Your acid mantle is the invisible shield on your face that protects you from environmental aggressors, pollution, UV rays and harsh weather. This thin, slightly acidic film (pH around 5.5) is composed of sebum, sweat and amino acids and acts as a barrier, keeping moisture in and irritants out.
Modern life and the wrong skincare products can disrupt this delicate balance, causing your skin to become unbalanced. If you are experiencing any of the following, then it’s likely that your acid mantle is compromised:
Dryness
Tightness
Oiliness
Acne or pimples
Pigmentation
Roughness
Why we need to protect our acid mantle
It locks in moisture and prevents the symptoms of dry skin, like flakiness, itchiness, redness, irritation, and that dreaded tight feeling!
It fights off bacteria, keeping acne, inflammation, and infections at bay.
It maintains skin health by supporting a thriving microbiome for a clear, balanced complexion.
What disrupts your acid mantle?
Harsh skincare products such as foaming cleansers and alcohol-laden toners can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin vulnerable.
Over-exfoliation, whether from harsh scrubs or excessive use of AHAs/BHAs, can damage the skin's surface.
Alkaline products such as soaps with a high pH disrupt the skin's natural acidity.
Environmental factors including pollution, sun exposure, and even hard water can take a toll.
Why plant oils are acid mantle heroes
The good news is that Husk & Seed Skincare is formulated with gentle plant oils that are beneficial to your acid mantle, keeping your skin healthy, clear and balanced!
They mimic skin's natural oils: Plant oils like jojoba, squalane, and rosehip are similar in structure to the sebum your skin produces, making them easily absorbed and utilised. They replenish lost lipids, reinforcing the acid mantle without disrupting its delicate balance.
They provide a gentle cleansing experience: Unlike harsh, soapy cleansers that strip away the skin’s natural oils, plant oils cleanse by dissolving impurities and excess sebum. Oil cleansing effectively removes dirt and makeup, while preserving the skin's natural protective barrier.
pH balanced: Plant oils won’t upset your skin's natural acidity. They will help to maintain the optimal environment for your acid mantle to thrive.
Antioxidant powerhouses: Oils like argan, grapeseed, and sea buckthorn are packed with antioxidants that fight free radical damage caused by pollution and UV exposure. This added protection helps keep the acid mantle strong and resilient.
Anti-inflammatory action: Plant oils possess anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritation and redness. This is especially beneficial for those with sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
By making conscious choices and embracing a natural approach to skincare, you can nurture your acid mantle and unlock the secret to truly healthy, radiant skin.