THE GUIDE
A GUIDE TO SKIN PH AND CLEANSERS
The importance or hype of understanding physiological skin pH and how it relates to selecting skincare products is a heated topic. We spoke about skin microbiome in a previous post evaluating Mother Dirt’s AO+ Mist but did we really assess the importance of skin pH and range? These days, discussions regarding the benefits of balancing one’s skin pH are rampant. But what does that really mean? Do we even know what is the optimum pH range for our skin? Is it really important to select a cleanser that works with your skin’s pH or is this marketed hype just a trend? We wanted to uncover the real scientific truth and review whether pH really helps, hinders, or provides a placebo effect for skincare routine. So here is our guide to skin pH and cleansers.
Before we tap into ideal physiological skin pH and perform a review of varying cleansers, we need to understand the basics.
So here are some Questions (
) and Answers (
):
: What is pH?: The term “pH” stands for the Latin terms pondus hydrogenii (quantity of hydrogen) or potentia hydrogenii (power of hydrogen). It’s a measure of the hydrogen ion (H+) concentration. From this, we may be able to determine if a water-based solution is acidic or basic (alkaline).: Huh?: It is the ability for a water-based solution to donate a hydrogen ion (as acidic) or absorb a hydrogen ion/donate a hydroxide ion (as basic), according to the pH logarithmic formula: pH = -log10 [H+]: Can non-aqueous (non-water-based or anhydrous) solutions have a pH?: If we base it on the traditional pH logarithmic formula, the answer to that is no. An anhydrous (substance containing no water) solution or an ingredient in anhydrous solutions do not have a pH. The pH of a solution has no significance if the water is not present as there is no hydrogen ion to donate or absorb. However, determining the pH of an anhydrous solution would be possible by adding water to the anhydrous solution.: Can non-aqueous (non-water-based or anhydrous) solutions have a pH?: If we base it on the traditional pH logarithmic formula, the answer to that is no. An anhydrous (substance containing no water) solution or an ingredient in anhydrous solutions do not have a pH. The pH of a solution has no significance if the water is not present as there is no hydrogen ion to donate or absorb. However, determining the pH of an anhydrous solution would be possible by adding water to the anhydrous solution.: What is the pH scale?: 0 to 14: What do these numbers mean?: The lower the number, the more acidic. The higher the number, the more basic or alkaline. With 7.0 being neutral. These values are based upon room temperature conditions.: What is a pH of 4.5, 7.4, 10.6?: 4.5 = acidic, 7.4 = neutral, and 10.6 = basic.
So what is the ideal physiological skin pH?
This is definitely a loaded question, am I right?
First, the pH of our skin is variable. Based on varying studies, the pH can be broad and encompass a range between 4.0 (acidic) to 7.0 (neutral).
Why does our skin pH vary?
Our skin pH is affected by numerous endogenous factors and exogenous factors.
Endogenous (Internal) Factors
- Age
- Anatomical site
- Genetics
- Ethnic Origin
Exogenous (External) Factors
- Cosmetics, soaps, detergents
- Skin Irritants
- Topical Antibacterials
- Sweat
- Sebum
In a 2006 study of 330 participants, the average pH was between 4.93 to 5.12. And in general, skin surface pH is generally described at around 4.7, or to put it simply, below 5.0 with no atmospheric disturbance or affecting environmental factors. The 2006 study also assessed skin microflora and determined the following:
- pH 4-4.5 (acidic): Keeps bacterial flora attached to the skin
- pH 8-9 (basic or alkaline): Promotes the dispersal of bacterial flora from the skin.
So based on varying studies, we know that it is ideally:
Recommended to select cleansers at a physiological pH between 4.5-6.5 (or 5-5.5).
In fact, the benefits of acidifying skin surface by way of pH showed a reduction in inflammatory responses, acne, barrier function recovery, and prevention of epidermal hyperproliferation.
But this also depends on your physiological skin goal and the camp that you follow: whether to follow the skin microflora trend or not.
Therefore, it is important to know that most cleansing products range within the following pH:
- Shampoo: 4.5-5.5
- Soap: 9-10 (basic or alkaline)
And what about water? Well, water does play a critical role. Obviously.
Let me explain.
We always assume water is approximately a pH of 7.0. But that may or may not be true. Depending on your general area, the pH of water may even be as high as 8.0. Therefore, a slightly higher pH in water may cause your actual skin pH to be higher as well.
