What is the pH level of acid-balanced waves?

The pH level of acid-balanced waves is generally formulated to be around 6.5 to 7.5, which places it within the mildly acidic to neutral range. This pH balance is specifically designed to ensure that the wave solution effectively conditions the hair while minimizing damage. Acid-balanced waves generally contain glyceryl monothioglycolate, an ingredient that is effective at breaking down the disulfide bonds in the hair without excessively raising the pH, thereby preserving the integrity and softness of the hair cuticle.

Choosing a pH level closer to neutral helps in catering to a broader range of hair types, particularly finer or more delicate hair, as the chemical processes will be gentler compared to more alkaline perming solutions that can exceed 8.0 in pH. Thus, the formulation of acid-balanced waves supports healthy hair conditions while achieving effective results.