There are many layers of the epidermis in which an aesthetician treats. The acid mantle is a protective barrier formed by your skin using sebum (an oily secretion produced by our sebaceous glands) and sweat. These are produced naturally by your skin. This barrier prevents invasion by bacteria, fungi and other harmful invaders.
The use of harsh facial cleansers can break down the acid mantle allowing invaders such as bacteria to cause infection. Acne can be the result of compromising our acid mantle. Sodium Laureth/Laurel Sulfate, is a powerful surfactant used in many of our facial cleansers. Depending on the concentration in the product, this cleansing agent can be very harsh for our skin and cause the break down of the acid mantle. The sudsy effect we get when cleansing our skin with these products is the result of the Sodium Laureth Sulfate being combined with water and friction. We tend to equate this sudsy action with 'clean'. Unfortunately it is this action that is contributing to acid mantle injury. This compound is also used in car shampoos and floor cleansers. Our skin is far more fragile than a floor or a car right?
So how do we protect our acid mantle? First and foremost is the use of products that protect the PH of our skin. Our skin's PH is between 4.5 and 5.5 and if the product's PH is below 4.5, it is considered acidic and will break down the acid mantle. If the PH is above 6 then it will be considered alkaline and it can have the same effect. Try to avoid products that contain Sodium Laureth or Laurel Sulfates. If that isn't possible at least try to find a product where it isn't the first ingredient listed since that first ingredient tends to be considered the 'active ingredient' in a product.
I tell my clients that if they cannot afford a good healthy skin product the next best thing is nature. Use plain yogurt to cleanse your skin, it has lactic acid which will break down dirt and dead skin cells but will not alter the PH of your skin.
Keeping the acid mantle healthy will mean fewer pimples and acne caused by bacterial invasions.
Lorri believes that achieving beautiful skin is more than just buying the right product; nutrition and healthy habits affect your skin too. Lorri gives each client the tools they need to be able to achieve the beautiful skin they desire. To schedule your appointment with Lorri at True Harmony call 480-539-6646 or email info@trueharmonywellness.com
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