What can result from hair products with a pH higher than recommended?

Using hair products with a pH higher than recommended can lead to potential damage to hair. The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, with hair typically having a natural pH around 4.5 to 5.5. When hair products exceed this pH level, they can disrupt the hair's natural balance.

High pH products can cause the cuticle (the outer protective layer of the hair) to lift or become damaged, leading to increased porosity. This can make hair more susceptible to moisture loss, breakage, and overall weakened structure. It may also result in frizziness and dullness, as the hair loses its smoothness and shine.

While some high-pH products might seem appealing, such as those designed for clarifying or deep cleansing, they should be used with caution and followed by pH-balancing treatments to mitigate damage.