How does the pH level of hair products affect hair?

Prepare for the OHA Natural Hair Care Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your test with confidence!

The choice that discusses products with a pH close to that of hair being beneficial for maintaining the hair cuticle's integrity is accurate because the natural pH level of hair typically ranges from about 4.5 to 5.5. Products formulated to match this pH level help maintain the hair's natural acidity, which is crucial for keeping the cuticle layer smooth and flat. When the cuticle is intact and healthy, it reflects light better, which gives hair its shine and reduces frizz and tangling.

Using products that are too far outside this pH range can lead to damage over time. For example, high pH products can raise the cuticle, leading to porosity and making hair more susceptible to damage and frizz. Conversely, very low pH products might not be conducive to maintaining the hair’s integrity either, as they can cause an overly taut effect on the cuticle. Therefore, using products that align closely with the hair's natural pH fosters health and resilience in hair.

In contrast, higher pH products increasing friction on the hair can create roughness and tangles, while lower pH products inducing frizz do not accurately reflect the relationship between pH and hair health. Lastly, stating that all

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