What is the effect of using a high pH shampoo on hair?

Using a high pH shampoo can lead to the lifting of the hair cuticle, which is the outer protective layer of each hair strand. When the cuticle is lifted, it exposes the inner layers of the hair, making it more susceptible to moisture loss. This exposure can result in dryness and a rough texture, as the cuticle is no longer lying flat against the hair shaft. The elevated pH in the shampoo alters the environment of the hair's surface, contributing to these changes. Therefore, the effect of using a high pH shampoo can indeed lead to dryness due to the disruption of the cuticle's protective function.