10 Best Low pH Shampoos: Acidic pH ≤ 5.5 - Perfect for maintaining a healthy scalp and shiny hair.
- Amilia Carson
- May 24, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Jun 21, 2024
Discover the transformative benefits of low pH shampoos for your hair and scalp health. With a pH range mirroring that of your hair and scalp (4.5 – 5.5)
What is pH ? PH, quantitative measure of the acidity or basicity of aqueous or other liquid solutions. The term, widely used in chemistry, biology, and agronomy, translates the values of the concentration of the hydrogen ion—which ordinarily ranges between about 1 and 10−14 gram-equivalents per litre—into numbers between 0 and 14. In pure water, which is neutral (neither acidic nor alkaline), the concentration of the hydrogen ion is 10−7 gram-equivalents per litre, which corresponds to a pH of 7. A solution with a pH less than 7 is considered acidic; a solution with a pH greater than 7 is considered basic, or alkaline. ( by https://www.britannica.com ) For skin and hair care, the purpose of pH is to maintain the natural protective barrier and ensure product compatibility with the skin and hair’s optimal pH levels, thereby promoting health, preventing irritation, and ensuring effective product performance. |
These shampoos safeguard your hair's cuticle layer and support a thriving scalp microbiome. But how can you identify a shampoo's pH value? Unfortunately, this critical information isn't typically disclosed on product labels due to regulatory gaps and ingredient variations. However, fear not! We've conducted extensive research, delving into over 470 shampoos and hair products, consulting Manufacturing Data Sheets (MSDS), reaching out to manufacturers, and even testing with electronic pH meters. Our findings have culminated in a curated selection of the top 10 low pH shampoos, meticulously chosen to suit diverse hair types and conditions. Say hello to healthier, more vibrant hair with our expertly curated lineup.
And here’s the list …
Shampoo | pH Range |
1. Joico Moisture Recovery Shampoo | 4.5 - 5.5 |
2. Joico Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo | 4.5 - 5.5 |
3. Sojourn Moisture Shampoo | 4.5 - 5.5 |
4. Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo | 4.5 - 6.7 |
5. Nexxus Therappe Moisturizing Shampoo | 4.2 - 6 |
6. DermOrganic Daily Conditioning Shampoo With Argan | 4.5 - 5.5 |
7. BC BONACURE pH 4.5 Color Freeze Micellar Silver Shampoo | 4.5 |
8. Sebamed Everyday Shampoo | 5.5 |
9. Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo | 4.7 |
10. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse | 3.7 |
1. Joico Moisture Recovery Shampoo
The Joico Moisture Recovery shampoo hydrates and nourishes dry and damaged hair.
It contains a unique moisture recovery complex formula that blends bio-diverse hydramine sea complex containing sea kelp, seawater nutrients, and brown algae to restore the hair’s hydrolipid layer
Product Summary
Capacity: 10.1 fl. oz / 300 ml.
pH Range Value: 4.5 – 5.5
Hair Types: All.
Pros
Big bottles (including conditioner).
Rich moisturizing formula.
Reduces frizz.
Improves hair elasticity.
Cons
Contains SLES (Sulfates)
To lower its pH formulation, the Moisture Recovery shampoo contains Citric acid, a natural fruit acid found in citrus fruits.
After using Joico Moisture Recovery Shampoo, my hair felt clean, hydrated, and soft. The shampoo has a pleasant, slightly fruity scent and a rich lathering consistency that does not leave residue or build-up. My hair felt noticeably smoother and more manageable after one use, and my ends felt less dry and brittle.
Overall, I would highly recommend Joico Moisture Recovery Shampoo to anyone with dry, damaged hair who wants to restore moisture and softness to their hair. With its nourishing ingredients and low pH formula, it is a gentle, effective, and low pH option that will help keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
The shampoo sells in 1 L bottle, 300 ml, and you can also get a 50 ml travel size.
How to use it:
Apply to wet hair.
Massage it through.
Rinse thoroughly.
2. Joico Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo
The Joico Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo is a favorite among blondes seeking to maintain luminous hair. Recognized for its excellence, it won the "Best-Colored Hair Duo" at the 2017 Self.com Approved Beauty Awards and the "Best New Professional Haircare Product" at the 2018 Australian Hair Fashion Awards.
