After placing a relaxer, which product is used to neutralize remaining hydroxide ions and lower the hair pH?

• A. Normalizing Lotion
• B. Neutralizer
• C. Shampoo
• D. Conditioner

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to stop any remaining chemical action from the relaxer and bring the hair back to a normal pH. After the relaxer has been applied, the hair is highly alkaline, which keeps the bonds open. Normalizing lotion is designed to neutralize the leftover hydroxide ions and lower the hair’s pH back toward the neutral range, while also helping to remove any residual chemicals and re-balance moisture. This step protects the hair from over-processing and helps the cuticle lay flat again, contributing to improved manageability and shine. A shampoo cleans but doesn’t neutralize alkaline residues, a conditioner focuses on conditioning without stopping chemical action or adjusting pH, and a dedicated neutralizer in other systems often refers to stopping processing and rebuilding bonds, whereas the normalizing lotion used here specifically handles neutralizing and pH restoration as the finish of the relaxing service.