Hydroxide (OH-) is an anion composed of one oxygen and one hydrogen atom, carrying a negative electrical charge. While hydroxide ions themselves are not directly used in skincare or spa treatments, they play a crucial role in the formulation and function of various skincare products and treatments that beauty professionals and estheticians work with.
In the industry of skincare and beauty, hydroxide ions are commonly found in alkaline skincare solutions, such as soap, facial cleansers, and exfoliating agents, where they work as counterions to break down the weakly acidic sebum and dirt on the skin’s surface.
Here is a list of the use of hydroxide in skincare and beauty:
- pH regulation: Hydroxide ions influence the pH level of skincare products, which is a critical factor in maintaining the skin’s natural acid mantle. Beauty professionals and estheticians need to be aware of the pH levels in the products they use and recommend, as unbalanced pH can lead to skin irritation and compromised skin barrier function.
- Chemical peels: Alkaline solutions containing hydroxide ions, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, can be used in chemical peels to remove the outer layers of dead skin cells, promoting skin rejuvenation and improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
- Hair care: Hydroxide compounds, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, are also found in hair care products, such as relaxers or texturizers, which are used to alter the hair’s natural texture by breaking down the protein structure.
Moreover, hydroxide anions can be found in hair care products, such as hair relaxers, where sodium hydroxide, also known as lye, is used to alter the hair’s structure and achieve a straightened appearance. Professionals in the beauty industry need to handle these chemicals with care, given the potential for scalp burns and hair damage if misused or overprocessed.
Although hydroxide is not a type of chemical or ingredient typically listed on skincare or beauty product labels, it can have a significant impact on the options available for treatments and products in the beauty industry.