March 4-2013-Are you opting for a more balanced lifestyle in 2013? Don’t forget to include your skin. Achieving the perfect pH balance will ease dry skin and enhance the effectiveness of anti-ageing products, according to a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology.
It found that over eight years, women with alkaline skin experienced more fine lines, than those with an acidic balance. Your skin has a pH balance between 4.5 and 6.0 with the help of an acid mantle-a protective, acidic environment on the skin, explains Dr Varun Katyal, consultant dermatologist and anti-ageing specialist, The Skin Centre, New Delhi.
If the pH of your skin goes over 6.0, then the imbalance can let bacteria and pollutants in, leading to dryness and irritation. Also, instead of shedding dead skin cells, it tends to hold on to them.
Alkaline soaps are majorly responsible for altering the pH of the skin, (the pH range can reach between 9 and 11), explains Prevention columnist and dermatologist, Dr Rekha Sheth, Head, Yuva Clinics, Mumbai. Keep your skin’s pH balance in check: choose a gentle pH balanced cleanser, moisturise often and avoid very hot showers.
INDIA TODAY
