10 Best Low pH Shampoos: Acidic pH ≤ 5.5 🍋

Written by Shehnaz Shirazi

Reviewed by Tina Moretti

Updated on November 06, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.

Shampoos formulated at low pH can help protect the hair’s cuticle layer and the scalp’s microbiome. ^[1]

That’s because low pH shampoos have the same pH range of the hair and the scalp: 4.5 – 5.5.

But how do you find the pH value of a shampoo?

It’s never shown on product labels because no regulations require manufacturers to disclose them. Plus, pH values can vary depending on the product’s ingredients.

So, what’s a consumer to do?

Well, there is a way to find out if a shampoo is low pH or not – The product’s Manufacturing Data Sheet (MSDS).

We’ve researched over 470 shampoos and hair products, gathered their MSDS, asked manufacturers for details directly, and tested some with an electronic pH meter to build a database of hair products and their related pH values. Out of this list, we found only 28 low pH shampoos. We filtered out 15 that had the least chemicals and better reviews.

To wrap up, we selected 10 of the best low pH shampoos catering to different hair types and conditions.

And here’s the list …

1. 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.

Sebamed Everyday Shampoo

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Many customers have reported significant benefits from using this shampoo, such as:

• Improved Hair and Scalp Condition: It restores and maintains the natural acid mantle of the scalp, vital for healthy hair growth and a healthy scalp.
• Soft and Manageable Hair: Users rave about its gentle and caring formula that makes a noticeable difference to their hair’s texture, leaving it soft, smooth, and easy to manage.
• Reduced Skin Irritation: The shampoo is free from sulfates, sodium chloride, and parabens, commonly found in regular shampoos, and known to cause scalp irritation and dryness. It uses plant-based cleansing agents that are gentle on both hair and skin.
• Nourishing and Moisturizing: It contains natural ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol, and allantoin, which nourish and moisturize the hair and scalp. These ingredients strengthen the hair, reduce split ends, and promote healthy hair growth. They also soothe and calm the scalp, reducing inflammation and irritation.

Sebamed products improve the natural hydro-lipid layer of the skin, also known as the skin’s acid mantle. The acid mantle is a thin coating of oil and water that lines the skin’s surface. It plays an important role in protecting it from bacteria, toxins, and oxidizers while preventing dehydration.

Sebamed USA claims its pH 5.5 products have undergone over 100 scientific studies to prove their efficacy. The late Dr. Heinz Maurer, who pioneered the concept of “soap without soap” cleansing products with a pH of 5.5, won numerous awards in dermatology for his life’s work.

The Sebamed Everyday Shampoo follows the same formula as its clinically proven soap-free and alkali-free products. It contains minimal ingredients, is suitable for all hair types, and it keeps the scalp healthy.

Customers on MakeupAlley rave about its effectiveness in healing dry scalp conditions, such as eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff . One customer even compared it to Neutrogena T-Gel coal tar shampoo and claimed that the Sebamed shampoo was significantly better after using it for only a few weeks.

Instructions for use:

• Wet your hair.
• Massage a small amount of shampoo onto the scalp.
• Lather the shampoo and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly.

2. 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.

Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo

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Compared to the aforementioned Sebamed shampoo, which is more suited for people with dry scalp conditions, the Acure hydrating shampoo is suitable for all, including curly, natural, bleached, and damaged hair.

Its ultra-gentle formula allows for daily use. It moisturizes, smoothes the hair, prevents frizz, and refreshes the scalp with every wash. Unlike sulfate-based shampoos that can strip natural oils and irritate the skin, this shampoo does not cause dryness or irritation. It contains no mineral oil or petrolatum, so there is no need to worry about buildup.

One of the features that I value most about Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo is that it is 100% vegan and certified cruelty-free. It is also free of parabens, sulfates, and formaldehyde, making it a clean product you can feel good about using on your hair.

Even the tube is made from recycled materials, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainability.

The Acure Ultra Hydrating shampoo contains argan oil and pumpkin extracts, providing the rich omega fatty acids necessary to moisturize and nourish hair. It also has a blend of other organic botanical extracts such as blackberry, chamomile flowers, calendula, and rooibos that gently cleanse the hair without stripping. This shampoo is ideal for all hair types, particularly those with damaged or dry locks needing TLC.

The cherry almond scent is pleasant and subtle, making it an excellent option for both men and women.

My only issue with this shampoo is that I wish they offered larger sizes. This 8 fl. oz tube may not last long if you have very long hair.

Directions for use:

• Massage the shampoo into the scalp and hair, ensuring the ends are well-coated.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Follow up with your preferred conditioner.

