What Does pH Balance Mean in Curly Haircare?
We Often Think About Ingredients but What About pH Balance - The Level of Acid or Alkaline in Our Hair Scalp And Products?
Curly and textured hair is naturally drier, more fragile, and more prone to breakage - making proper care not just important, but essential. At Shedid & Parrish, we understand that one of the most overlooked yet critical elements of healthy haircare is pH balance. This often-misunderstood factor can dramatically impact moisture retention, scalp health, and long-term growth. So, what exactly is pH - and why does it matter so much for your curls?
What Is pH in Haircare?
pH stands for “potential of hydrogen” and is measured on a scale from 0 to 14. The lower the number, the more acidic; the higher, the more alkaline. A pH of 7 is neutral. In haircare, pH affects the hair’s cuticle layer, moisture retention, and the health of your scalp microbiome.
What’s the Natural pH of Our Hair and Scalp?
Healthy hair and scalp have a slightly acidic pH, generally between 4.5 and 5.5. This acidity keeps the cuticle closed, protects against environmental damage, and helps preserve natural oils.
This pH range remains fairly consistent across hair types, but curlier hair, which tends to be drier and more porous, is more sensitive to pH imbalances. Climate and water hardness can also influence the hair’s pH - urban areas with hard water can tilt the balance, leaving curls rough, frizzy, or dry.
Are All Haircare Products pH-Balanced?
Surprisingly, no. Many conventional hair products fall outside the ideal range, especially clarifying shampoos or alkaline treatments designed to open the cuticle. While some of these are useful in moderation (such as when removing heavy buildup or prepping for treatments), frequent use of high-pH products can lead to dryness, breakage, and irritation.
5 Key pH Facts for Healthy Hair
- Acidic products (pH 4.5 - 5.5) help seal the cuticle, locking in moisture and enhancing shine.
- Alkaline products (above pH 7) raise the cuticle, making hair more vulnerable to damage.
- pH-balanced formulas reduce frizz, tangling, and scalp sensitivity.
- Proper pH levels support the scalp’s natural microbiome, reducing flaking and irritation.
- Long-term use of balanced products promotes stronger, more resilient hair growth.
The Shedid & Parrish Difference
At Shedid & Parrish, our commitment to natural, premium, and inclusive haircare means every product is designed with your hair’s health first. Our formulations are pH-balanced to match the natural levels of your scalp and hair, supporting hydration, elasticity, and shine -without harsh chemicals or synthetic disruptors.
Choosing the right pH in your haircare routine isn’t a trend it’s a necessity for the long-term health and vitality of curly and textured hair. At Shedid & Parrish, we believe in caring for your hair from the root up with thoughtful, scientifically backed products that prioritise balance, wellness, and sustainability.
Because when your pH is right, your curls thrive.
Shop our Full Balanced Range at www.shedidandparrish.co.uk
