So, what is the Acid Mantle and what does it do?
The Acid Mantle is the skin's natural protection and is not really understood by many. It is formed from a mixture of the skin's natural moisturising factor (NMF), the fatty substance, sebum, which is secreted from the sebaceous glands and sweat, which is excreted from the eccrine sweat glands.
The Acid Mantle has a naturally acid pH of around 5.5 and it helps to protect the skin against the harmful bacteria, some good bacteria will not be destroyed and live naturally at this pH level. This is know as the skin's natural microbiome.
The Acid Mantle is not only our front line of defense against bacteria,it is also a defence against viruses, toxins, pollutants, dust,or pollen.
If the Acid Mantle is affected by external chemicals, such as soap or stripping astringent lotion. This can cause the skin to become irritated, and even drying the skin out. This causes the skin to result in flakiness and even cracking, as its removal will allow Transdermal Moisture Loss (TML). This becomes more obvious as our skin ages - when the sebum production starts to slow down, causing the skin to dry out quicker.
There are conditions during pregnancy or menopause which will sometimes increase the production of sebum, this may cause a condition known as acne, such as menopausal acne, for example. Yes, acne - it's not just a teen problem, as it is associated with hormonal imbalances or changes,which is why it can occur at these stages in the life journey not just liked to puberty.
Back to the drying skin, skin cracking can often be seen in the hands of hairdressers or cleaners who do are not wear gloves when using stripping or caustic chemicals - this can become a condition known as contact dermatitis.
So, remember to always wear gloves when using chemicals with your hands and ensure that you keep your facial skin at a balanced pH of 5.5, - so, no strong, astringent products, just re-balance your facial skin with a pH balanced lotion filled with active ingredients to support the skin after cleansing, then apply your serum (while the skin is still moist) and your moisturiser on top to help to protect your skin. Ensure that you use an SPF cream or lotion to protect your skin from UV rays. in the form of within your moisturiser or a separate product on top of your moisturiser, but before your make up application.
The Acid Mantle is a layer that is the foundation of a healthy skin, and it is essential for all of us to tale care of it and respect it, as it’s fundamental if you want healthy. hydrated and glowing skin.
Love,
Shirley xx
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