3. DermOrganic Daily Conditioning Shampoo With Argan

The Dermorganic shampoo has a pH range of 4.5 – 5.5 and is formulated with facial cleansers to be gentle and non-stripping on hair.

What sets this shampoo apart is the addition of 100% pure Moroccan argan oil, protein-packed keratin, omega-6 fatty acids, and panthenol, which help to strengthen and support the hair with every wash. The shampoo also contains natural lipids, aloe vera, rice amino acids, and vitamin B5 (Biotin) to regenerate the hair.

DermOrganic Daily Conditioning Shampoo With Argan

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The formula is clean, without harsh chemical additives like paraben, phthalate, artificial preservatives, dyes, and colors, making it safe for everyone. After a few weeks of use, people reported that their hair texture felt much better and that the product significantly reduced frizz, leaving their hair feeling soft and easier to style.

While the shampoo’s fragrance might not appeal to everyone, the remarkable benefits of the product outweigh this minor issue. The shampoo comes in a big brown and green bottle with a pump dispenser. The product has a thick consistency, making it easy to apply, and it lathers well despite the lack of SLS.

Overall, this is an excellent option for those looking for a mild, all-natural formula, especially those with sensitive scalps.

To use it:

• Massage into wet hair.
• Let it sit for a few minutes.
• Rinse out.
• Follow up with the hydrating conditioner.

The shampoo can be used daily.

4. Nexxus Therappe Moisturizing Shampoo

Nexxus Therappe is an excellent shampoo for dry, brittle hair, and for people who struggle with hair breakage due to its patented ProteinFusion formula.

It delivers 24-hour moisture retention with deep moisturization and flexibility, leaving the hair supple and revitalized.

Nexxus Therappe Moisturizing Shampoo

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Regular shampoo that is not pH regulated can aggrevate dry and brittle hair, making it worse. Alkaline shampoos, which typically have a higher pH level than the natural pH of the hair and scalp (4.5 – 5.5), can cause pH imbalance, leading to dryness, frizz, and an irritated scalp.

The Nexxus Therappe Moisturizing Shampoo is at the lower end of the pH scale.

It maintains the natural pH balance of the hair and scalp.

It gently cleanses without stripping the natural oils and maintains the negative electrical net charge on the surface of the hair. Negative electrical charge is beneficial for hair health as it helps to repel dirt and dust particles, prevent tangling, and reduce frizz. The use of high pH or alkaline shampoos, on the other hand, can reduce the negative electrical charge on the hair.

In summary, Nexxus Therappe is a worthy option for those with dry and brittle hair. Its low pH formula helps restore the natural hair and scalp pH levels.

Here’s how the Nexxus shampoo works:

The star ingredients in Nexxus Therappe Moisturizing Shampoo are Elastin protein and Green Caviar extracts, which play an important role in strengthening and sealing the outermost layer of the hair. This layer is composed of overlapping scales that protect the hair fibers.

Elastin protein is a natural protein found in the skin and connective tissues of the body. It is known for its ability to provide elasticity and strength to tissues. When used in hair products, elastin protein can help to strengthen and nourish the hair shaft, leading to healthier, more vibrant hair. ^[2]

Green caviar, or sea grape, is a seaweed rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. When used in hair products, green caviar can help improve hair health.

Along with elastin and green caviar, the Nexxus Therappe combines different types of proteins to create ProteinFusion. ProteinFusion mimics the hair’s natural composition, and it helps repair and rebuild each hair fiber with essential nutrients and moisture.

It restores the perpetual balance of moisture and protein that the hair needs to stay strong and healthy.

When I tried this shampoo, I immediately noticed its thick formula and how deeply moisturizing it was compared to the Aphogee Keratin Reconstructor shampoo, a popular treatment in the hair repair category. However, the Aphogee shampoo felt heavier on my hair. The Nexxus Therappe keratins seemed to absorb faster without causing any risk of protein overload.

The only disappointment is that despite all its good stuff, I noticed Sodium Laureth Sulfate in its ingredients list. Therefore, I wouldn’t recommend using it daily, especially if you have color-treated hair.

Other than that, if you use it twice a week, you’ll see a big improvement in how your hair feels.

5. 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.

dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

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Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is an acidic agent commonly used in cosmetic products to lower pH formulations. This is because apple cider vinegar is a natural source of acetic acid, with a pH of around 2.5-3.5. When added to cosmetic formulations, apple cider vinegar can help to lower the pH, making the product slightly acidic.

The DpHue ACV rinse does two things well.

It exfoliates the scalp to unclog hair follicles and seals the hair’s cuticles.

