What does pH stand for in cosmetology?

pH stands for "Potential Hydrogen" and is a critical concept in cosmetology, particularly when discussing skin and hair care products. It is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is, with a scale ranging from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral. Understanding pH is essential for cosmetologists because the pH of products can significantly affect their efficacy and how they interact with the skin or hair.

For example, hair has a natural pH of around 4.5 to 5.5. Using products that are too alkaline can lead to cuticle damage and moisture loss, resulting in dry and brittle hair. Conversely, acidic products can help to seal the cuticle, providing shine and reducing frizz. Knowledge of pH helps professionals select the right products that will maintain or restore the hair and skin’s natural balance, ensuring healthy results for clients.

While other options touch on relevant topics in the industry, they do not accurately define or relate to the scientific concept of pH in the context of cosmetology.