Product Summary
Capacity: 33.8 fl. oz / 1000 ml.
ph: 4.5 – 5.5
Pros
Best low pH shampoo for blonde hair.
Rich lather.
Brightens blonde hair for up to 8 weeks.
Makes hair soft.
Seductive scent of Jasmine and Vanilla.
No hydrogen peroxide.
Cons
Poor packaging.
The Joico Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo isn't just another blonde shampoo. It's a nourishing and brightening powerhouse! Packed with ingredients like arginine, monoi, and tamanu oil, this award-winning formula strengthens and hydrates hair, leaving it soft and healthy. Plus, a gentle lightening complex helps enhance blonde radiance and eliminate brassy tones, keeping your blonde locks luminous and fresh.
3. Sojourn Moisture Shampoo
Sojourn Moisture Shampoo goes beyond just hydration. This innovative formula is designed to mimic your hair's natural pH, promoting overall hair health. It features a unique blend of keratin cashmere and cystine amino acids, which work together to:
Strengthen the hair cuticle: This outer layer protects your hair's core and keeps it healthy.
Close the hair cuticle cells: This helps retain moisture and prevent frizz.
Restructure chemical bonds: This improves hair strength and elasticity, making it less prone to breakage.
The result? Luscious, healthy hair that's strong and manageable.
Product Summary
Capacity: 8.5 fl. oz / 250 ml.
pH range: 4.5 – 5.5
Pros
Excellent hydration for damaged hair.
Can be used daily.
Safe for color-treated hair.
No sulfates. No parabens. No alcohol.
Vegan.
Gluten-free.
Cons
Very expensive.
For those seeking similar benefits at a more accessible price, Nexxus Therappe
Shampoo offers a compelling alternative. It may not be as luxurious, but it can still provide excellent hydration and repair for damaged hair.
4. Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo
Looking for a shampoo that pampers and protects? Look no further than Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo! This popular formula has gained attention for its unique blend of natural ingredients and science-backed benefits. It promises to:
Rejuvenate and hydrate: Give your hair a healthy dose of moisture for a soft, manageable feel.
Maintain healthy pH balance: This shampoo works with your hair's natural acidity to keep your scalp healthy and comfortable.
With Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo, you can enjoy the luxurious feel of a tropical escape while promoting healthy hair from root to tip.
Product Summary
Capacity: 13.5 fl. oz/ 400 ml.
pH values range: 4.5 – 6.7
Pros
Good value for money.
Rich and luxurious lather.
No paraben.
Does not leave residues.
Delicious coconut scent.
Cons
Contains SLES and SLS.
Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo isn't just another pretty bottle! This science-backed formula boasts a unique blend of ingredients designed to mimic your hair's natural pH balance. Key ingredients include:
Aloe Vera (pH 4.5 – 5.5): Soothes the scalp and promotes hydration.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine (pH 5): A gentle cleansing agent that maintains healthy pH.
Citric Acid (pH 3): Helps balance the formula and adds shine to hair.
Together, these ingredients create a shampoo with a pH range close to your hair's natural state, promoting overall hair health.
Beyond Balance: Nourishment & Indulgence
But the benefits don't stop there! This shampoo also features:
Coconut Milk: This natural powerhouse nourishes and hydrates hair for a healthy, manageable feel.
Gentle Sulfates: While sulfates can sometimes be harsh, here they are used in a low concentration for a mild cleansing experience.
Botanical Ingredients: Endorsed by the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens (UK) for their natural goodness.
0% Parabens & Colorants: Free of harsh chemicals for a worry-free experience.
Lingering Coconut Scent: Enjoy a touch of paradise long after washing your hair.
Available on its own or as part of a 3-piece set with conditioner and hair mask, Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo offers a complete hair care routine for healthy, hydrated hair that smells amazing.
5. Nexxus Therappe Moisturizing Shampoo
Nexxus Therappe Shampoo steps up as a champion for dry, brittle hair. Its hero ingredient – the patented ProteinFusion formula – is a game-changer for those struggling with breakage. This innovative formula delivers deep moisture and 24-hour moisture retention, leaving your hair:
Supple and manageable: Say goodbye to straw-like strands and hello to touchable softness.
