Color theory
What are the three primary colors that cannot be created by mixing any other colors together?
Red, Yellow, and Blue
What is the main difference between all-over coloring and zonal coloring?
All-over colors the entire head; Zonal colors specific targeted areas for effect.
What two types of melanin determine the natural color of human hair?
Eumelanin (Black/Brown) and Pheomelanin (Red/Yellow)
How long does temporary hair color last, and how deep does it penetrate the hair shaft?
Lasts 1 shampoo; coats only the surface of the cuticle.
Why MUST oxidative color formulas always be mixed in a non-metallic bowl?
Metal reacts adversely with hydrogen peroxide, causing rapid heat or uneven color.
Which three colors are secondary colors, created by mixing equal parts of two primary colors?
Orange, Green, and Violet
Name the design principle that uses maximum distinction between lightness/darkness or warm/cool tones.
Contrast
What is contributing pigment?
The underlying warm tone exposed when hair is lightened/decolorized.
What is contributing pigment?
The underlying warm tone exposed when hair is lightened/decolorized.
What is the purpose of a patch test (predisposition test) and how long in advance must it be given?
To check for allergic reactions or sensitivity; given 24 to 48 hours prior to service.
What term describes colors located directly opposite each other on the color wheel?
Complementary Colors
Which color design placement pattern is best for creating the visual effect of movement and texture?
Diagonal Placement Patterns
Define hair porosity and state how highly porous hair reacts to hair color.
Porosity is the hair's ability to absorb moisture/chemicals; porous hair absorbs color faster but fades quicker
What key component is noticeably ABSENT in non-oxidative hair colors?
Developer / Hydrogen Peroxide
What is the purpose of cross-checking during a color application?
To ensure thorough, even product saturation and coverage across all sections.
In the Level System, what does a Level 1 represent versus a Level 10?
Level 1 is Darkest (Black), Level 10 is Lightest (Lightest Blonde)
What technique uses dimensional coloring with lighter and darker strands throughout the hair?
Highlights and Lowlights
Why must a hair stylist analyze density, texture, and previous chemical history before coloring?
To accurately determine product quantity, processing time, and potential damage or uneven absorption.
What plant-derived dye is a common example of vegetable hair color that stains the cuticle?
Henna
Describe the application technique difference between a virgin color and a retouch service.
Virgin is applied mid-strand to ends first then roots; Retouch is applied ONLY to new growth/roots.
Define tone and list the three primary categories tone is divided into.
Tone is the warmth or coolness of a color; categorized as Warm, Cool, or Neutral
List the four fundamental design principles used to plan hair color placement.
Repetition, Alternation, Progression, and Contrast
What color wheel rule should be applied when a client's exposed contributing pigment is too brassy/orange?
Apply a complementary Blue-based tone to neutralize the orange.
Give two primary reasons a stylist would choose a non-oxidative color service.
To refresh faded ends, enhance tone, blend gray, or add shine without lifting natural pigment.
What test is performed during or prior to processing to determine exact timing and color development results?
A Strand Test