Added benefits include its color-lock formula that enhances the vibrancy of colored hair and its fresh lavender scent that is so earthy, organic, and uplifting.

The price, though, is ridiculous for such a small bottle!

6. Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo

The Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk shampoo has gained a lot of attention for its unique formula that promises to rejuvenate and hydrate the hair while maintaining a healthy pH balance.

This shampoo can maintain the natural acidity of the hair and scalp.

Herbal Essences Bio:renew Coconut Milk Shampoo

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It contains ingredients such as aloe vera (pH 4.5 – 5.5 ), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (pH 5), and Citric Acid (pH 3), resulting in a pH range that is close to the natural pH of hair.

The shampoo’s primary nourishing and moisturizing agent is coconut milk. Although it contains sulfates, often associated with high-pH shampoos, in the case of the Herbal Essences Bio:renew, they are used in a lower concentration to create a mild formula.

Other notable qualities of this shampoo include the following:

• Botanical ingredients endorsed by the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens (UK).
• 0% parabens and colorants.
• A tropical coconut scent that lingers for hours after washing the hair.

The shampoo is available on its own or as part of a 3-piece set that includes a lush conditioner and hair mask.

7. Sojourn Moisture Shampoo

The Sojourn moisture shampoo is formulated to match the hair’s natural pH level.

It combines an exclusive blend of keratin cashmere and cystine amino acids to strengthen the hair’s cuticle layer. Its low pH formulation helps close the hair’s cuticle cells and restructure the chemical bonds for maximum hair strength and elasticity.

Sojourn Moisture Shampoo

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Given its high price, I would only recommend it if your hair is damaged and needs hydration. The Nexxus Therappe shampoo is an alternative option that offers similar benefits.

8. BC BONACURE pH 4.5 Color Freeze Micellar Silver Shampoo

The BC Bonacure is a low pH shampoo for gray and lightened hair.

It contains blue-violet dye that deposits onto the hair to cool white and gray tones prone to brassiness. It also freezes color pigments in the hair to prevent fading.

BC BONACURE pH 4.5 Color Freeze Micellar Silver Shampoo

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The shampoo features micellar water, which gently removes impurities from the hair. The micelles attract and trap dirt, oil, and other impurities, removing them from the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Because the surfactant molecules in micellar water are specifically designed to be acidic, they can maintain the natural pH level of the hair and the skin.

This shampoo, although it’s a big bottle, is not cheap. But this is the best option if you’re looking for a ph-balancing shampoo for white or gray hair.

9. Joico Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo

The Joico Blonde Life Brightening shampoo is a popular product among blondes who want to keep their hair looking bright and vibrant. It won the Self.com 2017 Approved beauty awards for the “best-colored hair duo” and the 2018 “Best New Professional Haircare Product” at the Australian Hair Fashion Awards.

Joico Blonde Life Brightening Shampoo

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The shampoo contains various nourishing ingredients, including arginine, monoi, and tamanu. These ingredients work together to help strengthen and hydrate the hair, leaving it feeling soft and healthy. Additionally, the shampoo contains a gentle lightening complex that helps to enhance the radiance of blonde hair.

The Joico Blonde Life Brightening shampoo is not 100% sulfate-free. We found Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, a synthetic surfactant, in the ingredients list. But having said that, it’s all about the formulation. A low pH shampoo doesn’t need to exclude sulfates.

Besides illuminating your blonde tresses, it also eliminates brassy tones and dullness, leaving the hair feeling fresh and clean.

To use it, just lather it into wet hair, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse thoroughly.

10. 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.

Joico Moisture Recovery Shampoo

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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.

Low pH Shampoo – Breaking Down the Exact Science

A low pH shampoo is a hair and scalp cleansing product formulated to be acidic, meaning it has a lower potential of hydrogen (pH) than a regular drugstore shampoo.

Shampoos with lower pH, known as acidic shampoos, typically have a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5.

To understand why acidic shampoo benefits the hair and scalp, you must understand the effects of alkaline and acidic substances on them. An alkaline substance can cause the hair cuticles to open, leading to frizz and dehydration. An acidic substance contracts the hair cuticles, sealing them to protect the hair fiber’s internal structures and ability to retain moisture.

Moreover, if a substance is too alkaline for the scalp, it can disrupt its natural homeostasis, which is the natural equilibrium and resistance to pathogens.

Acidity is the level of hydrogen ions in a substance, typically measured using the pH scale. In the context of low pH shampoos, acidity is essential because the hair and scalp have a slightly acidic pH that helps maintain their natural moisture balance and protect against damage.

