pH stands for “potential of hydrogen”, and it is fundamental to achieving overall wellbeing. Balanced pH levels are key for skin health and good intimate care, but what is it and how does it affect your body?

pH is a measurement of acidity on a scale from 0 to 14. It tells us how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidity and increases as the number decreases – making 0 the most acidic value. Values above 7 indicate alkalinity and increases as the number increases – making 14 the most alkaline value.

The skin’s pH level is just below 5, which is slightly acidic. If the pH of the skin is raised too high or drops too low, it can disrupt the healthy balance of the skin and its natural microbiome (the microorganisms that are naturally present in the skin to help protect the skin). This could result in the healthy balance of the skin being disrupted and potentially compromising the skin's protective barrier.

The pH levels differ in different parts of the body – the pH of the female intimate area is lower – about 3.5-4.5. Similarly to the rest of the skin, if the pH of the intimate area is unbalanced, the skin could lose its natural protective mechanism. When skin protection is reduced, it could lead to discomfort, irritation, or even infection.

During menstruation, it is important to change pads or tampons regularly. It’s also important to avoid harsh soaps and shower gels. Instead, use a product range that is specifically formulated for this sensitive area like Feminelle. These intimate care products are developed for optimised pH balance and to protect the microbiome. They also contain lactic acid, prebiotic infusion and natural Swedish extracts for lasting comfort. Plus, they are biodegradable, which is good for the environment.