Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Shampoos can influence scalp condition. Patients with hair loss problems frequently ask physician which shampoo is suitable for their conditions. Objective: To assess the pH of commonly available shampoos for recommendations to patients with hair loss problems. Methods: Shampoos in the market were measured for the pH using a pH meter and pH-indicator strips. Results: Mild shampoo samples gave the pH between 7 and 7.8. Shampoos for dry hair showed the pH range between 6.8 and 7.1. Except for one sample containing salicylic acid which gave a pH of 3, other medicated shampoos showed the pH between 6 and 7.5. Herbal shampoos gave the pH between 6.8 and 7.7. Shampoos labeled as anti-hair loss shampoos showed the pH between 6.3 and 8. Conclusions: The pH of shampoo depends on the composition and formulation of that shampoo. Adding other active medical ingredients for treatment of scalp conditions is not the only factor causing variation of the pH. Many factors in shampoos besides the pH may cause scalp irritation, such as type of surfactants and amount of scalp surface residue.
Source: Thai Journal of Dermatology
Institutions: Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
Language: English
Topic: Hair Growth and Disorders
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7218081616