Most people have heard of pH levels in science class, but few realize how important this simple scale is for healthy skin. Your skin’s pH—short for “potential of hydrogen”—refers to how acidic or alkaline the surface of your skin is. On a scale of 0 to 14, your skin’s ideal pH hovers around 4.5 to 5.5, which is slightly acidic. Why does that matter? Because this acidity forms part of your skin’s “acid mantle”—a protective film that helps keep moisture in and harmful bacteria out.

When the skin’s pH is disrupted—due to harsh cleansers, overly alkaline water, or aggressive treatments—it can throw everything off balance. Common signs of pH imbalance include irritation, dryness, breakouts, or increased sensitivity. Over time, a compromised acid mantle weakens your skin barrier, making it more vulnerable to environmental stressors and slower to heal.

To keep your skin in its sweet spot, choose gentle cleansers and pH-balanced products. Avoid over-exfoliating and always follow up with hydrating, soothing ingredients like aloe, squalane, or hyaluronic acid. At Bailin Botanicals, we formulate our products to work in harmony with your skin’s natural pH, helping restore balance and resilience from the very first use.