Skincare formulations require precise pH control, typically between 4.5-6.5, to maintain both product stability and skin barrier function. When formulations drift outside this range, they can trigger enzyme degradation, compromise preservative systems, and lead to changes in product viscosity—affecting both shelf life and clinical efficacy.

The fundamental challenge lies in maintaining stable pH levels throughout the product lifecycle while simultaneously preserving the activity of key ingredients and ensuring optimal skin compatibility.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including buffer systems combined with ceramide complexes, natural surfactant-based stabilization methods, and polymeric thickeners designed for low-pH environments. These and other approaches focus on creating formulations that maintain their target pH under various storage conditions while delivering intended skincare benefits.

1. Cosmetic Composition with Panthenol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, and Botanical Extracts

SAMCHIC CO LTD, Samchic Cosmetic Co., Ltd., 2024

Functional cosmetic composition containing panthenol that improves skin pH, skin barrier, soothes skin, regulates oil-moisture balance, and reduces acne. The composition contains panthenol along with ingredients like glycerin, betaine, niacinamide, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, willow extract, echinacea extract, lotus extract, and passion fruit seed oil. The panthenol-containing composition provides multiple skin benefits beyond just hydration.

2. Oil-in-Water Emulsion with Natural Surfactant DPHP and pH Adjuster for Enhanced Stability

AMOREPACIFIC CORP, Amorepacific, 2024

Oil-in-water composition with enhanced emulsion stability through natural surfactant DPHP, which combines with pH adjusters to form a stable emulsion without conventional surfactants. The composition comprises DPHP, its salt, optical isomer, hydrate, and pH adjuster, which together exhibit enhanced emulsifying properties compared to conventional surfactants. The composition can be produced through high-temperature hydration of pH adjusters, enabling natural surfactant-based emulsion stabilization.

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3. Method for Stabilizing p-Hydroxyacetophenone in Cosmetic Formulations Using pH Buffer

DALUSHANG YANGSHENGTANG COSMETICS R&D CO LTD, 2024

A method to improve the stability of p-hydroxyacetophenone in cosmetic formulations by incorporating a pH buffer that maintains the pH of the composition throughout its shelf life. The pH buffer stabilizes the pH of the formulation even when exposed to light or high temperatures, preventing the yellowing of p-hydroxyacetophenone and maintaining its stability.

4. Topical Formulation with pH Buffer System and Ceramide Complex for Sustained Skin Surface pH Maintenance

SOTERI SKIN INC, 2024

A topical formulation that maintains optimal skin surface pH levels for extended periods, specifically targeting skin barrier function and disorders. The formulation combines a pH buffer system with ceramide complex, niacinamide, phytosphingosine, and hyaluronic acid to support skin barrier homeostasis. The formulation maintains skin surface pH at 4.7 for at least 6 hours, with optimal pH buffer capacity spanning 3-6.5. This pH maintenance enables optimal enzyme activity, ceramide production, and skin microbiome support, while minimizing microbial growth and irritation.

5. Method for Producing Cosmetic Composition with Controlled-Temperature Extracted Plant Extracts and Distillation Processing

CHOI BOKJA, 2023

A method for producing a weakly acidic cosmetic composition that maintains skin pH while achieving skin health benefits. The composition is formulated by combining plant extracts from Houttuynia cordata, ginger, cypress, angelica root, and chrysanthemum flower with a specific ratio of these extracts. The extracts undergo a controlled extraction process, with the plant extracts extracted at a temperature of 95-100°C for 5 hours and the plant extracts extracted at 55-65°C for 10 hours. The resulting extract is then combined with a specific amount of Houttuynia cordata tincture, a terpinene-rich extract, and a preservative, which are then processed through distillation and purification steps. The final composition is characterized by its unique pH profile, antimicrobial properties, and skin-protective benefits.

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6. Composition with Acetylhydroxyproline, Blue Copper Peptide, Centella Asiatica, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate, and pH Regulator for Sensitive Skin

GUANGZHOU YOUBEI BIOLOGICAL TECH CO LTD, 2023

Soothing and repairing composition for sensitive skin that reduces irritation and discomfort. The composition contains acetylhydroxyproline, blue copper peptide, Centella asiatica, allantoin, dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, and a pH regulator. It aims to alleviate symptoms like redness, itching, dryness, and discomfort when applied to sensitive skin. The composition can be used as a facial mask or skincare product.

7. Cleansing Composition with Multi-Layered Emulsion of Ceramides and Stabilized pH-Adjusting Agent

INPACK KOREA CO LTD, 2023

A weakly acidic cleansing composition with improved cleansing power while alleviating skin irritation. The composition comprises a multi-layered emulsion of ceramides, sterols, fatty acids, higher alcohols, and emulsifiers, stabilized by a pH-adjusting agent like carbomer. The emulsion maintains its multi-layered structure under low pH conditions, while the pH adjuster maintains skin barrier function. The composition is formulated as a pH 3-5 weakly acidic formulation for skin care products.

