Cosmetology · Basic Chemistry of Products

Why is a neutralizing or acid-balanced step often used after a strongly alkaline service like a chemical relaxer?

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Correct answer

To bring the hair's pH back down toward its natural acidic range and stop the chemical action

A To bring the hair's pH back down toward its natural acidic range and stop the chemical action
B To add fragrance
C It serves no purpose
D To make the hair alkaline

Why this is the answer

A strongly alkaline service such as a chemical relaxer raises the hair's pH and swells/opens the cuticle to restructure the hair. Afterward, a neutralizing or acid-balanced step (for example, an acid-balanced shampoo) is used to bring the hair's pH back down toward its natural slightly acidic range (4.5–5.5), stop the chemical action, and help the cuticle close. Skipping this step can leave hair damaged and over-processed. Understanding pH and neutralization in chemical services is emphasized in the exam's chemistry content.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Neutralization

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About this topic: Basic Chemistry of Products

Basic chemistry of products covers matter, elements and compounds, pH and the pH scale, acids and alkalis, oxidation and reduction, and how these ideas explain what shampoos, colours and chemical services actually do to the hair. This is one of 9 Scientific Concepts questions on basic chemistry of products, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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Why is a neutralizing or acid-balanced step often used after a strongly alkaline service like a chemical relaxer?

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Basic Chemistry of Products

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