The defining feature of all Sebamed products is the pH value of 5.5. Healthy skin and scalp are naturally covered by a slightly acidic film called the hydrolipid barrier (or acid mantle). Traditional soaps and shampoos often have an alkaline pH (greater than 7), which strips this barrier, leaving the scalp dry, irritated, and vulnerable to fungal infections or dandruff. Sebamed duplicates the natural pH of healthy skin to support the scalp's natural barrier function, protecting the hair keratin and keeping the scalp hydrated.