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8. Skin Care Composition with Low pH Tolerant Polymeric Thickener and Salt/Acid Buffer System

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO, 2023

Low pH skin care compositions that provide desirable skin feel properties, good efficacy, and low skin irritation. The compositions contain a skin care active, a low pH tolerant polymeric thickener, and a suitable salt/acid pH buffer system. The pH buffer system enables the composition to maintain a stable pH environment while maintaining the desired skin feel properties. The composition is formulated for topical application to the skin, particularly for treating skin conditions characterized by uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and pale skin.

9. Low-pH Aqueous Skin Care Composition with Hydroxycinnamic Acid and Hydrotrope for Enhanced Solubility and Stability

PROCTER & GAMBLE, 2023

A low-pH, aqueous skin care composition that maintains stable hydroxycinnamic acid (HCA) levels in formulations at pH levels below 5.0, while preventing crystallization and degradation. The composition contains a hydroxycinnamic acid (HCA) at a ratio of 2:1 to 1:2 with a hydrotrope that has a pKa less than the formulation pH and a partition coefficient (logP) less than 3.0. The hydrotrope enhances HCA solubility and stability in low-pH formulations, while maintaining the pH below 5.0. This formulation enables effective delivery of HCA in aqueous skin care products without compromising their stability or sensory profile.

10. Low-pH Aqueous Skin Care Composition with Hydroxycinnamic Acid and Polar Emollient-Co-solvent System

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO, 2023

A low-pH, aqueous skin care composition that effectively solubilizes hydroxycinnamic acid (HCA) while preventing crystal formation. The composition contains a hydroxycinnamic acid concentration of 0.1-10% along with a polar emollient and a co-solvent with a Hansen solubility parameter distance of less than 15 from the HCA. This combination enables stable solubility of HCA in low-pH aqueous compositions, eliminating the undesirable crystal formation typically associated with HCA at neutral pH.

11. Cosmetic Composition with Silybum Marianum Extract, Ascorbic Acid, and Salicylic Acid in Water/Glycol System

LOREAL, 2023

Cosmetic compositions that provide high concentrations of skin active ingredients, including antioxidants, in a stable formulation. The compositions contain Silybum marianum Extract, ascorbic acid, and salicylic acid in a water/glycol system. The formulation maintains solubility and stability at ambient temperatures, enabling effective delivery of these skin protectants.

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12. pH-Stable Skin Care Composition with High-Concentration Urea and Hydroxy Acids

LOREAL, 2023

A skin care composition that maintains high concentrations of urea through pH-stable formulations, enabling enhanced skin conditioning benefits. The composition combines urea with skin actives like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) in concentrations up to 40% by weight, while maintaining pH stability and preventing crystallization. This formulation enables prolonged skin conditioning benefits, particularly in water-based products, while maintaining the skin's natural barrier function.

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13. Cosmetic Composition with Hydroxy Acids and Gel-Cream Texture Utilizing Electrolyte Compatible Thickeners

L'Oréal, L'Oréal, 2023

Cosmetic composition that provides hydroxy acids at low pH values below 5.0, achieving a gel-cream texture without emulsifiers. The composition comprises a hydroxy acid system, mainly low pH value, highly electrolyte compatible thickener, and at least one secondary low pH, high electrolyte compatible thickener. The composition has a pH in the range of about 1 to about 5.0 and is substantially free of emulsifiers, with a gel-cream framework that transitions from initial firmness to a fluid serum-like texture upon application.

14. Cosmetic Composition with Synergistic Rosmarinic Acid and Lemon Balm Leaf Extract Inducing Sodium Hydrogen Exchanger-1 Protein Expression

CMS LAB INC, 2022

Cosmetic composition that enhances skin pH balance through the synergistic action of rosmarinic acid and lemon balm leaf extract. The composition contains a mixture of these bioactive compounds, which together increase the expression of the sodium hydrogen exchanger-1 (NHE1) protein. This NHE1 activation plays a critical role in maintaining the skin's natural pH balance, particularly in the stratum corneum. The composition demonstrates enhanced barrier strengthening and anti-pollution properties, while also exhibiting anti-aging benefits.