Revitalized and healthy: Nexxus Therappe helps restore hair's health and strength, reducing breakage.
If you're looking for a solution to combat dryness and breakage, Nexxus Therappe Shampoo is definitely worth considering.
Product Summary
Capacity: 33.8 fl. oz / 1000 ml.
pH Range: 4.2 – 6.
Pros
24-hour moisture retention.
Improves hair elasticity with ProteinFusion.
Reduces static and frizz in hair.
Salon-quality product.
No silicone.
Cons
Unscented.
Expensive.
Contains sulfates.
Many traditional shampoos lack pH regulation, which can worsen dry and brittle hair. Their high pH levels disrupt the natural balance (around 4.5-5.5) of your hair and scalp, leading to:
Dryness
Frizz
Scalp irritation
Nexxus Therappe: A pH-Balanced Solution
Nexxus Therappe Shampoo offers a scientifically-backed solution for dry, brittle hair. Here's how it tackles the problem:
Low pH Formula: Maintains the natural balance of your hair and scalp, preventing dryness and irritation.
Gentle Cleansing: Effectively cleanses without stripping essential oils, preserving the negative electrical charge on your hair's surface. This negative charge helps repel dirt, prevent tangles, and reduce frizz. High pH shampoos can disrupt this charge.
ProteinFusion Technology: Strength & Repair
The hero of Nexxus Therappe is its patented ProteinFusion formula. Key ingredients include:
Elastin Protein: Enhances hair strength and elasticity.
Green Caviar Extracts: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to promote hair health.
ProteinFusion works by mimicking your hair's natural composition, repairing and rebuilding each hair fiber with essential nutrients and moisture. This helps restore the delicate balance hair needs to stay strong and healthy.
Personal Experience & Recommendation:
While Nexxus Therappe impressed with its thick, deeply moisturizing formula compared to other hair repair solutions, it does contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate. For this reason, daily use, especially on color-treated hair, isn't recommended.
However, if you use it twice a week, you'll likely experience a significant improvement in your hair's texture and manageability.
6. DermOrganic Daily Conditioning Shampoo With Argan
Dermorganic Shampoo isn't your average hair cleanser! It combines gentle cleansing with powerful ingredients to leave your hair feeling healthy and beautiful. Here's what makes it special:
Balanced pH (4.5-5.5): This shampoo mimics your hair's natural pH, promoting overall scalp health and preventing dryness.
Facial-Cleanser Inspired Formula: Just like facial cleansers are gentle on your skin, Dermorganic Shampoo cleanses your hair without stripping away essential oils.
Beyond Cleanliness: A Nourishment Powerhouse
Dermorganic Shampoo goes beyond just cleaning. It's packed with a blend of luxurious ingredients to nourish and strengthen your hair:
100% Pure Moroccan Argan Oil: Rich in nutrients to add shine and promote hair health.
Protein-Packed Keratin: Strengthens hair and helps prevent breakage.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids & Panthenol: Provide deep hydration for a soft, manageable feel.
For Complete Hair Regeneration:
The formula also includes:
Natural Lipids: Replenish and strengthen your hair's natural moisture barrier.
Aloe Vera: Soothes the scalp and promotes a healthy scalp environment.
Rice Amino Acids: Similar to the proteins in hair, they help repair and rebuild damaged strands.
Vitamin B5 (Biotin): Supports healthy hair growth and strengthens hair follicles.
With this unique combination of gentle cleansing and powerful ingredients, Dermorganic Shampoo can help you achieve healthy, nourished hair that looks and feels its best.
Product Summary
Capacity: 33.8 fl. oz / 1000 ml.
pH: 4.5 – 5.5.
Scent: Argan.
Pros
Big bottle.
Contains 100% pure Moroccan argan oil.
Enhances hair texture.
Sulfate-free, gluten-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free.
No animal fats.
Lathers well.
Cons
Doesn’t smell great, but quality makes up for it.
Dermorganic Shampoo goes beyond basic cleansing to offer a truly nourishing experience for your hair. Here's why it stands out:
Clean Formula: Free from harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, artificial preservatives, dyes, and colors, making it a safe choice for everyone.
