When it comes to skincare, maintaining a balanced pH is critical for product effectiveness and skin compatibility. Research has shown that skin’s natural pH tends to range between 4.5 and 5.5, which helps in protecting the skin barrier and supporting its natural defenses against bacteria and irritants. The pH of a product like a sunblock lotion should ideally be close to this range, but not below, to maintain protection and skin comfort over extended use.
Why pH Matters in Sun Protection
For sunblock lotions, pH plays a key role in maintaining product stability, optimizing UV-filter effectiveness, and ensuring minimal irritation. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology highlights that sunscreens closer to the skin’s natural pH improve compatibility, which reduces the likelihood of irritation and keeps the skin’s barrier intact.
Rayguard Sunblock: pH Optimized for Skin Health
Nuessentia’s Rayguard Sunblock, with a pH of 7.8, stands out in terms of compatibility and safety. While it may be slightly above the skin’s natural range, research indicates that products with pH levels between 5 and 8 are generally considered safe for sensitive skin and effective in providing broad-spectrum UV protection.
- Skin Compatibility: Studies published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science have demonstrated that products with a pH slightly above the skin’s natural level can still be well-tolerated, especially in formulations designed to stay on the skin’s surface, like sunblocks. The slightly alkaline pH can also enhance the stability of mineral-based filters like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which are key components in Rayguard.
- Stability of Active Ingredients: Research published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine points out that mineral-based sunscreens, such as those containing Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, retain their efficacy across a broader pH range (5-8) without degrading. This makes Rayguard’s pH of 7.8 ideal for both stability and skin protection.
- Effectiveness in Sun Protection: The broad-spectrum protection of Rayguard, designed to block both UVA and UVB rays, benefits from its pH level, which supports the non-comedogenic and fast-absorbing qualities of the product. Research from The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology highlights how pH-neutral to slightly alkaline products maintain the protective efficacy of mineral sunscreens without interfering with the natural barrier of the skin.
Minimal Irritation with Optimal Protection
As confirmed by PCSIR testing, Rayguard’s pH of 7.8 is proven to result in no skin irritation or sensitivity. This aligns with findings in Dermatology Research and Practice, which emphasize that sunscreens with slightly alkaline pH can reduce risks of irritation while maintaining effective UV protection for sensitive skin types.
Rayguard's PCSIR Results
- pH[25°C]: 7.8
- Skin Irritation: Not Detected
- Skin Sensitivity: Not Detected
Conclusion
Nuessentia’s Rayguard Sunblock is formulated with a pH of 7.8, a level that research supports as safe and effective for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Its mineral-based UV filters remain stable and effective at this pH, providing broad-spectrum protection without compromising skin health. The PCSIR testing confirms its non-irritant nature, making it an ideal choice for daily sun protection.