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15. Topical Composition with Cysteine and Nicotinamide for Enhanced Glutathione Synthesis in Skin Cells

UNILEVER IP HOLDINGS BV, 2022

Topical skin care composition that enhances glutathione production in skin cells through a synergistic combination of cysteine and nicotinamide. The composition contains cystine, glutamate, and glycine, with the cysteine being particularly effective in promoting glutathione synthesis. This combination provides a stable and effective delivery system for cysteine that bypasses the low solubility of cystine in neutral pH environments. The composition is formulated as a topical emulsion, lotion, gel, or cream that maintains optimal pH levels for skin cell uptake.

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16. Skin Care Composition with Weakly Acidic Organic Acids for Stable pH Maintenance

SHANGHAI QIWEI BIOTECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2022

A skin care composition that maintains a stable pH environment for skin health, particularly in the skin's weak acid layer. The composition comprises a combination of weakly acidic organic acids, including alpha-hydroxy acids, polyhydroxy acids, and mixed organic acids, which effectively restore skin pH without causing irritation. The composition is formulated to maintain skin pH levels of 5.0 or greater, ensuring continuous skin health and barrier function.

17. Skin Cosmetic Composition with Ascorbic Acid Derivative and EDTA Derivative in pH-Stabilized Matrix

DARIYA CO LTD, 2021

A skin cosmetic composition that maintains excellent skin health and appearance while preventing discoloration and odor. The composition contains an ascorbic acid derivative as a whitening ingredient, along with a disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) derivative, a carboxyvinyl polymer, and basic amino acids. The composition maintains a pH range of 5.5-7, exhibits superior elongation stability, and retains non-stickiness, all while maintaining stability against oxidation and degradation.

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18. Cosmetic Composition with Artificial Amniotic Fluid Mimicking Human Amniotic Fluid Ionic and Nutrient Profile

LG Household & Health Care Ltd., LG HOUSEHOLD & HEALTH CARE LTD, 2020

Cosmetic composition comprising an artificial amniotic fluid that provides rapid recovery of skin pH and keratin barrier function, while maintaining stability during product processing. The composition contains a specific artificial amniotic fluid with a composition similar to human amniotic fluid, comprising sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, glucose, and amino acids. This artificial amniotic fluid provides moisture, maintains skin pH, and improves skin barrier function, making it an effective solution for restoring skin health and protecting against environmental stressors.

19. Low pH Skin Care Composition with Niacinamide and Ribose for Enhanced Bioavailability and Stability

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO, The Procter & Gamble Company, 2020

A low pH skin care composition that combines niacinamide with ribose to enhance skin barrier function and appearance. The formulation achieves improved skin barrier properties and reduced hyperpigmentation through a pH-dependent delivery system that optimizes niacinamide bioavailability. The composition maintains a pH below 4.0, enabling the saccharide ribose to effectively interact with skin cells while maintaining stability. This low pH formulation enables enhanced penetration of niacinamide into the skin, particularly beneficial for sensitive skin types.

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20. Cosmetic Composition with Black Cumin Extract for Activation of Sodium/Hydrogen Ion Channels in Keratinocytes

LG Household & Health Care Ltd., LG HOUSEHOLD & HEALTH CARE LTD., 2019

Cosmetic composition that maintains skin pH at a weakly acidic state through the activation of sodium/hydrogen ion channels (Na+/H+ exchanger 1) in keratinocytes. The composition comprises black cumin extract, which increases the activity of Na+/H+ exchanger 1, thereby maintaining skin pH levels between 4.5 and 5.5. This results in improved skin barrier function, enhanced flexibility, and enhanced moisturizing properties, making it particularly effective for skin pH control, skin barrier function improvement, and skin elasticity.

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21. Topical Composition with Partially Neutralized Carbomer Vehicle for In Situ pH Modulation

KRAMER LABORATORIES INC, 2018

Topical composition for treating conditions with elevated skin pH, particularly fungal infections, by utilizing a partially neutralized carbomer vehicle that undergoes in situ neutralization upon application to the affected skin. The partially neutralized carbomer vehicle, comprising a partially neutralized carbomer with a pH below 5, enables sustained neutralization of the carbomer while maintaining a lower pH upon subsequent alkali or base introduction. This unique neutralization mechanism enables the treatment of conditions marked by elevated skin pH through both localized pH reduction and restoration of healthy pH balance.

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22. Cosmetic Composition with Dihydromyricetin and Niacinamide Stabilized by pH Modifier

R&R SALONS PVT LTD, 2018

Cosmetic composition for skin lightening that combines dihydromyricetin and niacinamide to achieve a synergistic effect. The composition utilizes a pH modifier to balance the skin's pH environment while protecting niacinamide from oxidation and maintaining its activity. This composition enables the use of dihydromyricetin, a potent antioxidant, in a cosmetically acceptable vehicle, while niacinamide, a melanin suppressor, is maintained in its active form. The pH modifier ensures optimal performance of both ingredients, enabling their combined use in a single formulation.

