Oklahoma Cosmetology Board Practice Exam

The term "pH" stands for "Power of Hydrogen." This terminology refers to the measurement of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, which is crucial for understanding the acidity or alkalinity of that solution. In the context of hair products, the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Products with a pH lower than 7 are considered acidic, while those above 7 are alkaline.

Understanding the pH of hair care products is vital as it can significantly affect the hair's health and appearance. For example, acidic products can help close the cuticle layer of the hair, making it smoother and less prone to damage, while alkaline products can open the cuticle, allowing for better penetration of certain ingredients but potentially leading to dryness if used excessively. Therefore, knowing that pH stands for "Power of Hydrogen" is crucial for professionals in the cosmetology field to make informed decisions about the products they use on their clients' hair.