Cosmetology · Basic Chemistry of Products

A substance with a pH below 7 is classified as:

Correct answer

Acidic

A Alkaline
B Acidic
C Neutral
D Inert

Why this is the answer

A substance with a pH below 7 is acidic; the lower the number, the more strongly acidic it is. Substances with a pH above 7 are alkaline (basic), and pH 7 is neutral. In cosmetology, acidic products tend to contract and harden the hair cuticle (for example, acid-balanced or normalizing products), while alkaline products swell and open it (for example, many relaxers and some color). Correctly classifying substances as acidic, neutral, or alkaline by pH is essential basic chemistry for the exam.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Acidic pH

Practice more questions

This question is from our Cosmetology Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Basic Chemistry of Products and other topics.

Take the Scientific Concepts practice test →

New to this exam? Our Cosmetology exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Study materials on Amazon

Core textbook

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →

A substance with a pH below 7 is classified as:

Why this is the answer

Practice more questions

Related questions

On the pH scale, a value of 7 is considered:

The natural pH of healthy hair and skin is approximately:

Because the pH scale is logarithmic, a solution of pH 9 is how much more alkaline than a solution of pH 7?

What is the difference between a physical change and a chemical change in a substance?

Study materials on Amazon

Milady Standard Cosmetology

State board exam study guides

Cosmetology practice test books