Make sense?
Do you know what the pH is of your cleanser of choice? If the pH of our skin may be the answer to a host of obvious skin problems, wouldn’t it be second nature to expect brands to include the actual pH of their products on the label?
One would think so.
Sadly, finding the pH level or range of a product is like finding a needle in a haystack. In fact, most brands originating from the United States and Europe rarely provide this information, unless it provides some form of beneficial scientific support in their product claims. Case in point, the Drunk Elephant: Beste™ No. 9 Jelly Cleanser with a touted pH of 5.5. However, if we look to Asia, there seems to be more brands and products that provide pH information within their labeling practices. So, hopefully, the US and Europe will follow Asia’s lead.
The transparency of adding pH to labels seems to be contingent on the brand. At the moment, no regulatory body is requiring that companies provide a product’s pH within their individual labels. Therefore, it is up to the discretion of the brand to provide this to consumers. In my opinion, a minimum requirement of the actual pH or pH range is a must for cleansers and products used for treatments. But I digress…
Overall, it would be impossible to provide a complete review of all brands and cleansers which provide a pH. Therefore, I’ve reviewed some selected brands and websites which looked at the following:
- Product: Name of product
- Ingredient(s): Full ingredient list.
- pH (4.5-6.5): Actual pH.
- Claims: Stemming from the pH.
- Transparency: Whether the claims (if any) are substantiated
- Transparent:
- Not transparent:
- Partly transparent (transparent but may be lacking some components):
- Transparent:
- Bottom Line: Our overall opinion based on our research.
Ok, let’s look at the products!
THE BRANDS AND PRODUCTS
Product: Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser
Ingredient(s): *Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, glycerin, *vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil, water, sucrose laurate, *adansonia digitata (baobab) seed oil, avena sativa (oat) kernel oil, sucrose palmitate, sucrose stearate, pelargonium graveolens flower (geranium) oil, tocopherol (sunflower-derived vitamin e), anthemis nobilis flower (chamomile) oil, avena sativa (oat) kernel extract, lactobacillus ferment.
*certified organic ingredients
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.25
Claims
Our prebiotic oil to milk cleanser is ideal for when you want to wash your face without stripping it of moisture! Centered around fermented oat, this microbiome-friendly and pH balancing cleanser supports soft and replenished skin. When massaged onto face with water, oil transforms to milk, allowing for an easy rinse off that leaves skin fresh and clean!
- When you want to “wash” your face without stripping it of moisture
- Supporting a healthy microbiome and diverse natural flora on skin
- Delivering a gentle and non-disruptive cleanser with an ideal pH range of ~5.25
- Leaving skin feeling soft and supple.
Our skin’s protective acid mantle has a slightly acidic pH level of about 5-5.5. Unfortunately, most cleansers and soaps have a higher alkaline reading of about pH 7-9. Alkaline cleansers can dry out the skin and weaken the skin’s physical barriers and structural integrity. The result is that we are more at risk for thinning skin and increased aging signs, breakouts, and inflammation.
Our cleanser has a pH of ~5.25 which allows it to work in conjunction with our acid mantle to gently balance the microbiome and replenish the barrier.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Cocokind Oil to Milk Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.25. Overall, the product claims based on this specific pH were substantiated.
Product: Drunk Elephant Beste™ No. 9 Jelly Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Propanediol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Glycolipids, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Lauryl Glucoside, Cucumis Melo Cantalupensis Fruit Extract, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Polylysine.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.5
Claims
Beste™ No. 9 is formulated at an ideal, non-stripping pH level of 5.5.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Drunk Elephant Beste™ No. 9 Jelly Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.5. Overall, the product claim was fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: MISSHA Near Skin pH Balancing Cleansing Foam
Ingredient(s): Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Lauramide Dea, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Tea-cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Chlorphenesin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Peg-160 Sorbitan Triisostearate, Sodium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Styrene/acrylates Copolymer, Onsen-sui, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Hydrolyzed Collagen Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Disodium Edta, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Methyltaurate, Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract, Sapindus Mukorossi Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Yucca Vera Leaf/Root Extract, Sodium Benzoate.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.0
Claims
It’s formulated with saponin complex and mineral water from the Seorak mountains in Korea to create a subacid base that ensures skin stays at the optimal pH level of 5. It’s full of gentle amino acids that thoroughly cleanse skin while leaving it moisturized and supple.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the MISSHA Near Skin pH Balancing Cleansing Foam falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.0. Overall, the product claims were fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Polysorbate 20, Styrax Japonicus Branch/Fruit/Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Betaine Salicylate, Citric Acid, Ethyl Hexanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.0
Claims
A super gentle cleanser that’s great for your morning wash, this low pH formula gel cleanser doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils and contains purifying botanical ingredients and mild acids to gently cleanse your skin to its most supple and clear texture. It’s also formulated to remove makeup and other oil-based residue with a skin-happy pH of 5!
