What is the pH scale?

The term pH stands for “potential of hydrogen.”

Basically, it’s a measure of how many hydrogen ions there are in something. Potential meaning the ‘power of’, which refers to the logarithm calculation needed to express the ginormous number of ions as a simpler number. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral (as in pure water).

The actual concentration of hydrogen ions in pure water is approximately 1 × 10^-7 M.

The pH value is calculated as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration. So, the log -7 in the above number becomes 7 on the pH scale.

Solutions with a pH less than 7 are considered acidic, while those with a pH greater than 7 are considered basic (alkaline).

For adults, the normal pH of skin is about 5.5, which is just a little bit acidic

Below is a list of things and their pH level… note where my soap lies.

0 Hydrochloric acid (HCl)

1 Stomach acid

2 Lemon juice

3 Cola, beer, vinegar

4 Tomatoes

4.5 Fish die if water is this acidic

5 Coffee

5.5 Normal rainwater

6 Urine

6.5 Saliva

7 Water, tears

7.5 Human blood

8 Seawater……………………. Soap By Sellers soap is always pH 8!

9 Baking soda, antacids

10 Great Salt Lake

11 Ammonia

12 Bicarbonate of soda

13 Oven cleaner

14 Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)

It’s worth noting that as part of my quality control systems I test every batch of soap for its pH level before the final sign off and packaging. Most soaps range in pH from 8 to 10, while some are even higher! The lower the pH level of soap, however, the less oil it strips away from your skin. I believe pH 8 strikes the best balance for the majority of skin types out there, but you can always do your research and find what’s best for you.

For added scientific fun you can always test my soap with a simple pH testing kit.

Email matt@soapbysellers.com for more information.