Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

What effect does a high pH product generally have on the nails?

1. Strengthens nails

2. Softens nails

3. Repels moisture

4. Harms nail structure

The correct answer is: Harms nail structure

A high pH product typically results in harmful effects on the nail structure. When the pH is elevated, it can lead to the degradation of the natural keratin in the nails. This can weaken the nails and make them more susceptible to damage and breakage. High pH can also disrupt the natural balance of moisture and oils that keep the nails healthy. While strengthening or softening nails can be influenced by other factors, a product with high pH is more often associated with damaging the nail plate, leading to adverse effects such as brittleness or fragility. Therefore, it's essential to use nail products with a balanced pH to maintain the health and integrity of the nails.