NIC Cosmetology Written (Theory) ExamHair Care and ServicesMedium
A client has previously colored hair (Level 6 red-orange) and desires to achieve a Level 8 neutral blonde. Which color correction technique should the cosmetologist primarily utilize to neutralize the unwanted red-orange tones before applying the target shade?
- AUsing a red-violet direct dye to deepen the tone.
- BPre-lightening to a Level 10, then toning with violet.
- CApplying a golden blonde permanent color.
- DApplying a blue-green corrective toner.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Applying a blue-green corrective toner.
To neutralize unwanted red-orange tones, the cosmetologist should use a blue-green corrective toner. According to the color wheel, blue neutralizes orange, and green neutralizes red, making a blue-green combination effective against red-orange.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Using a red-violet direct dye would intensify the red tones, making the problem worse.
- B. Pre-lightening to Level 10 is too aggressive for neutralizing red-orange and would expose yellow tones, requiring additional toning.
- C. Applying a golden blonde color would add yellow/gold tones, which would not neutralize the red-orange and might make the hair appear brassier.
Color Correction: Neutralization
The process of canceling out unwanted warm or cool tones in the hair using complementary colors from the color wheel.
- Opposite colors on the color wheel neutralize each other.
- Red is neutralized by green.
- Orange is neutralized by blue.
- Yellow is neutralized by violet.
- Used to create a neutral base before applying a target shade.
Memory trick: Opposites Attract to Neutralize the Attack!