Q&A

Did you know that a balanced pH plays a key role in hair care formulas? In fact, it’s essential to the overall health of your hair and scalp.

PH 101

But what is pH exactly? It’s a scale to measure the levels of acidity and alkalinity of substances. This scale ranges from 0 to 14, 0 being the most acidic and 14 the most alkaline. A neutral pH is 7. A healthy hair’s pH varies from 4.5 to 5.5. To benefit the hair, hair care products must be from 3.5 to 5.5., meaning acidic.

HOW DOES PH AFFECT THE HAIR?

When a product’s pH is higher than 7, the surface of the hair becomes weak and the cuticle scales open, a bit like a pinecone back. The hair then becomes porous. This alteration of the hair structure results in significant damage: dryness, breakage, frizz and even dandruff.

Nevertheless, alkaline care products have their place. Permanent hair dyes, for example, open the cuticle to deposit pigments in the hair fibre. However, if balance is not then re-established, the colour will fade prematurely. The colour molecules will, in fact, quickly escape with successive shampooings.

BENEFITS OF A BALANCED PH?

When the pH value is 6 or less, the cuticle contracts and closes. The smooth hair surface will reflect light. The hair thus has a lustrous appearance. Unlike hair having a porous structure, it will better retain hydration as well as colour pigments.

So, according to this logic, the more acidic the product, the better, right? Careful! An overly acidic hair care product will damage the hair as much as an alkaline product, thus the importance of a balanced pH routine. In short, an adequate protein and hydration level combined with an adjusted pH will be crucial in your hair’s appearance and health.

HOW CAN I KNOW IF MY HAIR CARE IS BALANCED?

The ideal pH for hair is 3.6 and 5.5 for the scalp. But here’s the thing: most cleansers are alkaline. But no need for panic! To remedy the situation, acidic ingredients such as glycolic acid are added to re-establish balance. Pair your shampoo with an acidic conditioner to bring out the best of your hair’s shine. If you have red, orange or copper hair, choose a balm adapted to coloured hair to preserve intensity.

Note that hair care manufacturers are not required to indicate pH level of their products. But sharing this information is becoming an increasingly popular practice to respond to customers wanting to know the details of the ingredients in their cosmetics.

Here are some companies that offer balanced pH hair care products:

• Aloxxi
• Pureology
• Kenra Professional
• Redken

By paying attention to the pH of your daily hair care products, you’ll see an improvement in your hair’s appearance and softness.