Nourishing Benefits You'll Notice:
Reduced Frizz: Say goodbye to frizzy flyaways and hello to smooth, manageable hair.
Soft & Easier to Style: Experience a noticeable improvement in hair texture after just a few weeks of use.
Hydration & Shine: This gentle formula nourishes without stripping, leaving your hair feeling soft and radiant.
Suitable for Sensitive Scalps:
If you have a sensitive scalp, Dermorganic Shampoo could be your new best friend. Its clean formula is designed to be gentle and non-irritating.
Beyond the Benefits:
Pleasant (Though Not Universal) Fragrance: While the scent might not appeal to everyone, the benefits outweigh this minor detail.
Convenient Packaging: Comes in a large bottle with a pump dispenser for easy use.
Thick Consistency and Rich Lather: Applies easily and lathers well even without SLS.
Daily Use Friendly: This gentle shampoo is suitable for daily cleansing.
How to Use:
Massage into wet hair.
Let sit for a few minutes.
Rinse thoroughly.
Follow with Dermorganic's hydrating conditioner for an extra boost of moisture
7. BC BONACURE pH 4.5 Color Freeze Micellar Silver Shampoo
Keeping your gray or lightened hair looking its best can be a challenge. BC Bonacure offers a solution specifically formulated for these hair types:
Low pH Formula: Maintains the optimal pH balance for color-treated hair, promoting overall hair health and reducing the risk of color fading.
Neutralizes Brassiness: Contains blue-violet pigments that deposit on the hair to counteract brassy tones, keeping your blonde cool and radiant.
Color Protection: Helps "freeze" color pigments within the hair shaft, minimizing fading and extending the vibrancy of your color.
With BC Bonacure, you can enjoy beautiful, cool-toned blonde hair that stays luminous and healthy-looking longer.
Product Summary
Capacity: 33.8 fl. oz / 1000 ml.
pH Value: 4.5
Hair Type: Gray and lightened Hair.
Pros
Color freeze technology.
Ideal for over-processed, high porosity, and colored treated hair.
Adds shimmer and shine to white hair.
Contains blue-violet dye for cooling tones.
Big bottle.
Cons
Contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate.
Maintaining the vibrancy of white or gray hair requires special care. BC Bonacure offers a premium solution that tackles the specific needs of these hair types:
Gentle Cleansing with Micellar Water: Micelles act like tiny magnets, attracting and removing dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping essential oils. This gentle cleansing helps maintain both hair health and color vibrancy.
pH Balanced Formula: The unique surfactant molecules in micellar water help maintain the natural pH level of your hair and scalp, further promoting hair health and reducing the risk of color fading.
Neutralizes Brassiness: As mentioned previously, BC Bonacure contains blue-violet pigments that help counteract brassy tones, keeping your blonde cool and radiant.
Color Protection: "Freezes" color pigments within the hair shaft, minimizing fading and extending the vibrancy of your color.
Is it Worth the Price?
While BC Bonacure comes at a premium price point, it offers a unique combination of gentle cleansing, color protection, and brassiness neutralization specifically formulated for white and gray hair. If maintaining the health and vibrancy of your lightened or gray hair is a priority, BC Bonacure could be a worthwhile investment.
8. Sebamed Everyday Shampoo
The pH of the Sebamed Everyday shampoo is 5.5.
It is soap-free, alkali-free, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for daily use.
Product Summary
Capacity: 6.8 fl. oz / 200 ml.
pH value: 5.5
Pros
Dermatologically tested.
Hypoallergenic.
Does not contain sulfates, sodium, and paraben.
Reasonable price. Suitable for daily use.
Nourishing and moisturizing.
Cons
Funky smell.
Does not work well for oily hair.
Harsh shampoos can damage your scalp's natural defenses. Sebamed Everyday Shampoo offers a gentler, science-backed solution.
The pH 5.5 Power:
Healthy Scalp, Happy Hair: Its pH 5.5 formula mimics healthy skin, promoting scalp health and hair growth.
Soothe the Itch: Free from harsh chemicals, it gently cleanses without irritation.
Moisture Magic: Nourishing ingredients like glycerin and panthenol keep hair soft and manageable.
