The skin is quite an amazing organ.  It has a natural layer on the epidermis called the “acid mantle”.  This organically, acidic, built-in layer on the skin helps to fight off bacteria, fungus and other contaminants from penetrating farther into the skin, protecting the body from harmful outside predators. 

As we age the acid mantle increases the pH on the skin.  People age 60 and over have a pH of 6.0+ depending on the depletion of their skin cells being able to turnover and produce more skin cells.  As the pH increases, the immunity the skin has to certain bacteria becomes suppressed and illnesses and viruses can arise because of this.

Beyond the acid mantle having an acidic pH of 4.5-5.5 naturally, what else is this thin layer on the epidermis comprised of?  It also contains lipids, fatty acids, lactic acid, amino acids and skin’s own natural moisturizing factor.  When any of these other constituents are altered, it leaves the skin susceptible to unwelcome bacteria, fungus and viruses.

To keep your acid mantle from changing, use products that are close to its pH.  This will enable a warm welcome allowing the skin to continue doing its job with continuity.