 | Kim McIntosh, a former graduate of Xenon Int'l. School of Hair Design serves as the school’s Director and is a shareholder in the business. She holds a Cosmetology, Esthetics and Instructor's license in Kansas and Nebraska. She has worked behind the chair and managed some of the most prominent salons in the Wichita area. As an educator, her primary goal has been to provide the beauty industry with successful licensed professionals. Having served in the past as Second Vice-President on the Board of Directors for the National Cosmetology Association of Kansas, Kim is currently a Director on the national board for the American Association of Cosmetology Schools. You may contact Kim at (316) 943-5516. |
Beauty & Fashion
2003-04-01 11:53:00
How does pH work?
ANSWER: pH is the abbreviation for potential for hydrogen. The pH of any solution is the measure of its hydrogen-ion concentration. The higher the pH reading: the more alkaline. The lower the pH reading: the more acidic. The pH range is from 0 to 14, with 7.0 being neutral. Anything above 7.0 is alkaline, anything below 7.0 is considered acidic.The pH balance for hair, skin and nails is 4.5 to 5.5. Therefore it is important to use products within this range to maintain a healthy pH level or balance.In hair care, shampoos lean toward the alkaline level in order to open the cuticle layer (the outermost layer of the hair) to allow the detergent or cleaning solution to enter the hair shaft. Notice that the directions on the bottle will instruct you to always shampoo twice. This isn't to sell more products! The first shampoo lifts the dirt and oils from the scalp and hair, and the second shampoo removes the dirt and oils and washes it down the drain. Conditioners are more acidic. This closes the cuticle back down, locking in the moisture and protects the hair. A closed cuticle layer reflects light, and makes the hair appear shiny. The same theory applies to skin care. Soaps are very harsh, or alkaline. Soaps open the pores of the skin to remove dirt and oils, but the caustic result strips the acid mantle, which is a protective barrier and natural moisturizer. Your face may appear "squeaky-clean" but it is left vulnerable to dirt, oils and disease causing bacteria. Always use a pH balanced skin cleanser. Never rub or tug at the skin. Never scrub! The best materials to use on the face are your hands. Lather gently in a circular motion, rinse with tepid water, and blot with a fluffy towel. Follow with a toner to close the pores, and always finish with a moisturizer...regardless of age. Most moisturizers contain a sunscreen and serve as a primer for make-up.
