What is pH in hair?
We often hear about the pH of hair and cosmetic products.
The pH is the potential of hydrogen, and indicates the concentration of hydrogen ions present in solutions. In other words, it is a unit of measurement that determines the alkalinity or acidity of a substance.
In the case of hair and scalp, understanding pH is key to maintaining a strong, shiny, healthy mane.
The pH scale
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being a chemically neutral pH.
Thus, values ranging from 0 to 6 correspond to the acidic range, while values ranging from 8 to 14 correspond to the alkaline range.
Healthy hair lies in an acidic pH range between 4.5 and 5.5. This slightly acidic level keeps the cuticle closed and compact, which helps to retain moisture, protect the hair fiber and prevent frizz.
The so-called hair pH chart serves as a visual guide to understand where our hair is according to the acidity or alkalinity of the products or treatments to which we subject it. Hair with a balanced pH (4.5-5.5) looks shiny and strong, while when exposed to dyes (pH 9-10) or bleaches (pH 10-11), the cuticle opens to allow chemical action, leaving it more vulnerable.
Therefore, balancing the pH after these processes is essential: using shampoos and conditioners with a slightly acidic pH helps to restore the cuticle, seal the fiber and restore softness. In addition, incorporating nourishing masks or sulfate-free treatments keeps hair in its natural range, preventing dryness, frizz and breakage.
The pH of the hair
Each hair type has a different pH.
Healthy hair, in optimal health, usually has an acidic pH (between 5 or 5.5), so we can say that hair is acidic by nature.
The scalp, on the other hand, has a pH close to 5.5. This acid balance protects the natural microbiome, preventing irritation, dandruff and the proliferation of bacteria or fungi.
Why does the pH of hair become unbalanced?
When the pH of the hair is between 5 and 5.5, the cuticle is closed and smooth, looking healthy and shiny. It is usually virgin hair, which has not been chemically treated.
But when we subject the hair to bleaching or coloring processes, which are very alkaline, the hair tends to alkalinize. This pH imbalance makes our hair look dull and rough. In these cases the cuticle opens more easily, the hair is weaker and tends to frizz.
Other factors that alter the hair's natural pH include:
- The use of shampoos that are too alkaline or contain aggressive sulfates.
- Chlorinated or lime water.
- Excessive use of heat tools.
- Environmental factors such as pollution or intense sun exposure.
When the pH becomes unbalanced, hair can become drier, brittle, split ends and even more prone to hair loss.
How do you know the pH of your hair?
To find out the pH of your hair and scalp you can use pH test strips, the same ones used in cosmetics or aquariums. These strips are applied directly to a sample of wet hair or to the water with which you have rinsed it.
In this way, you will get an approximate measurement and you will know if your hair is in acid balance or if it needs specific products to restore it.
How to restore the pH of your hair?
If your mane has lost shine, elasticity or frizzes easily, it is possible that the pH is altered. To restore it:
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Always use pH-balanced (slightly acidic) shampoos and conditioners.
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Incorporate moisturizing masks to help seal the cuticle and restore softness.
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Avoid excessive use of alkaline products such as hair dyes without proper aftercare.
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Rinse your hair with cold or lukewarm water, never too hot.
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Complement with professional treatments that balance and strengthen the hair fiber.
Benefits of maintaining a balanced pH
Keeping the pH of your hair in balance provides multiple benefits:
- Closed and compact cuticle → softer and shinier hair.
- Better moisture retention → prevents dryness and frizz.
- Greater elasticity and strength → less breakage and split ends.
- Natural protection against bacteria and fungus on the scalp.
- Longer duration of color and straightening treatments.
Super TIP
For our hair to be healthy and pH balanced choose quality products, avoid subjecting the hair to extreme treatments.
At GOA Organics we have shampoos, conditioners and masks free of sulfates and silicones, specifically formulated to respect and maintain the natural pH of the hair. Alternating products like South Bondi, #Aesthetic Conditioner or Tasmania Mask will help you maintain the acid balance and prolong the health of your mane.
