tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post3320672199604223220..comments2024-03-27T10:48:56.520-07:00Comments on Snow White and the Asian Pear: Skincare Discovery: Why the pH of Your Cleanser MattersCat Cactushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-54241922745254041572018-04-23T10:11:54.593-07:002018-04-23T10:11:54.593-07:00Aww, thank you! My first thought is: probably not,...Aww, thank you! My first thought is: probably not, although not likely any harm as long as it doesn't irritate your skin. Acne bacteria thrives at a higher pH, which may be why they've gone super low for their cleanser. The thing about cleansers is that they spend very little time on your skin, so other than avoiding disrupting the moisture barrier via a high pH, I don't really rely on them to do much except cleanse. :)<br /><br />I hope that helps!Cat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-18982540243464273532018-04-21T01:48:10.942-07:002018-04-21T01:48:10.942-07:00Okay, these are crazy well-written articles. So no...Okay, these are crazy well-written articles. So now my question: is there any benefit to using a cleanser with a ph lower than 5.5 or 5? Innisfree has a problem skin cleanser that is supposedly a ph of 3. Is there really any benefit to that?Deannahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07297218258560830869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-18903407647126454682018-04-16T11:44:40.699-07:002018-04-16T11:44:40.699-07:00Hi there! So, according to one study I linked abov...Hi there! So, according to one study I linked above, water does impact the skin but in a minimal way. The important thing is to keep in mind that the pH scale is logarithmic, so while the pH of water is higher than your skin, the pH of an alkaline cleanser is a LOT higher than your skin!<br /><br />Also, think of pH as part of a "balanced diet" for your skin. It's not the be-all and end-all, but it's a healthy habit to have. ;)Cat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-45412603256462413442018-04-15T23:19:09.005-07:002018-04-15T23:19:09.005-07:00Hi Cat, This is an incredible article and thank yo...Hi Cat, This is an incredible article and thank you so much for introducing me to this whole new world. But I do have a silly question. If we are rinsing off the cleanser with water, wouldn't that still impact the pH of the skin ?Smruthihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17588858777491930572noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-5250569598096771282018-02-26T08:32:39.829-08:002018-02-26T08:32:39.829-08:00There are a lot of factors, pH is just one part of...There are a lot of factors, pH is just one part of the puzzle. Also, most people likely have compromised moisture barriers (due to high pH products, pollution, environmental factors, stress, genetics, etc) not to mention acne as a result of a hormone imbalance or other medical factors.<br /><br />Oily skin is also more prone to clogs, in my experience, so it provides plenty of fuel for the acid fire, so to speak. If you find that your products are working well for you, your skin isn't clogged, and there's no other obvious culprits for your acne, I'd check with a dermatologist to make sure there's not something else going on.<br /><br />Good luck with your skin journey! :) Cat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-67961276292540280132018-02-20T08:34:09.709-08:002018-02-20T08:34:09.709-08:00Hi Jaymee,
Since it's the foaming agents and ...Hi Jaymee,<br /><br />Since it's the foaming agents and other cleanser-specific ingredients which make formulating low-pH cleansers difficult (as explained to me, at least!) I'm not as concerned with moisturizers as I've found they tend to have a skin-friendly pH. Also, they don't tend to be packed with surfactants to strip the natural oils from our skin as cleansers are, which makes them more moisture-barrier friendly as well.<br /><br />If anything has a crazy high pH, I'd definitely still dodge it, though! ;)Cat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-9259004032537567162018-02-02T10:26:07.404-08:002018-02-02T10:26:07.404-08:00Hi! I'm not sure if this blog post is still ac...Hi! I'm not sure if this blog post is still active! If it is.. I was wondering what your thoughts are on a PH balanced 5.5-7ish moisturizer? Is it still as important to have a low PH in a moisturizer, or mostly just a face wash and toner?Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03864223748408970356noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-9661193690541588802017-12-15T02:32:47.261-08:002017-12-15T02:32:47.261-08:00Hello!! i love your blog posts and tips for skin c...Hello!! i love your blog posts and tips for skin care ! thank you so much for constantly sharing ! I have a question in mind, if oil skin has extremely low pH, then how exactly does bacteria thrive on our skin ? I personally struggle with oily skin, acne and blemishes, although I use a basic 3-step routine, they never seem to be clearing up but just gets less inflamed and red. Any tips to help ? <br />Thank you so much in advance !! :)Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09804060795079532085noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-51571658186851915452017-06-26T01:23:49.475-07:002017-06-26T01:23:49.475-07:00Hello! You mentioned that water raises the pH of o...Hello! You mentioned that water raises the pH of our skin and it may cause issues?<br /><br />What are your thoughts on the Go Hyun Jung's cleansing routine by using 15 minutes to wash her face?<br /><br />And also, since acidic is better for our skin, what are your thoughts on the 'water helps wash away bacteria and germs' theory? <br /><br />Thank you in advance!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04917701039156921837noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-67988359383406053832017-05-29T12:43:06.203-07:002017-05-29T12:43:06.203-07:00Woo hoo! Can you shoot me an email at snowwhiteand...Woo hoo! Can you shoot me an email at snowwhiteandthepear at gmail.com?Cat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-66407866241232843682017-05-27T11:06:37.698-07:002017-05-27T11:06:37.698-07:00So you have questions for a chemist? Bring em on!So you have questions for a chemist? Bring em on!