Science & Customer Love:
Over 100 studies support Sebamed's pH 5.5 approach.
MakeupAlley users praise its effectiveness for dry scalp conditions.
Ready for Relief?
Wet hair, massage in shampoo, lather, rinse.
Experience the Sebamed difference!
9. Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo
The Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo is an excellent option for anyone seeking a high-quality low pH shampoo. We verified its pH value manually and recorded a reading of nearly 4.7, confirming the product is low pH.
Product Summary
Capacity: 8 fl. oz / 236.5 ml.
pH: 4.5 – 5.0
Scent: Cherry almond.
Pros
Sulfate Free, Paraben Free, and Formaldehyde Free.
No mineral oils – Residue-free.
100% vegan and cruelty-free.
High-quality natural ingredients and essential oils.
Conditions and detangles the hair.
Reduces frizz.
It can be used daily.
Cons
Too small for people with long hair.
Dryness, frizz, or damage got you down? Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo goes beyond "gentle" for all hair types, including curly, natural, bleached, and even damaged locks.
Daily Dose of Moisture: Ultra-gentle formula hydrates, smooths frizz, and refreshes your scalp – perfect for daily use!
No Harsh Stripping: Unlike sulfates, this shampoo cleanses without dryness or irritation. It's also free of build-up causing ingredients.
Clean & Cruelty-Free: 100% vegan, certified cruelty-free, and free of parabens, sulfates, and formaldehyde.
Nourishing Power: Argan oil and pumpkin extracts provide rich omega fatty acids for deep moisturization.
Gentle Cleansing: Organic botanical extracts cleanse effectively without stripping natural oils.
Pleasant for All: Subtle cherry almond scent is perfect for everyone.
Only downside? You might wish for a larger size!
Give your hair the moisture boost it deserves with Acure!
10. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
The dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar rinse is used after shampooing and conditioning the hair. It is applied to the hair and left on for up to 3 minutes before rinsing.
You can immediately tell that this hair rinse is low pH because its base ingredient is apple cider vinegar.
Product Summary
Capacity: 8.5 fl. oz / 250 ml.
pH Value: 3.7
Pros
No parabens, SLS, and SLES.
Vegan.
Fresh lavender scent.
Makes hair color look vibrant.
Cons
Expensive.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Shiny Hair? Unveiling the DpHue ACV Rinse
Skip the harsh chemicals! DpHue ACV Rinse uses natural apple cider vinegar (pH 2.5-3.5) to gently:
Exfoliate your scalp: Unclog hair follicles for healthy growth.
Seal hair cuticles: Say goodbye to frizz and hello to shine!
Bonus: The color-lock formula keeps dyed hair vibrant, and the uplifting lavender scent is a treat!
Just a heads up: The price might be a bit steep for the bottle size
Low pH Shampoo: The Secret to Healthy, Happy Hair
Why Use a Low Ph Shampoo?
Forget harsh chemicals! Low pH shampoos are the new best friend for your hair and scalp. Here's why:
Frizz Fighter: Regular shampoos can make hair frizzy by disrupting its natural balance. Low pH shampoos keep things smooth, resulting in shinier, more manageable hair.
Scalp Savior: Low pH helps your scalp maintain its natural defenses, fighting bad bacteria and preventing itchiness and dandruff.
Color Confidence: Colored hair needs extra love. Low pH shampoos lock in color by keeping the outer hair layer smooth, preventing color from washing away.
Sensitive Scalp Soother: Low pH shampoos are gentler, making them a great choice for people with dry or sensitive scalps.
Basically, low pH shampoos are like a gentle cleanser for your hair. They keep your scalp happy and healthy, which translates to beautiful, healthy hair
Is Low pH Shampoo Same as Ph Balanced Shampoo?
A pH-balanced and low pH shampoo are similar because they are formulated to be in the same pH range as the human skin and hair.
This balance is achieved through slightly acidic ingredients, depending on the formulation.
A low pH can be considered a type of pH-balanced shampoo. But not all pH-balanced shampoos are low pH. Some may have an upper range of 6 or 7, close to neutral. In contrast, a low pH shampoo has an upper range value of 5.5.
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