We have so many products and our go-to curly regimens, but sometimes we do not notice that we can misuse some of our products and practices. Dilution is a method that can be easily overlooked and can definitely play a huge factor in the health of our hair and scalp. Why should you dilute certain products? Some products or ingredients can create an imbalance with the pH level of your hair and scalp.
The pH levels are the measurement of the acidity or alkalinity of an ingredient. The scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral (water”>. Numbers that fall under 7 are considered more acidic and numbers that are over 7 are considered to be more alkaline. The scalp usually has a pH level that ranges between 4.5 and 5.5. Curlies tend to use a lot of products, including shampoos, conditioners, and stylers, and these products have a variety of pH levels, which can cause a pH imbalance. It is important to be aware of these pH levels because it can cause scalp conditions such as dandruff, fungi, and even hair loss. Here are some products that you should dilute before use.
Castile Soap
Castile soap is an olive oil based soap that has been used for many purposes including shampoos, body washes, and household cleaning agents. Popular brands include Dr. Bronner’s and Kirk’s. Castile soap is alkaline and can range between 8-10 on the pH scale. Castile soap is concentrated, so a little can go a long way. However, if you use the soap without diluting, it can leave the hair really dry and stripped of moisture. It is best to thoroughly rinse the hair before use and make sure your hair is drenched. A great way to measure is 3 parts water, 1 part castile soap.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV”> rinses are no stranger to the natural hair community. It is used as a healthy and natural alternative to cleanse the scalp, remove product buildup, and to enhance the hair’s shine. Apply cider vinegar is considered acidic and ranges between 2-3 on the pH scale. Apple cider vinegar can be used to help restore the pH balance of your hair. But it is best to dilute before use because it is still acidic. It can irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. Another reason that you may want to dilute before using on your hair and skin is if the smell is too strong for your preference.
Harsh Shampoos
Diluting a harsh shampoo before application will allow you to receive the best results while cleansing. Some curlies have no luck even with the sulfate-free shampoos so this a great tip. Diluting the shampoo with water will allow the product to lather and distribute evenly throughout your hair, which helps with cleansing and removing product buildup. It can also prevent the shampoo from stripping the moisture out of the hair and that squeaky-clean feeling with your curls. Diluting is also a good idea if you are using a more concentrated shampoo. Another benefit is that it allows your shampoos to last longer, which means saving more money.
Conclusion
Diluting the mentioned products will help the overall health of your curls and scalp. It will keep the pH level of your curls balance, which will help promote healthy hair growth. A simple method, such as diluting, can play a huge role in your regimens and can make products more effective for your hair journey.
Which products do you dilute?