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23. Low pH Topical Compositions with Buffering Agent and Cosmetically Acceptable Active Ingredient with Matching pKa

JOHNSON & JOHNSON CONSUMER INC, 2017

Low pH topical compositions containing a buffering agent with a pKa of 2.8 to 4.2 and a cosmetically acceptable active ingredient with a pKa within 1 unit of the pKa of the buffering agent, which enhance topical delivery of cosmetically acceptable active ingredients through the skin barrier.

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24. Emulsion Cosmetic Composition with Organic Acid-Based pH Buffer System

LG HOUSEHOLD & HEALTH CARE LTD, 2016

Emulsion cosmetic composition with a pH buffer system that maintains skin pH stability and provides continuous skin moisture benefits. The composition incorporates a buffer solution containing an organic acid, which maintains a pH range of 3-5, while delivering skin moisturizing benefits. The buffer system prevents skin irritation typically associated with acidic pH levels, particularly in sensitive skin, while maintaining optimal skin moisture levels.

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25. Emulsified Cosmetic Composition with Macro-Sized Liquid Crystal Particles and Acidic pH Stability

LG HOUSEHOLD & HEALTH CARE LTD, 2016

Emulsified cosmetic composition with macro-sized liquid crystal emulsified particles that provides stable delivery of skin-activating ingredients while maintaining skin health. The composition comprises macro-sized liquid crystal emulsified particles with an average diameter of 2 to 30 μm, which exhibit excellent stability in acidic pH conditions and possess enhanced moisturizing properties compared to conventional emulsions. The particles are formulated with a combination of surfactants and thickeners to achieve optimal skin compatibility and stability.

26. Oil-in-Water Emulsion with Long-Chain Mercaptomethyltaurate and Polyol for Allantoin Crystallization Inhibition and Low pH Stability

KOSE CORP, 2016

Oil-in-water emulsion composition for cosmetics and skin care that prevents allantoin crystallization and stabilizes the emulsion at low pH. The composition contains allantoin, long-chain mercaptomethyltaurate as a surfactant, and a polyol like propylene glycol. The polyol combines with allantoin to lower crystallization, and the mercaptomethyltaurate stabilizes the emulsion at low pH. The allantoin:polyol ratio is 0.002-0.05%. The mercaptomethyltaurate concentration is 0.2-3% by mass. The polyol is selected from propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, glycerin, dipropylene glycol, diglycerin, polyeth

27. Skin Cream Formulation with Allantoin in Oil-in-Water Emulsion Using Acidic Anionic Polymer Emulsifier System

SCIODERM INC, 2016

A skin cream formulation that combines allantoin with an emulsifier system that enhances its stability. The formulation comprises an oil-in-water emulsion containing allantoin, and an emulsifier system comprising an acidic anionic polymer. The emulsifier system is particularly effective when combined with a synthetic acidic wax, such as syncrowaxes, which neutralizes the acidic groups of the emulsifier. The formulation provides improved stability of allantoin at room temperature, making it suitable for treating severe skin conditions like epidermolysis bullosa.

28. Multi-Lamellar Emulsion with Ceramide, Sterol, Fatty Acids, and Polymeric Thickener for pH Stability

NEOPHARM CO LTD, 2015

A multi-lamellar emulsion for skin application that maintains a pH range of 3-5, effectively restoring skin barrier function and maintaining moisture levels, while preventing phase separation. The emulsion contains ceramide, sterol, fatty acids, higher alcohols, and emulsifier, with pH adjuster and polymeric thickener components. The formulation maintains its multi-lamellar structure and maintains skin pH stability, with excellent viscosity and phase stability properties.

29. Cosmetic Formulations Kit with pH-Distinct Components for Customizable Mixing

Botica Comercial Farmacêutica Ltd., 2015

Cosmetic formulations combining multiple skin care components with distinct pH profiles to address various skin concerns. The formulations comprise a pH-neutral aqueous gel, a pH-adjusted glycolic acid solution, and an acidic pH-adjusted formulation containing organic acids or active ingredients. The formulations are combined in a skin care kit, allowing users to create customized products by mixing the individual components before use.

30. Topical Composition of Niacinamide and Salicylate with pH-Controlled Formulation

PROCTER & GAMBLE, 2015

Protecting skin from environmental stressors through topical application of a composition comprising niacinamide and salicylate. The composition, formulated at a pH between 5 and 7, provides sustained protection against UV radiation-induced damage when applied to skin surfaces. The combination of niacinamide and salicylate, which work synergistically to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation, enables the composition to maintain its protective effects even after removal. This formulation addresses the challenges of conventional skin care products that either contain salicylate but not enough niacinamide, or vice versa, while maintaining optimal pH levels for skin care benefits.

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