What's My Butt's pH?

And why does pH matter?

This powerful acronym gets thrown around a lot in skincare—but it’s much more than a marketing term.

pH= "potential of hydrogen." This is a measurement of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, which determines how acidic or alkaline (basic) it is.

We measure it by a scale ranging from 0 to 14:

pH 0–7 = Acidic: Lemon juice, for example, is ~2, and coffee hits around 5.
pH 7 = Neutral: A perfectly balanced solution, i.e., pure water.
pH 7–14 = Alkaline: Baking soda is ~9; bleach at ~12.

Your Hole’s pH: 5.5–7.0

Most Traditional Soap pH: 9-10*

Hole Cleanser pH: 5.6-6.2

Perianal skin is slightly less acidic than typical body skin due to natural moisture and proximity to the anal canal. Excess moisture can increase pH alkalinity to 7.1—and that’s where we get issues.

When skin becomes too alkaline, the skin barrier is compromised. Cue irritations, dehydration, and bacterial or fungal growth like yeast infections.

That’s why Hole Cleanser just feels different. Instead of stripping the skin, the skin barrier is left nourished, balanced, and clean. 

*Source: Tarun J, Susan J, Suria J, Susan VJ, Criton S. Evaluation of pH of Bathing Soaps and Shampoos for Skin and Hair Care. Indian J Dermatol. 2014 Sep;59(5):442-4. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.139861. PMID: 25284846; PMCID: PMC4171909.