1. The Epidermis
The epidermis is our outermost layer of our skin. Below it lies the dermis and then the subcutaneous tissue or subdermis. The epidermis consists of layers upon layers of epithelial cells.  These epithelial cells are made of dead dermal cells and pigment, the epithelial cells are held together by a waxy oil called sebum. The point of the epidermis is to protect the dermis from damage and to give our body a waterproof layer, so we are able to do things, like swim and bathe. The top protective layer of epidermis is called your microbiome.

 

2. Microbiome
The microbiome or acid mantle is the natural ph level at which your sebum sits atop the surface of your skin. This ph level varies from person to person.  The body knows which optimal pH it needs to be in order to keep you protected best. It contains good bacteria that fights off microbes that your skin comes in contact with.

 

How does skincare work?
The whole point of skincare is to nourish the skin barrier (the epidermis).  If you have that in place then the skin’s normal regenerative process can take over. The skin will be allowed to self moisturize (via sebum), self exfoliate (via a shedding process called desquamation) and self protect (via the microbiome), which neutralises bacteria and pathogens and self heals. When it doesn’t go through this natural process, problems arise. 

 

Which types of products DON’T allow the skin to work in its natural state?
Anything that changes the pH.

 

What changes the pH?
water,
cleansers,
soap,
alcohols,
creams,
lotions,
emulsifiers,
exfoliants,
enzymes,
AHA’s,
BHA’s,
Retinols,
vitamin C
(pretty much every single thing you would put on your face)

 

What doesn’t change the pH?
Oil. (in this case, tallow balm)

 

So how can I balance my pH?
If you are stuck in a rut with your skin and feel like it needs a rebalance, do exactly that. Reset your microbiome with an oil routine. You can do that by taking the alcohol completely out of your routine by doing a full product cleanse. We suggest taking a small amount of tallow balm and massaging it into your face. Get a small towel or wash cloth wet with very warm water (but not so hot it will burn you). Drape the wet cloth over your face (make sure you can breathe!) and let it sit for about 1 minute. Gently wipe down your face with the wash cloth. Rinse with cool water. Pat dry with a clean towel.