Hi Kia -
I don't know if you ever found a definition of pH. What is pH?
<font color="red">pH stands for "Potential of Hydrogen," and is the abbreviated term used to measure the alkalinity or acidity of a solution.</font color> A pH of 7 is neutral. Higher than 7 means the solution is alkaline and lower than 7 denotes acidity. So Sassygirl was correct - most relaxers do have a pH of 12 or higher /images/graemlins/shocked.gif (very alkaline), water has a pH of 7 (neutral), and white vinegar has a pH of 3.0 (highly acidic). The books I have read emphasize rinsing relaxers out thoroughly with water to help bring the pH of the hair and scalp back down (prior to using a neutralizer).
For Those Who Take Supplements:
When the body's acid/alkaline balance is off, nutrients from food may not be absorbed properly. This is especially true of minerals, which are important for many body functions including enzyme production and cellular metabolism. <font color="red">Even if you are swallowing a whole handful of supplements, your body can't make optimal use of them if the pH balance is not right </font color> .
Most Americans do not eat the USDA recommended 5 (minimum) to 9 (optimal) servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Those 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables will do more than balance your pH. Research has shown that the phytonutrients and antioxidants found in brightly colored fruits and vegetables will protect you against cancer and a host of other degenerative diseases. It will also keep your skin younger looking and your vitality high. Best of all, fruits and vegetables tend to be lower in calories than grains and meats which is a real bonus for those trying to lose weight or keep from gaining.
Phew! That's it.
Hope that answers the question. /images/graemlins/tongue.gif
Nyambura
ps - some products do cite the pH level: Aubrey, Elasta QP, and I think Elucence.