What is pH?
pH is an expressive figure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. This is measured on a logarithmic scale of 1 to 14, where 7 is neutral and anything below is acidic, and above is alkaline in nature. When it comes to hair, this pH level is a major factor in its health and strength. Understanding the pH level of hair can help you in identifying what type of products to use, to keep it healthy and strong. The natural pH level of hair is around 3.5 to 5.5, making it acidic in nature. Hair is strong and healthy in its natural state, so it is important to maintain this pH level. In this blog, let us understand the role of pH balance in hair care and how it helps in maintaining healthy hair along with some expert advice.
The Role of pH Balance in Hair Health
The pH of the hair is 3.5 to 4, while the pH of the scalp is a little more acidic 5 to 5.5. In simple terms, the acidic level in the hair will allow the cuticle layer to contract, this is hair’s protective layer which is responsible for its strength. When the pH level of hair becomes more alkaline, it opens up the cuticle layer resulting in loss of moisture. This will make the hair frizzy and dry making it more prone to breakage. Hence, pH plays an important role apart from the diet in keeping the hair intact and achieving maximum benefits.
What happens when the pH balance in the hair is disrupted?
People tend to assume that since the hair is acidic in nature, they should use acidic products. This is a common misconception among most people, that balance is important. It is all about finding the right balance, different people’s scalps and hair have different pH levels, and based on this they should choose the product. Any disruption in this balance will cause damage, and dryness, and eventually lead to breakage.
Expert advice on how to maintain healthy hair
After all this knowledge about the pH level and the balance, you might be wondering how to keep healthy and damage-free. Here is expert advice on how to maintain healthy hair:
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Know your hair and scalp
Understand the nature of your hair and scalp, and if possible get your hair tested for pH value. A professional hair stylist will help you measure the pH of your hair and scalp using a litmus paper. If this is not possible, know the nature of your hair by its symptoms
- If you are experiencing an itchy scalp along with dry and frizzy hair, it is more likely that your hair is alkaline. In these cases use a mildly acidic shampoo, this can help you resolve this problem.
- People with curly hair experience natural frizziness due to slightly opened cuticles. These people also need to use mildly acidic shampoos to maintain their hair health.
- If you are experiencing high dandruff, then you should consider using alkaline products. This will help remove the excessive oils in hair which supports the dandruff growth.
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Check the pH of hair products
After knowing the pH level of your scalp and hair, before deciding to use any hair products such as serums, or shampoo check the labels for the pH level. This can help you choose the product that best fits your unique needs. This can help you in maintaining healthy and strong hair in the long run.
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Professional help
If you are experiencing excessive hair fall or kind of hair problems consistently, it is recommended that you consult a hair care specialist for a detailed analysis. Since any damage to the hair is irreversible, it is advised to reach out to professional help as soon as possible.
Conclusion
All in all, it is important to understand the concept of pH levels to maintain healthy and strong hair in the long run. The natural pH level of the hair and the scalp is important, which is why using products exclusively suitable for your hair type is crucial. Use natural remedies such as aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar, and conditioners to keep your hair smooth, shiny, and thick in the long run. Consult a hair specialist immediately if your hair problems are persistent.
Dr. Shahid Shamsher is one of India’s first certified Trichologist practicing in the field of Trichology for 27 years and is recognized as one of the Best Hair Doctor in Bangalore. He is the only Trichologist in India to be simultaneously certified from the U.K, Australia, and India.
Dr. Shahid Shamsher is one of India’s first certified Trichologist practicing in the field of Trichology for 27 years and is recognized as one of the Best Hair Doctor in Bangalore. He is the only Trichologist in India to be simultaneously certified from the U.K, Australia, and India.
