This is the isoelectric point at which the keratin protein is completely discharged and neutral (not negatively or positively charged).
Alkaline products cause the scales of the cuticle to open...
Alkaline products cause the scales of the cuticle to open...
....exposing the inside of the hair shaft (cortex). Ordinary water is already alkaline enough to open the cuticle of the hair, an alkaline shampoo opens it even more.