NIC Cosmetology Written (Theory) ExamHair Care and ServicesHard
A client with 75% gray hair desires a permanent hair color application that will provide full, opaque coverage and a vibrant, rich tone. The cosmetologist notes that the gray hair is resistant. What specialized technique should be performed BEFORE the full color application to ensure optimal gray coverage?
- AA protein treatment to strengthen the hair.
- BPre-softening the gray hair.
- CApplying a lighter shade to the gray areas first.
- DA clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Pre-softening the gray hair.
Pre-softening, also known as pre-lightening or pre-pigmentation in some contexts, is a technique used to open the cuticle of resistant (often gray) hair and allow for better penetration of the hair color, ensuring more even and opaque coverage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A protein treatment strengthens hair but does not directly improve the penetration of color into resistant gray hair.
- C. Applying a lighter shade to gray areas first would not ensure optimal coverage; it could lead to an uneven or patchy result, especially if the gray is resistant.
- D. A clarifying shampoo removes buildup, which is generally good practice, but it doesn't specifically address the resistance of gray hair to color penetration.
Pre-softening (Gray Hair)
A specialized technique used to treat resistant gray hair by opening the cuticle layer, allowing for better color penetration and more even, opaque coverage.
- Applied to resistant gray areas before the main color application.
- Typically involves applying a small amount of oxidative tint or developer only.
- Increases porosity, making the hair more receptive to color.
- Ensures full and vibrant gray coverage.
Memory trick: Pre-soften the tough gray, so the color can play!