What effect does excessive exposure to high pH have on the skin?

Excessive exposure to high pH can result in dryness and irritation of the skin. The skin's natural barrier, which is slightly acidic, plays a crucial role in maintaining moisture and overall skin health. When the pH is elevated due to products like harsh soaps or alkaline cleansers, it disrupts this acid mantle, leading to a breakdown in the skin’s ability to retain moisture. This can cause dryness because the water content of the skin evaporates more easily when the barrier is compromised. Moreover, skin irritation may occur due to inflammation or damage to the skin cells, which can also result from the imbalance in pH. All these factors contribute to the adverse conditions characterized by dryness and irritation.