Hair Coloring & Chemical Treatments Flashcards

What is the purpose of hair coloring?

Answer: To change the natural hair color

The fundamental purpose of hair coloring is to alter the pigment of the hair, whether to cover gray, lighten, darken, or add new tones and shades. It's a cosmetic process designed to achieve a desired aesthetic change in hair color. This allows individuals to express their style or refresh their look.

Which of the following is a permanent hair coloring method?

Answer: Permanent color

Permanent hair color is formulated to deeply penetrate the hair shaft and chemically alter the hair's natural pigment. Unlike temporary or demi-permanent colors, it does not wash out and grows out with the hair, providing a lasting color change. This method is used for significant color changes, complete gray coverage, and long-term results.

What is the role of a developer in hair coloring?

Answer: To activate and open the cuticle

A developer, typically hydrogen peroxide, is crucial in hair coloring as it activates the color molecules. It works by gently opening the hair's outer layer, the cuticle, allowing the color pigments to penetrate into the cortex where they can deposit or lighten the hair's natural melanin. This process is essential for the chemical reaction that results in permanent or demi-permanent color changes.

Why is patch testing important before hair coloring?

Answer: To test for allergies

Patch testing, also known as a skin allergy test, is a vital safety measure performed 24-48 hours before a hair coloring service. It involves applying a small amount of the product to a discreet area of the skin to check for any adverse allergic reactions. This helps prevent severe allergic responses, such as contact dermatitis, which can be painful and dangerous for the client.

What is the difference between demi-permanent and permanent hair color?

Answer: Demi-permanent does not lift natural color

The key difference lies in their chemical composition and action. Permanent hair color uses a higher volume developer to open the cuticle and penetrate the cortex, allowing it to both lift (lighten) natural pigment and deposit new color. Demi-permanent color, however, uses a lower volume developer, only depositing color onto the hair shaft without lifting the natural underlying pigment, resulting in a less permanent, fade-out color.

What is the effect of bleaching on hair?

Answer: It adds color intensity

Bleaching is a chemical process that uses an alkaline agent and an oxidizer (like hydrogen peroxide) to penetrate the hair shaft. Its primary effect is to break down the melanin (natural pigment) inside the hair, effectively removing its color. This process lightens the hair, making it appear blonde or white, and prepares it for depositing new, lighter shades.

Why is hair pH important in chemical treatments?

Answer: To ensure proper product absorption

Hair pH (potential hydrogen) is crucial because it affects the hair's cuticle layer. Hair is naturally acidic, and most chemical treatments (like coloring, perming, or relaxing) are alkaline, which causes the cuticle to swell and open. Maintaining the correct pH balance during and after treatments ensures the cuticle opens sufficiently for product penetration and then closes properly to seal in the treatment and prevent damage.

What is a common side effect of over-processing hair with chemicals?

Answer: Dryness, breakage, and damage

Over-processing hair with chemicals, such as excessive bleaching, perming, or relaxing, severely compromises the hair's structural integrity. It can strip the hair of its natural oils, break down protein bonds, and leave the cuticle permanently open. This leads to extreme dryness, increased porosity, frizz, and ultimately, significant breakage and damage, making the hair weak and unhealthy.

What is a key factor to consider when choosing a hair color?

Answer: Skin tone and style

When choosing a hair color, considering the client's skin tone is paramount to ensure the color complements their complexion and enhances their features. Warm skin tones often suit warmer hair colors, while cool skin tones pair well with cooler shades. Additionally, the client's personal style and lifestyle should be taken into account to ensure the chosen color aligns with their overall aesthetic and maintenance preferences.