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.0. Overall, the product claims were fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: COSRX Low-pH First Cleansing Milk Gel
Ingredient(s): Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Arginine, Carbomer, Caprylyl Glycol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Butylene Glycol, Cyclomethicone, Disodium EDTA, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.5
Claims
This cleansing milk removes makeup, dirt and excess oil without irritating and drying out skin or compromising the skin barrier.
The lightweight gel-cream formula contains softening papaya fruit extract, inflammation-calming witch hazel extract, and healing and moisturizing allantoin so skin feels smooth and nourished after use.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the COSRX Low-pH First Cleansing Milk Gel falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.5. Overall, the product claims were fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: Thank You Farmer Back To Pure Daily Foaming Gel Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Acrylates Copolymer, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Xanthan Gum, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Pueraria Thunbergiana Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract, Soluble Collagen, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Alcohol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Isononyl Isononanoate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Betaine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.7
Claims
Calm irritation and soothe skin with this foaming cleanser specially formulated for sensitive skin.
The light lather uses micro bubbles to gently wash away impurities. Licorice root extract provides brightening benefits and antioxidant-full pomegranate extract helps protect skin and strengthen it from environmental stressors.
You’ll love how fresh, soothed, and healthy your skin feels after each wash!
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Thank You Farmer Back To Pure Daily Foaming Gel Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.7. Overall, the product claims were fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: Then I Met You Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel
Ingredient(s): Rice Ferment Filtrate (Sake), Aqua (Water/Eau), Sorbitol, Glycerin, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, 1,2 Hexanediol, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Diglycerin, Potassium Cocoate, Propylene Glycol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Gluconolactone, Butylene Glycol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, T-Butyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate.
pH (4.5-6.5): 6.0
Claims
This brightening cleansing gel is packed with fermented rice water as the number one ingredient, and was designed to be a sensorial experience with its natural herbal scent. In addition to tackling impurities like dirt and sweat, the formula brightens with licorice root extract, calms and prevents signs of aging with green tea and lightly exfoliates with gluconolactone (PHA). The formula is sulfate-free and has a gentle pH of 6.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Then I Met You Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 6.0. Overall, the product claims were fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, Glycerin, Propylen glycol, Lauric acid, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Sodium hyaluronate, Dimethyl sulfone, Potassium hydroxide, Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract, Betaine, Stearic acid, Chamaecyparis obtusa water, Ananas sativus(pineapple) fruit extract, Chlorphenesin, Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil, Illicium verum (anise) fruit extract, Citrus paradisi (grapefruit) fruit extract, Nelumbium speciosum flower extract, Paeonia suffruticosa root extract, Scutellaria baicalensis root extract, Panthenol, Citric acid, Pyridoxine, Linum usitatissimum (linseed) seed extract, Hibiscus esculentus fruit extract, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, Arctium lappa root extract, Hibiscus mutabilis flower extract, Corchorus olitorius leaf extract, Hydrolyzed pea protein, Lecithin, Olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, Phytosterols, Squalane, Butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), Ceramide 3, Propanediol, Apium graveolens (celery) extract, Brassica oleracea capitata (cabbage) leaf extract, Brassica oleracea italica (broccoli) extract, Brassica rapa (turnip) leaf extract, Daucus carota sativa (carrot) root extract, Oryza sativa (rice) bran extract, Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) fruit/leaf/stem extract, Lysine hcl, Proline, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, Acetyl methionine, Theanine, Tocopheryl acetate, Panax ginseng callus culture extract, Piper methysticum leaf/root/stem extract, Centella asiatica extract, Portulaca oleracea extract, Beta-glucan, Papain.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.6-7.6
Claims
This lightweight, hydrating cleanser is perfect for everyone. If you have dry skin, this cleanser will change your mind about foaming cleansers. This unique cleanser uses an amino acid formula instead of a sodium lauryl sulfate one, which makes sure that the foam won’t dry out skin and leave it feeling tight. It’s great for sensitive skin too, thanks to hyaluronic acid and aloe leaf extract that nourish and calm skin. If you have acne-prone skin, you’ll love the tea tree leaf oil that fights breakouts and helps you achieve clearer skin. All in all, if you’re looking for a gentle foaming cleanser that thoroughly cleanses skin without stripping skin of moisture, this cleanser is the one to try!
