Rant: Testing cleanser pH changed how I do consultations
I had a client with super red and itchy skin after using a new cleanser. At first, I thought it was just sensitivity. But when I checked the product, I realized I had no idea about its pH level. I bought some simple pH test strips online. The cleanser tested at a 9, which is way too high for skin. Now, I always test the pH of cleansers before I suggest them. It takes an extra minute but it saves a lot of trouble. I even keep a few strips in my kit to show clients. This small step has made my treatments much more effective.
pH stuff is real, huh? My skin would probably freak out if I tested anything. Good for your friend, @nguyen.iris. I tried once and broke out for a week. Maybe I need to check my own cleanser.
I read that cleansers with a high pH can mess up your skin barrier pretty bad. Some articles say it makes your face more open to breakouts and dryness. Might explain why your skin freaked out that one time.