Alaska Hairdresser and Barber Certification Practice Exam 2026 - Free Hairdresser and Barber Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

The acronym "pH" stands for Potential of Hydrogen. In the context of hair care products, pH is a crucial measurement that indicates how acidic or alkaline a product is on a scale typically ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, with values below 7 being acidic and values above 7 being alkaline.

Understanding pH is vital for hairdressers and barbers because the pH of hair care products can significantly affect the health and appearance of hair. For instance, hair is naturally slightly acidic, with a typical pH range of around 4.5 to 5.5. If hair care products are too alkaline, they can raise the cuticles of the hair strands, making the hair more prone to damage, frizz, and loss of moisture. On the other hand, products with a suitable pH help to maintain the hair's natural state, promoting shine and manageability.

Recognizing the implications of pH on hair health allows professionals to make informed decisions about the products they use, ensuring they achieve the desired results while preserving the integrity of their clients' hair.