Acne Can Be Caused by the Absence of Acid Mantle of Our Skin
Did you know that we have a protective layer on our skin that kills harmful bacteria and prevents acne? Well we do… That is why babies have the most beautiful skin because they have that protective layer in a good condition. We call that layer Acid Mantle!
But of course if you have been using products that are not natural and strip away our skin, the chances are that acid mantle is long gone. But not to worry because we can restore it with a super amazing skin care regime. Read more to find out…
What exactly is Acid Mantle in Scientific Terms?
So according to Wikipedia the perfect definition is: The acid mantle is a very fine, slightly acidic film on the surface of the skin acting as a barrier to bacteria, viruses and other potential contaminants that might penetrate the skin. 
The natural pH of our outer skin should be between 4.5 and 6 so basically our skin should be slightly acidic. Now you might be wondering if that is even safe for our skin or not. Well it turns out that this is the safest for our skin.
This pH keeps the good bacteria alive on our skin. These good bacteria kill the bad ones (the ones that cause acne I hate them) by producing lactic acid. If we remove the acid mantle, the good bacteria dies and so there is nothing left to kill the bad ones. These bad boys then give us acne, allergies, rashes and many other skin conditions.
The face washes and moisturizers we use everyday are on the alkaline (opposite of acidic) side on pH scale. So these chemicals and cosmetics are the main cause of destroying our acid mantle. I published a blog post on chemicals and how they harm us. Check it out here: Are the everyday food & chemicals (makeup, skincare..) major cancer causing agents?
So in fact when we feel all squeaky clean while washing face with a soap… the reality is you are striping away a protective layer that invites the bad bacteria to cause acne and pimples. Even the products that claim they are “pH balanced” are full of crap… literally because they still contain alcohols, parabens etc…
“If the acid mantle is not intact,” says dermatologist Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, MD, PhD, “this can predispose skin to inflammation and enzymatic activity that can, in turn, speed aging.”
How Can I Restore My Acid Mantle?
I use ACV (apply cider vinegar) as a skin toner. It is slightly acidic and has amaaaazing skin benefits. It’s really good for acne prone skin, it fights the bad bacteria and of course adjusts our pH i.e. restores acid mantle.
- Take 1tsp of ACV and mix it with 2tsp of water to dilute it.
- With a cotton pad apply this mixture on your skin after removing makeup and cleansing skin.
But when buying ACV be extremely careful because it has to be organic and raw. Only then I find the results are effective. Also make sure it includes the “mother” because it contains many nutrients and minerals.
The best brands for ACV are Bragg and Biona.
If you find any other brand that claims the same “good stuff” as the two brands above then you can use that one too.
I also have started using soap on once in a day. Before I used soap twice a day on my face. Now I am thinking not to use it at all because I have a really good cleansing/toning routine that I won’t need soap at all.
If you want to find out my cleansing and toning routine check it out: DIY: 100% Natural Anti-bacterial Cleanser & Toner for Acne-prone Skin and Scars 
It gets rid of all the oils and dirt. It balances the pH of my skin. It takes off my makeup really well. It keeps my skin smooth and supple and flawless. What else do we girls need, right?
These two methods have been experienced personally by myself so if you have any questions let me know in the comments below 🙂
They are definitely safer than the drugstore crap. They give effective results and are awesome for our skin!
“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.” ~Ashley Smith
