Milady Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which product is used to bring the pH of hair back to normal after using strong chemical treatments?

1. Conditioner

2. Normalizing Solution

3. Moisturizer

4. Leave-in Treatment

The correct answer is: Normalizing Solution

The use of a normalizing solution is critical in hair care, particularly following strong chemical treatments such as relaxers or perms. These treatments often raise the hair's pH, making it more alkaline, which can lead to hair becoming brittle and damaged if not properly addressed. A normalizing solution works by restoring the hair's pH balance back to a more acidic level, typically around 4.5 to 5.5, which is essential for maintaining healthy hair. By bringing the pH back to normal, the normalizing solution helps to close the cuticle layer of the hair, reducing porosity and increasing moisture retention. This step is vital for ensuring that the hair remains strong and resilient after undergoing intense chemical processes. Other products, such as conditioners or moisturizers, may aid in hydration and repair but do not specifically target the pH balance in the same way that a normalizing solution does.