What does a higher pH level in alkaline products indicate?

A higher pH level in alkaline products indicates that these products are more basic compared to neutral substances. In the context of hair care, alkaline products play a critical role in treatment processes such as coloring, relaxing, or perming hair. Higher pH levels make it easier for these products to effectively open the hair cuticle, allowing for better penetration of the product into the hair shaft.

This is particularly important when applying chemical treatments, as achieving optimal product absorption is essential for effective results. The opening of the cuticle allows the active ingredients to interact with the cortex of the hair, leading to the desired changes in color, texture, or style. Thus, understanding the relationship between pH levels and hair treatment effectiveness is crucial for any cosmetologist.