Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the recommended pH for an AHA used for hyperpigmentation?

1. 3.0

2. 5.0

3. 4.4

4. 6.0

The correct answer is: 4.4

The recommended pH for an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) used for hyperpigmentation is typically around 4.4. At this pH level, AHAs, such as glycolic or lactic acid, maintain their effectiveness in exfoliating the skin and promoting cell turnover, which is crucial for addressing hyperpigmentation issues. When the pH is too low, as with a pH of 3.0, the product may be too harsh and can lead to irritation, which is not ideal for the delicate skin often affected by hyperpigmentation. Conversely, a higher pH, such as 5.0 or 6.0, may reduce the efficacy of AHAs, as they are less effective at penetrating the skin and performing their exfoliating function at these higher pH levels. Therefore, maintaining the pH around 4.4 strikes the right balance, providing both efficacy and safety for treating hyperpigmentation.