How to choose the best pH shampoo
What is pH and what does it have to do with hair?
PH is the acidity-alkalinity of the scalp. The pH of the scalp is 5.5, while the hair is 3.64. Most shampoos on the market have very different pH values, ranging from pH3.5-pH9. Using a shampoo with the right pH for your hair and scalp can help reduce irritation.
Unfortunately, few people know the pH of their shampoo. Since it is not required to be listed on the label, manufacturers do not pay much attention to pH. Therefore, consumers have no way of knowing the pH of their shampoo unless they ask the manufacturer directly.
Research confirms that the pH of shampoo does affect the health of your hair and scalp. So what pH is considered appropriate?
The pH scale goes from 1-14, with a pH of 7 being neutral (not acidic or basic). Alkaline (base) solutions are those with a pH greater than 7, and acidic (acidic) solutions are those with a pH lower than 7. So, a low pH shampoo means a shampoo with a pH value of 14.< 7 parts of shampoo with high pH are:> That’s 7.
Since the pH of hair is around 3.6 and the pH of the scalp is around 5.5, we can consider shampoos with a pH between 3.5-6 as good options for hair and scalp.
Low pH shampoo (3.5-7)
strength
-Smoothens hair cuticles and reduces frizziness. Suitable for dry and damaged hair from chemical processes.
-Maintains the natural pH balance of hair and scalp, helping to reduce irritation.
weakness
-Removes oil, residue, and dirt on the scalp less than shampoos with high pH values.
Who is it suitable for?
People with relatively dry hair and scalp. Not suitable for people with very oily hair and dandruff.
pH values in various hair products
•Hair bleach pH10-13
•Hair spray ph8-10
•Hair dye ph7-10
•Baking soda ph8-9 (some people use it to bleach their hair)
•Plain water pH7
•Baby shampoo (no more tear) ph7
Surprisingly, according to a survey by the International Journal of Trichology (India), only 38.21% of commercial shampoos have a pH below 5.5. Using shampoos with a pH higher than 5.5 can irritate the scalp, dry, frizzy, tangled hair, leading to hair loss.
Especially hair that has been chemically treated, the scalp will be more irritated and the hair will be drier and damaged. Therefore, the pH suitable for colored hair is 3.5-5.5 because it is a pH-balance range for the hair and scalp, which will help cleanse the hair and scalp gently, reduce frizz, reduce dryness, and prevent hair breakage and tangling. It also helps maintain the natural oils in the hair and scalp, so the hair and scalp remain moist.
Hommkesa natural color shine shampoo has a pH of 5.5 and has a formula developed to be free from harmful substances that are believed to harm hair and scalp, including SLS, Silicone, Alcohol, Paraben, MIT, Formaldehyde, Mineral Oil and Artificial color. The shampoo is therefore suitable for those with sensitive scalps and frizzy, dry, damaged hair. It is another option for those who want a gentle shampoo formula that nourishes hair to return it to being soft and smooth like natural keratin.