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00192827306671597653noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-36490322659957895342016-10-19T06:55:07.259-07:002016-10-19T06:55:07.259-07:00Maybe I missed it (am reading this post late at ni...Maybe I missed it (am reading this post late at night in bed lol) but I couldn't see where you mentioned what negative effects/damage aside from acne high pH cleansers cause? Just trying to understand fully what the risks are :) Areiniahhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05188910905682163876noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-7364796243043586742016-10-15T22:36:18.401-07:002016-10-15T22:36:18.401-07:00I love how your posts are all backed up with scien...I love how your posts are all backed up with scientific articles! I've read an article (by a famous family owned bar soap company - Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve Company) saying that the pH value of your cleanser doesn't matter and the 'pH balanced' label is "nothing more than a marketing promotional hype". Funny thing is that I don't see ANY citations or references from ANY scientific researches or experiments in that article. I find it ridiculous to make such huge claims only based on their unorthodox views.<br /><br />I'm with you on the importance of pH in your skincare. Whenever I use pH balanced skincare products, my skin improves, feels healthier, more hydrated and less oily. Currently using the COSRX Good Morning Gel Cleanser and I love how it doesn't dry out my skin at all!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06738246233420860327noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-84336876388145484992016-10-04T22:28:35.552-07:002016-10-04T22:28:35.552-07:00Hi Sunshine,
Double cleansing is best for sunscre...Hi Sunshine,<br /><br />Double cleansing is best for sunscreen, even if one isn't wearing makeup. Also, oil and balm cleansers like the Banilaco are oil-based and you don't have to worry about the pH. :)<br /><br />I use cleansing water on a regular basis, but it's not as effective as a "true" cleanse, although I find it's better than makeup wipes. :)<br /><br />Take care,<br />-CatCat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-14921149739378724652016-09-29T18:07:01.734-07:002016-09-29T18:07:01.734-07:00Hi Cat!
Thank you for writing all of this. I am a...Hi Cat!<br /><br />Thank you for writing all of this. I am a recent convert too and I love your blog. How does this pH thing work with double cleansing? I am currently using the Purity Zero that you recommended on your blog for those who are trying to start their skincare routine. I am looking for a second cleanser because I feel like everyone is double cleansing....I guess I have a few questions, do I need to even double cleanse if I don't wear makeup most days? Do you have one that you recommend if the pH of the Purity Zero is too high? And what do you think of using micellar water in particular Bioderma Sebum (blue cap)? <br /><br />I am currently in Korea so any of the difficult to find in America options are good for me :) <br /><br />Thank you!! You're literally amazing. Sunshinehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14510140318913635393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-28243879796087094572016-09-16T22:05:52.035-07:002016-09-16T22:05:52.035-07:00Hi Kaye,
I am so sorry to hear that your skin is ...Hi Kaye,<br /><br />I am so sorry to hear that your skin is suffering! I hope that things smooth out for your soon and you can get back to enjoying your skincaretainment + happy skin. :) <br /><br />I'm glad I was able to help you with your question!<br /><br />Take care,<br />-CatCat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-69484827199160984562016-09-16T20:50:06.858-07:002016-09-16T20:50:06.858-07:00Hi Cat! Can I say, you're my skin care angel?
...Hi Cat! Can I say, you're my skin care angel?<br />I am a Korean Skin care newbie/convert, and I have acne problems since puberty and now I'm turning 30 in a couple more months.<br />Out of desperation, one day I typed "Korean skin care for acne prone skin" in google, and Peach and Lily's website came first on the list. It was a mistake that I bought all the products on the curated routine without doing so much research. And that was the biggest mistake of my life, much bigger than putting lemon juice and baking soda on my skin LOL!! I know, you can slap me by now. So yeah, I was that, I did all the things you've mentioned that can destroy my skin. To add another mistake on the list, I have been reading your post for almost two weeks now, I have read your post about your skin care routine, your skin care closet, how you layer up, where you shop, and even your spreadsheets. But this. I just read this now. (Sigh) So, I am using the Aromatica Tea Tree Balancing Foam Cleanser, and after reading this post, I searched the pH level of my cleanser and found out it is an alkaline. I cried and cried and cried. <br />I learned it the hard way. <br /><br />BTW, I was the one who asked you about the custom fees upon ordering for Jolse. I want to thank you for educating people like me. More power to you and I hope you don't stop writing. May God bless you even more!<br /><br /><br />Respectfully,<br /><br />Kayekg_unstoppablehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15144566266438099034noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-48341787854048188872016-08-28T11:04:36.331-07:002016-08-28T11:04:36.331-07:00Just found your blog. I have my degree in biology ...Just found your blog. I have my degree in biology but have been a chemist most of my professional career. I am eating up every word you've written. I am so impressed and learning a lot. Thanks for your research. I'm converting my beauty routine and you're helping more than you'll ever know!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-28202114427858420562016-07-20T18:13:04.528-07:002016-07-20T18:13:04.528-07:00How low can the pH of the cleanser go? A product t...How low can the pH of the cleanser go? A product that is too basic or too acidic can be bad but I'm not sure at what pH should I stay away fromAnonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18359133351791280792noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-70623125239841778872016-07-18T00:05:43.511-07:002016-07-18T00:05:43.511-07:00Hi there!
