbiome. Small changes in the skin's pH do not affect its functioning, for example when using exfoliants with AHA or BHA acids with a pH of 3.4 to 3.9. This helps to exfoliate or remove dead skin cells from the skin's surface. It is inappropriate to use products with an extremely acidic or alkaline pH (less than 2.5 or more than 8). They can disrupt the skin's acid mantle and damage it. Too low or too high a pH can lead to problems such as dryness, acne, irritation, and even hypersensitivity to environmental factors. In this case, the top layer of the skin will not be able to act as a protective barrier. How can you check your skin pH? Unfortunately, there is no easy way to accurately measure skin pH at home, so it is always worth consulting a dermatologist if you have skin problems - they can use a skin pH meter or conduct a liquid pH test. There are also various ways to test your skin pH and see what it is. However, it is important to remember that not every test can give an accurate reading. Specialist test strips for home use - they are available in paper form to stick to the skin. What disturbs the skin's pH? Skin care should be adapted to its pH. Using too alkaline cosmetics, such as traditional soaps, can disrupt its natural balance. It is worth using facial cosmetics that do not disturb the skin's natural pH. Hello Daktyl delicate facial wash gel is an ideal choice for all skin types. What care at what pH? It is recommended to use gentle, pH-balanced products that will help maintain a healthy skin microbiome. Use gentle cleansers with a pH level of around 5.5, which, in addition to removing dirt and impurities, provide regenerative and moisturizing properties, such as Hello Daktyl Gentle Face Wash . Also, use a toner - the skin's pH will probably not be at the right level after cleansing or exfoliating. Toners can help restore the skin's natural acidity balance, thus protecting the acid mantle. An example of a milky toner that is ideal for this function is Hello Daktyl Revitalizing Toning Lotion . Don't forget to moisturize - after cleansing and toning, apply a serum or moisturizer to protect the skin's protective barrier and maximize the absorption of the product. Remember that even if you have combination or oily skin, you should still moisturize. Just be sure to choose a product that does not weigh down the skin or clog pores. Treat your skin with care – don’t over-exfoliate, which helps remove impurities and unclog pores, giving you a more radiant complexion. Just be careful not to overdo it, as it can dry out your skin and throw it off balance. Monitor your skin and adjust the frequency of exfoliation to its needs.
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