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range if we base it off of 5.6. Oddly enough, the indicated pH range is revealed at 5.6-7.6. That’s a difference of 2.0 on the pH scale! And at 7.6, that value falls outside of the 6.5 (or 7) max range. So that’s something to keep in mind.
Overall, the product claims were fairly general and nothing specific as it relates to the use of a specific pH.
Product: Acwell Bubble Free pH Balancing Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Dipropylene Glycol, Alcohol, PEG-11 Methyl Ether Dimethicone, Benzyl Alcohol, Acrylic acid/Phosphorylcholine Glycol Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Dehydroacetic Acid, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Disodium EDTA, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract, Cimicifuga Dahurica Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Salicylic Acid, Farnesyl Acetate, Farnesol, Panthenyl Triacetate, Fragrance.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.5
Claims
Introducing a gentle cleanser that’s tough on makeup!
With a low pH of 5.5, this lightweight gel cleanser effectively balances skin, helping it stay smooth and supple. This cleanser is formulated with powerhouse ingredients like Centella, aloe, and witch hazel to hydrate, calm, and brighten skin with every wash. Licorice root extract also brightens skin while salicylic acid helps keep breakouts at bay.
Suitable for all skin types, this gentle cleanser is what you need to achieve healthy, balanced skin.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Acwell Bubble Free pH Balancing Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.5. Overall, the product claims were fairly general based on this specific pH but substantiated nonetheless.
Product: Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Propanediol, Lauryl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Panthenol, Madecassoside, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin.
pH (4.5-6.5): 6.5
Claims
Meet the soft, moisturizing cleansing foam of your dreams! This cleanser has a low pH of 6.5 and uses 98.9% naturally derived ingredients to cleanse skin in the gentlest way possible.
SoonJung’s formula has slightly acidic pH condition as natural baby skin. Alkaline skin condition makes protective film on your skin weak, exposing skin to external stress like dryness more easily. If you have sensitive skin, then take with slightly acidic products to relieve your skin.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 6.5. Overall, the product claims based on this specific pH were substantiated.
Product: Phace Bioactive Detoxifying Gel Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Aqua/Water/Eau, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Bromelain, Lactobacillus/Punica Grantum Fruit Ferment Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Panthenol, Thioctic Acid, Bisabolol, Silybum Marianum Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
pH (4.5-6.5): Unknown. However, I found some pictures of old packaging that indicated a pH of 3.0-3.5.
Claims
Scientifically advanced, non-foaming facial wash, free of soaps, detergents and alcohol. Thoroughly removes surface debris and restores pH balance, while gently detoxifying, exfoliating and conditioning the skin, preparing it for optimum treatment results.
Independent Clinical Study Results:
In a clinical study, the Detoxifying Gel Cleanser instantly improved the skin’s barrier function by +51% after just 1 wash.
8 hours later, skin’s barrier function still showed an average +44% improvement from baseline.
In a clinical study after 7 days, of subjects tested:
- 100% agreed their skin felt smoother and softer
- 91% agreed their skin had a more youthful glow
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Phace Bioactive Detoxifying Gel Cleanser is unknown albeit the label does include that product is “pH optimized”. I’m not quite sure what that actually entails as any indication of this particular claim or purpose is undisclosed. It seems that their initial packaging included the actual pH range (3.0-3.5).
Yikes!
So, if they reformulated and changed the pH to fit the 4.5-6.5 range, we will never know. Sigh.
In addition, the brand does mention clinical results from an independent study using the Phace Bioactive Detoxifying Gel Cleanser, with no link or reference to definitively support these results. You know how we feel about this. Double Sigh.
Product: BeautyBio pH Balancing Gel Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water (Aqua), Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Xanthan Gum, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Bisabolol, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance, Chlorphenesin, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.5
Claims
An all-in-one gel facial cleanser and makeup remover solution designed to gently restore skin’s pH balance to a healthy, ideal 5.5 without stripping skin’s protective acid mantle and natural moisture levels.
