Marisa  Arredondo knows firsthand how frustrating skin issues can be. As a teenager and young adult, she battled cystic acne and tried countless treatments, only to find that many of them made her skin worse. It wasn't until she discovered the importance of pH balance in skincare that she finally saw real results. Determined to help others struggling with similar skin concerns, she used her Harvard and Stanford education to develop a skincare line that combined cutting-edge science with real results. That's how Phace Bioactive was born—a brand dedicated to pH-optimized skincare designed to restore the skin's natural barrier and prevent breakouts.

How Marisa Vara Arredondo Discovered the Power of pH

The key to healthy skin, according to Arredondo, lies in the acid mantle—a protective layer on the skin's surface that has a pH of 4 to 5.5. This mildly acidic barrier serves several important functions:

  • Acts as an antioxidant, preventing oxidative damage.

  • Regulates hydration levels, keeping skin from becoming too dry or oily.

  • Shields skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV rays.

  • Fights bacteria, reducing acne and inflammation.

  • Keeps skin firm and resilient, promoting a youthful glow.

When the skin's pH is out of balance—either too acidic or too alkaline—problems arise. Dryness, irritation, dullness, and breakouts can all be linked to an imbalance in the acid mantle. After personally experiencing the benefits of pH-balanced skincare, Arredondo made it her mission to share this knowledge with others.

How to Choose pH-Balanced Skincare Products

To maintain a healthy acid mantle, Arredondo advises consumers to be mindful when selecting skincare products. She recommends:

  • Choosing brands, like Phace Bioactive, that prioritize pH balance and scientific research.

  • Looking for products labeled hypoallergenic (safe for sensitive skin) and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores or cause acne).

  • Avoiding harsh ingredients that can strip the skin, such as:

    • Alcohol-based formulas

    • Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)

    • Emulsifiers like DEA, TEA, and MEA

  • Opting for gentle exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and poly-hydroxy acids (PHAs) instead of rough scrubs or cleansing brushes that can damage the skin barrier.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Arredondo assures that significant improvements can often be seen within a week of switching to a pH-balanced skincare routine. However, she also stresses that skincare is only part of the equation—internal health plays a huge role in maintaining a healthy complexion.

Marisa Vara Arredondo's Tips for Achieving Balanced, Glowing Skin

Beyond using pH-optimized skincare, Arredondo recommends paying attention to diet and lifestyle choices. The skin thrives in a slightly acidic state, but the body as a whole functions best when it's more alkaline. To help maintain this balance, she suggests:

Foods to Avoid:

  • Acid-forming foods like sugar, dairy, red meat, processed grains, yeast, alcohol, and caffeine.

  • Processed and fast foods that contain excess salt and iodine, both of which can aggravate acne.

  • Dairy products, which can trigger inflammation and worsen breakouts.

Foods to Eat More Of:

  • Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and broccoli.

  • Low-sugar fruits such as apples, lemons, bananas, berries, and pomegranates.

  • Healthy nuts like walnuts, almonds, and chestnuts.

  • Whole grains such as quinoa, steel-cut oats, and amaranth.

  • Seeds like chia, flax, pumpkin, and sunflower.

Final Steps to Achieving Clear, Healthy Skin

Arr skin repair itself naturally, promoting a clear, youthful glow.

Mealthy skin. skin repair itself naturally, promoting a clear, youthful glow.

Marisa Vara Arredondo's journey from struggling with acne to launching Phace Bioactive proves that science-backed skincare can be truly transformative. Her message is clear: by understanding pH balance, choosing the right products, and taking care of your body from the inside out, anyone can achieve radiant, healthy skin.