What is pH in hair?
pH (potential hydrogen) measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a substance and determines whether it is acidic, neutral, or alkaline. For hair, pH plays a crucial role in its health and appearance.
The pH scale
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14:
- 0 to 6: Acidic range
- 7: Chemically neutral
- 8 to 14: Alkaline range
Hair pH
Healthy hair has an acidic pH, usually between 5 and 5.5, which means the cuticle (the outer layer of the hair) is closed, smooth, and shiny. This balance is typical for virgin hair that has not undergone chemical treatments.
What disrupts hair pH?
Chemical processes like bleaching, coloring, or straightening alter the hair's natural pH, making it more alkaline.
- Alkaline hair:
- Open cuticle
- Dull and rough appearance
- More prone to frizz
- Weaker and more susceptible to damage
