What is hair pH and why is it important to me?
The pH level – along with proteins and hydration – determines the health, strength, length, shape, and color of our hair. To keep hair looking beautiful and in top shape, we need to ensure the pH level stays within the desired range.
What is hair pH and why is it important for me?
Let's recall what we learned in chemistry class – the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14; 0 to 6 is the acidic side of the spectrum, 7 is neutral, and 8 to 14 is alkaline.
Our hair's natural pH is somewhat acidic, around 4.5 to 5.5 – these values are optimal for the hair. The only problem? Most products we treat our hair with disrupt this delicate pH balance and send us to the alkaline side of the scale. This includes both more aggressive chemical processes like coloring or lightening, and seemingly harmless products like some shampoos.
The end result? The outer layer of the hair is damaged, the cuticle scales begin to lift, and the hair loses strength and breaks. Not to mention, a more alkaline state can affect bacteria and natural oils on the scalp and cause dandruff.
How do I maintain my hair's pH within healthy limits?
Choose hair cosmetics very carefully and trust only brands that understand how to care for your hair's correct pH balance. Often, natural shampoos, formulated with natural ingredients and without additives, are more alkaline and raise the hair's pH. This can make the hair drier and lead to breakage. That's when it's time to switch to more acidic products.
But choosing hair cosmetics doesn't have to be complicated, and you don't need to spend a lot of time caring for your hair's pH. Simply choose cosmetics that will take care of your hair long-term and regulate its pH level. Our experience shows that Redken products are an excellent solution. Redken shampoos are pH-balanced, while conditioners are slightly acidic – this is a uniquely developed combination that ultimately maintains the ideal pH level. Even better, with Redken, you can find the exact product line for your hair, whether it's fine, damaged, dry, or color-treated.
