We would have come across the term pH balanced by shopping for personal care products, including hair care products like shampoos and serums. Further, we see ads and other pieces of communication highlighting it. Have you ever wondered what pH balance for hair is all about? Well, you are not alone. To know all about pH balance and how it is important for your hair, continue reading…
pH or potential hydrogen measures the acidity or alkalinity (basicity) of a liquid. A pH is a logarithmic unit, meaning that a change in one pH point means a tenfold change in hydrogen ion concentration. A pH of 7 indicates neutrality, less than 7 indicates acidity, and greater than 7 indicate alkalinity.
Hair is made of keratin, a fibrous protein. This protein has a pH balance of 4.5 to 6.0, which is slightly acidic. The hair’s natural state creates a protective cuticle layer and protects the inner cortex. The cortex contains the hair’s color and strength, while the cuticle provides shine and elasticity. The hair can be damaged with too much water or oil exposure. This can raise the hair pH level and cause frizziness, dryness, split ends, breakage, and loss of color. Maintaining the pH balance for hair is important for maintaining healthy hair regardless of your texture or style.
How do you maintain the pH of your hair?
- Do you know your hair type?
Sure, it’s a common question, but not many people really understand the different types or why it matters. Knowing your hair type is important because it allows you to choose products and styles that will work for you.
You’ve probably heard about the four main hair types. They are straight, wavy, curly, and coily (also known as kinky). Each of these types can also be broken down into more specific categories (think 2A, 3C, and so on), but these four main types can help define your hair.
Look at your individual hairs. Are they smooth and stick-straight? Do they have a slight bend? Are they tightly curled or kinky? Think about how your hair looks when you wake up in the morning, how it reacts to humidity, and how much volume you usually get.
If you’re having trouble figuring out your type, take the Glowown haircare Quiz !
- Picking the right hair care products
There are different products for different hair types, so make sure you pick the right one for your hair. There’s a difference between shampoos and conditioners for natural hair and chemically treated hair. And for those with colour-treated hair, it’s even more important to use products specifically made for your particular shade.
Hair texture is another factor when choosing shampoo and conditioner. Some specific lines of products are designed to add moisture or others that add volume.
Since your hair is as unique as you are, you should go for a product with a pH that suits your hair the best. You don’t need to use the same brand of shampoo and conditioner, but make sure they’re both formulated to restore your hair pH level.
- Try homemade solutions
- Apple cider vinegar rinse: Mix 1/3 cup vinegar with 4 cups water, pour over your head, let sit for 15 minutes, and then shampoo as usual.
- Baking soda wash: Mix 1 tablespoon baking soda in 3 cups water, pour over your head, and let sit for 15 minutes before shampooing.
- Lemon juice rinse: Mix 2 tablespoons lemon juice with 1 cup water, pour over your head, let sit for 10 minutes, and then rinse well.
- Aloe Vera Gel: The naturally occurring acids in aloe vera gel help restore the hair pH level after shampooing. But not just any aloe will do. You want to use a 100% pure aloe gel.
- Honey: Honey is another natural product that helps to restore the pH balance for hair. It is a humectant, which means that it attracts and retains moisture. Honey also has antibacterial properties and can help to soothe an itchy scalp caused by dandruff or eczema.
How to check the pH level of your hair products?
Trying to find the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair can be a lot like dating. You get into a routine with one set of products, and then, one day, you look in the mirror and realize that your hair is dry and frizzy or greasy and flat.
So, you break up with your current product, start looking around for someone new, and go on what feels like a thousand first dates.
Inevitably, you discover that the key to finding The One isn’t about whether they have a pretty bottle or smell good (although those are important). In reality, it’s all about pH balance for hair.
If you want to check the pH level of your products at home, you can purchase simple pH test strips online or in most drugstores. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully and use them whenever you buy new products to give yourself peace of mind that they will not harm your locks.
Finally
In the end, it’s hard to say which product you should use. There are different schools of thought on this topic, and your hair may react differently than others to specific products. Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are plenty of options out there when it comes to getting your hair pH level balanced and healthy again. You just have to figure out what works for you and your hair. If one method doesn’t work, try another. We hope this post has helped demystify pH balancing and encourage you to try out a few different products yourself and find what works best for you.
Good luck!
