Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamHair ServicesMedium
When performing a hair coloring service, the cosmetologist needs to create a formula that lifts the natural hair color two levels and deposits a new tone. Which component of the hair color mixture is responsible for the lifting action?
- AThe alkalizing ingredient (e.g., ammonia)
- BThe artificial pigment molecules
- CThe conditioning agents
- DThe direct dyes
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The alkalizing ingredient (e.g., ammonia)
The alkalizing ingredient, typically ammonia, opens the cuticle layer of the hair, allowing the color molecules to penetrate and facilitating the lightening action by breaking down the natural melanin.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Artificial pigment molecules deposit color but do not lift natural pigment.
- C. Conditioning agents protect the hair but do not contribute to lifting.
- D. Direct dyes are found in temporary/semi-permanent colors and do not lift.
Alkalizing Agent (Hair Color)
An ingredient in permanent hair color, usually ammonia, that raises the pH of the hair, swelling the cuticle and allowing the color to penetrate and lift the natural pigment.
- Opens the cuticle
- Allows penetration of color molecules
- Facilitates the lightening (lifting) process
- Commonly ammonia or an ammonia substitute
Memory trick: Alkalizing agents lift the way, letting color play.