Hair washing may seem like a routine procedure, but according to expert Lena de Pons, many people are actually doing it wrong. De Pons, a pharmacist based in Spain, emphasizes the importance of knowing how to wash our hair properly in order to achieve a beautiful shine. She recommends using a shampoo with an acidic pH to seal the cuticle and help reflect light. The cuticle of the hair is made up of flat cells that protect the inner structures of the hair. An alkaline pH can open the cuticle, while an acidic shampoo can help the cuticle contract, making hair look shiny.
Understanding the pH of the environment we are in can completely modify the structure of our hair. An alkaline pH can open the cuticle, while an acidic pH can help the cuticle contract, giving hair a smooth and shiny appearance. When the cuticle is stacked alongside each other, it reflects light, giving the appearance of a hair glow. Permanent hair color treatments or bleaching processes involve ammonia, which is alkaline and opens the cuticle to allow color to penetrate the hair cortex. Using acidic shampoos, conditioners, and treatments can help the cuticle close and reflect light, enhancing the shine of the hair.
When creating a shampoo, formulators consider the correct application of the product. Most shampoos are designed to clean the scalp and should be applied to the scalp only, according to de Pons. Many people tend to imitate the gestures seen in television commercials, where they scrub and scramble their hair, which is actually incorrect. Using the shampoo as intended can help achieve the best results. It is important to apply the shampoo to the scalp and gently massage it in rather than focusing on scrubbing the hair strands.
De Pons recommends using a shampoo with an acidic pH to seal the cuticle and reflect light, giving the hair a shiny appearance. This simple change in shampoo choice can make a big difference in the overall look and health of the hair. By understanding the science behind hair care and the role of pH in hair structure, individuals can make informed choices about the products they use. Remembering to apply the shampoo to the scalp and avoiding excessive scrubbing can also help maintain the health and shine of the hair.
Knowing how to properly wash our hair can make a significant impact on its appearance. By using a shampoo with an acidic pH and applying it to the scalp as intended, we can seal the cuticle and improve the shine of our hair. Understanding the effects of pH on hair structure can help us make better choices when it comes to hair care products. With these simple changes in our hair washing routine, we can achieve healthier, shinier hair that reflects light beautifully.
