California Cosmetology Written ExamHaircoloringMedium
During a permanent color service, hydrogen peroxide is mixed with the color formula. What is the primary function of hydrogen peroxide in this process?
- AIt acts as a thickening agent to prevent the formula from dripping
- BIt serves as the oxidizing agent that develops color molecules and diffuses natural melanin
- CIt acts as an alkalizing agent to raise the hair's pH
- DIt conditions the hair by closing the cuticle after processing
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. It serves as the oxidizing agent that develops color molecules and diffuses natural melanin
Hydrogen peroxide is the oxidizing agent in haircolor; it reacts with the dye precursors to form color molecules within the cortex and simultaneously diffuses (lightens) the natural melanin, allowing both deposit and lift to occur.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Thickening agents are separate from peroxide's chemical function
- C. Ammonia, not peroxide, is the alkalizing agent
- D. Peroxide does not close the cuticle; it is part of processing, not a conditioning step
Hydrogen Peroxide (Developer)
The oxidizing agent in haircolor that develops color molecules and lightens natural melanin.
- Available in volumes (10, 20, 30, 40) indicating strength
- Higher volumes lift more but cause more damage
- Reacts with dye precursors and diffuses melanin simultaneously
Memory trick: Peroxide is the 'power switch' that turns on color and turns down melanin