What is the common pH level of most acid waves found in salons?

The common pH level of most acid waves found in salons typically ranges from 6.5 to 7.0. Acid waves are perm formulations that operate at a lower pH, which allows for a gentler process on the hair while still effectively breaking down the hair's protein structure to create curls. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with values below 7 indicating acidity. With acid waves fitting in the range of 6.5 to 7.0, they are classified as mild or less alkaline compared to alkaline waves, making them suitable for hair that is more prone to damage.

The value 7.8-8.2, which was noted as the answer, represents a more alkaline level that is typical of alkaline perm solutions, not acid waves. Alkaline perm solutions have higher pH levels, which allow for quicker processing but can potentially lead to more damage. Hence, the characteristics of acid waves and their more acidic nature at lower pH levels make the correct choice clear.