Gently restores skin’s pH balance without stripping its natural moisture levels
Anti-inflammatory properties help keep skin happy and hydrated so that your serums and moisturizers can work more effectively
Natural extracts remove both face and eye makeup without any irritation.
Clinical Studies:
In a consumer perception survey after using The Balance:
- 100% agreed skin felt clean
- 97% felt their makeup had been thoroughly removed
- 97% agreed the cleanser was gentle
- 90% noticed a decrease in skin oiliness
- 100% felt that a little cleanser went a long way
- 84% noticed a decrease in redness.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the BeautyBio pH Balancing Gel Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.5. Overall, the product claims based on this specific pH were substantiated.
The brand does mention clinical studies results from a consumer perception survey using the BeautyBio pH Balancing Gel Cleanser, with no link or reference to definitively support these results. You know how we feel about this. Sigh.
Product: dr. brandt Clean Biotic™
Ingredient(s): Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Coco-glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Glycol Distearate, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Methyl Glucose Caprate/Caprylate/Oleate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Methylisothiazolinone, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Inulin, Yogurt Powder, Lactic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Chlorophyllin-copper Complex.
pH (4.5-6.5): Unknown.
Claims
A multi-tasking, pH-balanced yogurt cleanser that instantly melts away dirt, pollution, makeup, and excess oil without stripping the skin while helping to retain moisture and soothe redness and irritation due to dryness.
BIOTIC BALANCING COMPLEX: Maintains skin’s naturally occurring flora for a strengthened barrier.
Results To Expect:
- Dissolve stubborn dirt, impurities, pollution, makeup and excess oil
- Maintain a healthy pH balance
- Help the skin maintain its balance of natural flora
- Help strengthen the skin’s barrier
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the dr. Brandt Clean Biotic™ is unknown albeit the label does include that product is “pH balanced”. The brand does attribute its claim to balancing the skin’s natural flora and strengthening its barrier to a biotic complex. I’m not quite sure what that actually entails as any indication to a particular pH range or value is undisclosed.
Product: First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Stearyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Tocopherol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium PCA, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Maltodextrin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, EDTA.
pH (4.5-6.5): Unknown.
Claims
Infused with a powerful Botanical Antioxidant blend, it helps safeguard skin against environmental aggressors while also calming irritated skin. This non-stripping, pH-balanced formula works to maintain skin’s natural acidity and helps reduce flare ups, never leaving skin feeling tight or dry.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser is unknown albeit the product description does include that the product is a“pH balanced” formula. I’m not quite sure what that actually entails as any indication to a particular pH range or value is undisclosed.
Product: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, Coco-Glucoside, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Xanthan Gum, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Rosa Damascena Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Silica, Benzoic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Behenyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Lecithin, Pentylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Caramel, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol.
pH (4.5-6.5): Unknown.
Claims
This pH-balanced gel cleanser for all skin types has a cult following for the way it removes makeup—even mascara—without drying for soft, supple skin. It’s made with amino acid-rich soy proteins, calming cucumber extract, and balancing rosewater. Sensitive skin? It also soothes and tones.
Results:
- 100% reported it thoroughly removed face makeup
- 97% felt their skin was more supple
- 93% said it soothed and softened the skin
- 90% noticed their skin was balanced and healthy looking
*self-assessment on 29 subjects for 4 weeks
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser is unknown albeit the product description does include that the product is a“pH balanced” formula. I’m not quite sure what that actually entails as any indication to a particular pH range or value is undisclosed.
The brand does mention results from a “self-assessment study” using the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, with no link or reference to definitively support these results. You know how we feel about this. Sigh.
Product: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Acrylates Copolymer, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Chloride, Pentylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Distearyl Ether, Behenyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Laureth-2, Propylparaben, Sodium Methylparaben, Squalane, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil/Sweet Almond Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil/Apricot Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Persea Gratissima Oil/Avocado Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid.
pH (4.5-6.5): Unknown.
Claims
This specially formulated gentle foaming cleanser helps remove dirt and debris without over-drying or stripping skin. In addition to dissolving excess oil and dirt, this pH-balanced cleanser helps maintain skin’s natural balance. Formulated with Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E and Avocado Oil, our gentle face wash is suitable for all skin types.
- Gently cleanses without over-drying or stripping skin of its natural oils
- Helps dissolve excess oil, dirt and debris
- Formulated with Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E and Avocado Oil
- Tested for safety and gentleness
- pH-balanced
- For all skin types, including sensitive skin
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is unknown albeit the product description does include that the product is a“pH balanced” formula. I’m not quite sure what that actually entails as any indication to a particular pH range or value is undisclosed.
