California Cosmetology Written ExamSkin CareMedium
A makeup artist wants to neutralize a client's sallow, yellow-toned complexion using color theory principles. Which color-based primer or corrector should be used?
- AViolet
- BRed
- CGreen
- DOrange
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Violet
On the color wheel, violet is the complementary color to yellow. Applying a violet-based corrector neutralizes sallow, yellow undertones in the skin, restoring a more balanced complexion.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Red is complementary to green, not used for yellow correction.
- C. Green is complementary to red, used to neutralize redness, not yellow.
- D. Orange is complementary to blue, used to counteract bluish tones like dark circles.
Complementary Color Correction
Using colors opposite each other on the color wheel to neutralize unwanted skin tones in makeup application.
- Green neutralizes red/redness
- Orange neutralizes blue (dark circles)
- Violet neutralizes yellow/sallow tones
Memory trick: 'Violet vanquishes Yellow' opposites cancel on the wheel