Meaning ❉ Alkaline cleansers gently lift the hair’s outermost layer, known as the cuticle, by introducing a higher pH environment. This specific action is sometimes employed within a methodical hair care system to deeply cleanse textured strands, preparing them for treatments or gently removing stubborn product accumulation that might otherwise weigh down delicate coils and curls. For individuals with Black and mixed-race hair, whose natural hair fibers possess a distinct architecture, understanding the impact of these higher pH solutions is paramount. Thoughtful application considers the hair’s propensity for moisture retention; consequently, such cleansers are often followed by an acidic rinse or deeply hydrating conditioner to rebalance the hair’s inherent pH and encourage the cuticle to lie smoothly. This careful approach helps maintain the hair’s inherent strength and suppleness, honoring its unique requirements and supporting its consistent vitality.