Product: The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Ingredient(s): Squalane, Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Sucrose Stearate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Isoceteth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Malic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin.
pH (4.5-6.5): 5.5-6.5
Claims
A gentle cleansing product formulated to target makeup removal whilst leaving the skin feeling smooth and moisturized. The formula incorporates Squalane, alongside other lipophilic esters that are gentle, moisturizing, efficient in dissolving makeup and facial impurities and increasing the spreadability of the product. When rubbed between your palms for approximately 10-30 seconds, the product undergoes an important textural change from a balm-like consistency to a clear oil-like consistency. This allows the emulsifying sucrose esters in the formula to trap and blend the dissolved makeup and facial impurities with water for rinsing. Being non-comedogenic and soap-free, this formula is designed to be gentle enough for daily use, without over-drying the skin, making it suitable for all skin types.
Transparency:
Bottom line: The pH of The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser falls safely within the 4.5-6.5 range at 5.5-6.5. Overall, the product claims based on this specific pH were substantiated.
THE GOOD & THE BAD
We knew this topic would be quite challenging. The beauty industry is ever-changing and we are quite aware that even the catalog of reviewed products may possibly be obsolete or discontinued by the time this post is published.
- This is the nature for all our posts.
- The industry is churning out products left and right and it seems that entire lines are being jammed down our throats.
But one thing we observed was very clear. The regulations of the cosmetic industry are still very convoluted. The idea of divulging a product’s pH seems to be at its infancy. But the concept of testing and assuring that a formulated product meets a pH range is not new. Check out the FDA’s Cosmetic Labeling guidance for the latest information.
So, why has it taken so long for the industry to follow suit and include this one little description on a label?
Why are brands just now featuring a product’s pH or pH range?
And to be quite honest, most of the reviewed brands which disclosed or included product pH originating from Asia (more specifically Korea) with a few originating from the US.
Also, why bother stating that a product is “pH-balanced” without actually divulging the actual pH of said product?
The answers to these questions are still a mystery.
DO I NEED THIS?
Do we need to know the pH of the product we are using?
This question may be answered based on what you are trying to achieve from your product. Knowing a product’s pH provides an immense power toward your skincare goal as it relates to:
- Cleansing (as in the cleanser you choose)
- Treatments (which require a certain pH range in order to synergistically activate or improve the ingredients at work).
If you suffer from chronic acne, the pH of your product becomes increasingly important. In fact, a 2017 study found that patients with acne mirrored chronic stratum corneum instability and increased skin pH. The study concluded that incorporating measures to maintain a stable pH would prove to be fruitful in achieving homeostasis of the skin acidic mantle. In fact, acne has been found in vitro to grow at pH 6-6.5.
If you are of the camp that follows the double-cleansing process, having a low pH cleanser is definitely for you. It is this idea that the first step in your cleansing routine would be a product that essentially strips all of the grime/makeup/oil. The second step would involve the low pH cleanse, which would rebalance your skin’s pH from the initial strip. Although truth be told I’ve been known to use a low pH cleanser as my first step – partly due to laziness and lack of time.
Either way, the choice is always yours.
ARE THE CLAIMS BACKED BY SCIENCE?
Overall, the science behind understanding physiological skin pH is not a new concept with the acidic nature of the skin surface first determined in 1892. Scientists, researchers, and medical professionals have not only confirmed but aligned with the following:
- Skin pH is normally acidic, ranging in pH of 4–6
- The body’s internal environment maintains a near-neutral pH (7–9)
- Endogenous and exogenous factors affect skin pH.
Still, it was very frustrating when it actually came time to find products that not only claimed to be “pH-balanced” or “low pH” but also included the actual pH of the final formulation!
So be forewarned.
We believe that it’s an important step for brands to be pH conscious if this is the primary focus of the effectiveness of their product. But don’t just say “pH balanced” or “low pH” and remain mysterious regarding the pH itself.
If brands are going to talk the talk; then shouldn’t brands, walk the walk?
Until then, if the pH of a product remains important to your skincare routine, then I suppose purchasing pH strips or a self-calibrating pH meter in your arsenal might be worth the investment.
A ridiculous measure, in my personal opinion, in order to perform a due diligence check of your product of choice. This is something that we, as consumers, should not have to perform or confirm. But I digress…
Until my next review!
