Final answer:
The acid balance of hair and skin should be maintained at a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5, slightly acidic to protect against bacteria and to maintain the skin's natural barrier. The human body uses buffers to regulate pH levels, ensuring proper function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acid balance of the hair and skin is best maintained within a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. This range is slightly acidic and helps to keep the hair and skin healthy by protecting against bacterial growth and maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where pH levels below 7 are considered acidic and pH levels above 7 are considered alkaline. The human body employs buffers, such as the bicarbonate system, to maintain the pH of blood within the narrow range of 7.35 to 7.45, which is essential for proper bodily function. The acid mantle of the skin, which is part of the skin's natural barrier, operates within the acidic range to prevent infection and retain moisture.