Why is washing your hair with soap not advised?

While soap can technically cleanse your hair, it's generally not recommended due to several reasons:

High Alkalinity: Most soaps have a high pH level, making them alkaline. This alkalinity can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, frizzy, and prone to breakage. The natural pH of your hair and scalp is slightly acidic, and using a high pH soap can disrupt this delicate balance.

Harsh Cleansing: Soaps are designed to remove dirt and grime effectively. However, their strong cleansing agents can be too harsh for your hair and scalp. This can lead to excessive dryness, irritation, and increased scalp sensitivity.

Build-up: Soap can leave behind a residue on your hair, resulting in a build-up that weighs it down and makes it feel dull and lifeless. Soaps lack the conditioning agents that shampoos have to counteract these effects.

Poor Lathering: Soaps don't lather well in hard water, which is commonly found in many areas. The lack of lather makes it difficult to distribute soap evenly throughout your hair, leading to uneven cleansing.

Dullness: Soaps can strip away the natural shine of your hair, leaving it looking lackluster and dull. The harsh cleansing action of soap removes essential oils that contribute to hair's luster.

Scalp Irritation: The high pH of soaps can cause irritation and dryness to the scalp. This can lead to itching, flaking, and discomfort. Those with sensitive scalps or skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis should avoid using soaps on their hair.

Tangling: Soap can contribute to tangling, making it challenging to comb or brush your hair.

For these reasons, it's generally recommended to use shampoos specifically formulated for hair care. Shampoos are designed with a pH level that's closer to the natural acidity of your hair and scalp, and they contain conditioning agents to help maintain hair health and manageability.