Harm Caused by Alkaline Substances on Hair and Scalp
May 2026
in “
International Journal of Health Management Review
”
substâncias alcalinas alto pH alisamento químico intumescimento das fibras capilares degradação proteica escamas cuticulares hidróxidos metálicos lantionização resistência do cabelo manto ácido do couro cabeludo dermatites queimaduras químicas alopecias cicatriciais chemical hair straightening metal hydroxides hair fiber swelling cuticle scales acid mantle of the scalp scarring alopecia
TLDR Alkaline substances can severely damage hair and scalp health.
This study highlights the detrimental effects of alkaline substances, particularly those with a pH greater than 11, used in hair straightening practices. These substances can cause hair fiber swelling, cuticle damage, and protein degradation, leading to weakened hair strength through lantionization. Additionally, they can disrupt the acid mantle of the scalp, increasing the risk of irritant contact dermatitis, chemical burns, and potentially irreversible scarring alopecia if the dermal papilla is affected. The study emphasizes the importance of trichological interventions to restore follicular health and the need for health education to reduce the psychosocial and public health risks associated with these cosmetic procedures.
