What is the pH range for most alkaline permanent waves?

The pH range for most alkaline permanent waves is typically between 9.0 and 9.6. This pH level indicates that the solution is alkaline, which is essential for the chemical process involved in perming hair. Alkaline solutions have the capacity to soften and swell the hair shaft, allowing the cuticle (the outer protective layer of the hair) to lift and enabling the chemical to penetrate more effectively. Consequently, this makes it possible to break the disulfide bonds within the hair that are crucial for forming new curls or waves.

When the pH is in this range, it optimizes the effectiveness of the perming solution. Solutions that fall below or above this range may not perform as well because they either lack sufficient alkalinity to alter the hair structure effectively or may potentially damage the hair due to excessively high alkalinity.

It's important to understand this process for effective hair styling and treatment. The other options fall outside the typical pH range necessary for achieving the desired results with alkaline permanent waves.