Why is pH important for hair and skin health?

pH and your hair

The pH level of our shower water plays a critical role in the overall health of our hair. Human hair has a natural pH of around 4.5 to 5.5, meaning it is slightly acidic. This acidity helps to keep the hair cuticle—its outermost layer—tight and smooth. A smooth cuticle reflects light, giving hair its natural shine. Showering with water that has a pH that is too high (alkaline, pH > 7.0) can cause the cuticle to open, leading to:

• Frizz: Open cuticles lead to water entering the hair shaft, causing frizz.
• Dryness: Alkaline water strips the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.
• Damage: Exposed cuticles make hair more prone to breakage and split ends.
• Dullness: Alkaline water will reduce your hair’s natural shine.

Conversely, products with a pH that is too low (acidic, pH < 3.0) can cause hair to become stiff and less elastic.

pH and your skin

Our skin is our body’s largest organ, and maintaining its health is crucial to our overall wellbeing. One key factor in skin health is pH balance: Like our hair, healthy skin has a natural pH of 4.5 to 5.5, meaning it is slightly acidic. This acidity is maintained by the skin’s "acid mantle," a thin film on the surface of the skin that acts as a barrier against bacteria, viruses, and other potential contaminants.

The acid mantle plays several vital roles in skin health:

• Protection: It prevents harmful bacteria and viruses from entering the skin.
• Moisture Retention: It helps retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing dryness.
• Barrier Function: It protects against environmental pollutants and irritants.

Shower water with an inappropriate pH can disrupt the acid mantle, leading to:

• Dryness: High pH (alkaline) products can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and flakiness.
• Irritation: Disruption of the acid mantle can lead to redness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
• Breakouts: An imbalanced pH can promote the growth of harmful bacteria, leading to acne and other skin issues.

Conclusion

To maintain healthy, radiant hair and skin, it’s important to shower in water with a suitable pH. The right pH will help to protect your hair and skin and keep you looking and feeling best. The Citrus Filtered Shower Head not only removes harmful chemicals from your water, but also slightly reduces the pH, ensuring a gentle and balanced cleanse every time you shower.