Kentucky Cosmetology State Practice Exam

pH stands for "Potential of Hydrogen," which relates to the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. It is a scale that measures how acidic or basic a substance is, with lower values indicating higher acidity and higher values indicating greater alkalinity. In cosmetology, understanding pH is crucial because it affects the formulation and effectiveness of hair and skin products. For example, a product with a pH that matches the natural pH of hair and scalp (typically around 4.5 to 5.5) is less likely to cause damage and will maintain the health of the hair cuticle. This knowledge helps cosmetologists choose and apply products appropriately to achieve the desired results while ensuring the health and integrity of their clients’ hair and skin.