NOURISH YOUR SKIN - your skin is a frontline defender against infection.

Your skin has a function besides keeping the insides in. Skin is your largest organ and works in tandem with other structures and systems of the body. Skin breathes, it takes in nourishment, and rids the body of toxins. And your skin has olfactory sensors.*

The outermost layer of the skin has an environmental protection system called the Acid Mantle:

The acid mantle is a thin barrier layer, the interface between you and the outside world. A very thin, slightly acidic film that protects you from bacteria, viruses and other contaminants.

It might not sound pretty, but a healthy acid mantle is your body's first-line of defense. Breakdowns in the acid mantle cause dry, sensitive, irritated, cracked skin which is susceptible to infections.The layer is made up of "friendly secretions" sebum, perspiration and lactic acid.

The pH of healthy skin is between 4.5 and 5.5, which is slightly acidic: water is 7.0, or neutral, and lemon juice 2.0 which is pretty darned acidic.

In healthy, balanced skin, there is also a chemical that helps dead skin cells to slough. Imbalances are caused by diet and environment, conditions like eczema, and well-meaning (but off kilter) skin care.

It turns out, all skin is sensitive skin; imbalances cause reactivity which results in overly dry, or overly oily skin. Returning to balanced skin requires a nuanced touch, and time - - facials, massage, yoga, and gentle care.

It may be helpful to think of the skin, not as a type (oily, dry, combination), but as a state. The state the skin is at this time, and treat accordingly - being gentle to avoid breakdowns in the acid mantle.

We are in the midst of this global pandemic and a much more enthusiastic for hand washing - which is great. But all this use offhand sanitizers and harsh detergents masquerading as soap will destroy the acid mantle. So keep up the good fight and don’t forget to nourish your skin.

Since one of my core values is To Empower, I have been looking for ways to pass on 25 years of knowledge. So, I made a free eBook for you from the zine we have used in our workshops. Inside you will find recipes and resources.

Author Monique Herzig, Esthetician, Slow Living Evangelist and Henna Artist

Photo by Emily Berger for Alchemy Slow Living Studios

* The Scientist Magazine

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