The term ‘pH balance’ is bandied around all the time, but what does it even mean? pH stands for potential of hydrogen and it measures the acid or alkaline levels of a solution.

The pH scale ranges from 0-14 with 0-6.9 being an acid, like lemon juice, 7 being neutral like pure water, and 7.1-14 being alkaline, like toothpaste.

Skin has a pH of around 5.5, making it mildly acidic. When too harsh a pH is used on the skin it has a stripping and drying effect.

Healthy, normal hair ranges from 4.5 to 5.5. Colouring and hair styling makes the hair too alkaline and it looks dull, so use a low pH shampoo and conditioner to help restore the hair and make it shiny.