What is the acid mantle? A 101 guide

So, what is the acid mantle?
It’s a thin, slightly acidic layer of sebum (the natural oil your skin produces) and sweat that sits on top of your skin. This helps protect it against dirt and bacteria. But when your acid mantle is damaged, it affects your skin's overall health – including your skin barrier. Signs your acid mantle may be damaged can include irritation, dryness, flakiness, redness and even rashes and breakouts.

What can damage the acid mantle?
Age, genetics and weather conditions can all affect your acid mantle. Over-exfoliation and scents and chemicals in certain grooming products can also cause damage and dry out skin, leaving it exposed to the elements. 

How can you protect + care for it?
A daily skin care routine is the best way to keep your acid mantle in good condition. Start by keeping exfoliation to a minimum. Once a week is more than enough to buff away dead skin cells without upsetting your acid mantle. Try gently exfoliating with Dove Men+Care Deep Clean Body + Face Wash. Made with plant-based moisturizers and exfoliating grains, your skin feels healthy and protected against dryness after every shower.

Hydration is also crucial for keeping the acid mantle healthy. Avoid ingredients that can strip the skin’s surface of its protective barrier and resist overwashing with harsh cleansers that leave skin feeling dry. Use a mild, non-irritating, dermatologist tested cleanser like Dove Men+Care Clean Comfort Body + Face Wash to leave your skin feeling healthy and hydrated.

Finally, a lotion will help you lock in moisture, too. For head-to-toe hydration, combine our Dove Men+Care Hydrate+ Face Lotion with one of our fast-absorbing, non-greasy Hand + Body Lotions.

New to lotions? To maximize your moisturizer, read our five top tips.