What does Meso Meso mean in Urban Dictionary?: a mix of what 'meh' and 'so-so' Meso Meso uses both words to mention a sense of mediocrity in state of mind. Got it! This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website More info
If you use a soap that's too alkaline, it will break up the acid in your skin, causing dryness. The pH level of most skin cleansers is slightly higher than 5.5, so the cleanser can break down dirt and oil on your skin. However, soap -- especially bar soap -- typically has a pH level of 9 to 12, which is too high if you're trying to keep your skin moist. Cleansers with lower pH levels leave your skin intact instead of breaking down the fatty tissue [source: Draelos ].
Soap-based cleansers tend to have a pH level of approximately 10, making them much more alkaline than syndets, which are typically pH 7 or lower. It appears that higher pH levels in soap are a key contributor to skin irritation seen with surfactant cleanser use. The exact way in which this irritation occurs is unknown.