Shampoos formulated at low pH are closer to the natural pH of the hair and scalp. The acidity helps maintain the natural equilibrium of the hair and scalp, which is essential for preserving the integrity of the hair cuticle layer, preventing breakage and damage, and promoting a healthy scalp.

In essence, pH-balanced hair products, especially low pH shampoos, are less damaging to the hair. They work in harmony with the natural equilibrium of the follicular ecosystem, promoting a healthier scalp and stronger hair while eliminating frizz, damage, and other factors that can potentially contribute to hair loss in the long term.

Why Use a Low Ph Shampoo?

Human hair and scalp have a naturally low pH. Hair products formulated within this range help maintain the natural equilibrium of the follicular ecosystem. If a product’s pH value is too high (above 7), it can cause changes to the hair texture and disrupt the scalp’s microbiome.

Here are the benefits of using a low pH shampoo:

• It Reduces Frizz:
  Frizzy hair is a common problem caused by regular shampoos with alkaline bases. These shampoos create electrical charges in the hair and contain alkaline chemicals that lift the cuticles, making them uneven and unable to retain moisture. Low pH shampoos can help prevent frizz caused by alkaline shampoos but may not be effective for all types of frizz.
• It Maintains Scalp Heath:
  Using a low pH shampoo can aid in preserving the natural acidity of the scalp, which in turn protects against harmful bacteria and fungal infections. Additionally, the acidic environment of the scalp helps prevent excessive oil production, which is a common cause of scalp conditions such as dandruff. Low pH shampoo can also help to alleviate an itchy scalp as it reduces irritation and inflammation.
• It Enhances Hair Texture and Appearance:
  Using a low pH shampoo can enhance the texture and appearance of hair by smoothing down the cuticles to keep them flat. This results in shinier and smoother-looking hair that becomes less prone to tangles, split ends, and frizz.
• It Prevents Hair Color from Fading:
  Low pH shampoos are gentle and can help to maintain the vibrancy of color-treated hair. They also prevent color fade by keeping the cuticles flat, which prevents color molecules from leaching out. However, it’s worth noting that the effectiveness of low pH shampoos in preventing color fade may vary depending on the type of color treatment and the individual’s hair type. Factors such as exposure to sunlight and washing frequency can also contribute to color fade.
• Its a Better Option for People with Dry Skin Conditions:
  Low pH shampoos are formulated with milder ingredients and are less likely to irritate, making them a good choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies.^[1] The same applies to skincare products. Any product formulated to be low pH should maintain the natural acidity layer of the skin that prevents the growth of bacteria that can exacerbate dry skin conditions.

Differences between Low pH Shampoo and Regular Shampoo

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.

Where to Find pH Value of Hair Products?

You can find pH value or range of hair products from manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the product. Most hair products do not display their pH value on their labels because not all regulatory bodies mandate the display of pH on product labels unless it’s considered crucial for safety or functionality. Plus, the general consumer might not understand the significance of pH or how it relates to product efficacy.

To help you, we’ve gathered pH values of hair products from their MSDS, done some testing on our own with pH meters, and contacted some brands to provide us the information.

You can find the list here: pH values and ranges of hair products.

Can You Use a Low pH Shampoo Every Day?

Yes, you can use a low pH shampoo every day if needed. However, it’s important to note that shampooing frequency should be based on an individual’s hair and scalp needs. Daily shampooing may be necessary for people with oily hair to keep the scalp clean and prevent excess oil buildup. On the other hand, people with dry or curly hair may benefit from less frequent shampooing to avoid stripping the hair of its natural oils.

It’s also worth noting that while low pH shampoos can be gentle, over-shampooing, even with a low pH product, can still dry out the hair and scalp.

Therefore, consider finding a balance that works for your hair and scalp type. Always follow up with a conditioner to help maintain the hair’s natural moisture balance.

Have You Tried a Low pH Shampoo Yet?

Incorporating a low pH shampoo into your hair care routine can benefit your hair and scalp by maintaining the natural acidic environment of the follicular ecosystem, reducing damage and breakage, and promoting a healthy scalp.

Low pH shampoos are particularly beneficial for those with sensitive scalps or those who experience dryness or itchiness. They can also be useful for individuals with color-treated or chemically processed hair as the acidity helps to seal the hair cuticles and lock in the color, resulting in longer-lasting vibrancy.

About the Author

Shehnaz Shirazi

Shehnaz Shirazi has been writing in the beauty and cosmetics industry for over 8 years, sharing her expansive hair care and beauty knowledge. Shehnaz researches and tests new hair care trends and publishes her insights here.