Thanks for such a well written, in dept...Hi there!<br /><br />Thanks for such a well written, in depth article on this. I never thought pH could be so important. I love the fact you have a whole section of skincare 'nerdiness' and I can totally relate as I love finding more about (and writing about it too) the science behind my skincare, ingredients use and debunking skincare myths. <br /><br />I am relatively new to Korean Skincare but I am hoping will soon change as I have an upcoming trip to Seoul in September! <br /><br />Thanks to you, I am totally going to purchasing a set of pH strips and seeing where my cleansers sit on this scale. <br /><br />#mindblown<br /><br />Fiona <br /><br /><br />www.orchidsandpeonies.com<br />Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02521856376745642822noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-3190277468333191672016-04-08T11:56:42.271-07:002016-04-08T11:56:42.271-07:00I use them as body wash and brush/sponge cleansers...I use them as body wash and brush/sponge cleansers. :)Cat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-23519458738588106472016-04-07T23:40:42.215-07:002016-04-07T23:40:42.215-07:00So what did you end up doing with your high-pH foa...So what did you end up doing with your high-pH foaming cleansers? I just found out the one I'm using (Shiseido Pureness Foaming Cleansing Fluid) is hella alkaline... I'm not sure if I should just throw it out or what. I've been using it for so long too, it's so hard to part with it. :( fishiiiehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06508954190407870244noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-55203296596595866782016-02-20T08:44:40.122-08:002016-02-20T08:44:40.122-08:00I personally use my hands to add water to the clea...I personally use my hands to add water to the cleansing oil on my face so that it emulsifies and rinses off, and I used foaming cleansers on konjac sponges because the sponge helped foam up the cleanser. Low pH cleansers tend to have less foaming action so the sponge helps to foam it up.<br /><br />I personally don't like the menthol feeling, but if you like it and it's working for your skin, why not? ;) If you liked the other one better because the new one makes your face feel dry, then you should go with whatever one your skin likes best. :)<br /><br />Take careCat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-54578147615516481742016-02-20T08:41:18.804-08:002016-02-20T08:41:18.804-08:00Hi Audre,
I actually partnered with someone who h...Hi Audre,<br /><br />I actually partnered with someone who has a degree in Chemistry to discuss the impact of water and pH here: Mating Habits of Molecules: the Secret Life of pH (http://www.snowwhiteandtheasianpear.com/2015/10/mating-habits-of-molecules-secret-life.html) <br /><br />Also, I would caution you against getting too anxious about pH; it's just one of many factors to consider when it comes to your skin. The bulk of the research that I included above specifically focuses on the impact of high pH cleansers, which are also stripping the skin of oils, so while that's enough for me make the personal decision to stop using high pH cleansers, but pH alone is not enough to predict how your skin would react.<br /><br />In terms of how one would incorporate it into a routine, I just use low pH cleansers. I have a post on the cleansers that I use, which you can find under the Routine & Spreadsheet tab above, but the Cosrx low pH cleanser you mentioned is very popular with people as well!<br /><br />Take careCat Cactushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14052704885218633917noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2541982013000251431.post-84716943776980406862016-02-19T17:09:27.754-08:002016-02-19T17:09:27.754-08:00Hello! I just have a few questions: Should I use t...Hello! I just have a few questions: Should I use the konjac sponge with the cleansing oil or the 2nd cleanser? And I have been using the Clinique mild liquid cleanser for roughly 3 months now, and it has been good, but it is supposedly used for dry to dry combination skin, while I have a dehydrated oily combination like you. So after I finished with the mild cleanser, I switched off to their oily liquid cleanser, which is recommended for oily combination and oily skin. However, it has a minty feeling to the face (I noticed menthol in the ingredient list) and my skin is a little bit drier than before, so should I switch back to the mild one? I don't know why everyone is avoiding menthol, but it feels weird to have that after-brushing-teeth on the face. Is it bad for skin? Thank you very much for your help.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07579187544535778964noreply@blogger.com