Meaning ❉ Alkaline cleansing refers to the careful application of products possessing a pH above the natural acidity of textured hair and scalp, typically beyond 5.5. This process, while sometimes considered a deep clean, can gently yet deliberately prompt the opening of the hair’s delicate cuticle layers. For coils and curls, this action temporarily alters the hair shaft’s inherent protective shield, potentially leading to increased water absorption and subsequent moisture depletion if not thoughtfully addressed. Understanding this precise interaction is foundational for those cultivating a systematic approach to maintaining textured hair health and promoting its vitality. Practical application suggests a measured, occasional use, perhaps for specific clarifying needs, always followed by an acidic rinse to restore the hair’s inherent balance and gently encourage the cuticle to lay flat, thereby preserving the hair’s structural integrity and natural luster.
