Colorado Cosmetology Written Practice Exam

Which of the following colors will result in a shortened processing time when using a lightener on gray hair?

1. Blue

2. Orange

3. Purple

4. Red

The correct answer is: Blue

The correct choice is blue. When lightening gray hair, blue is particularly effective because lighteners with a blue base help counteract unwanted warmth and brassy tones that can result from the lightening process. This color can neutralize yellow and orange undertones, allowing for a more balanced and cooler result. A shorter processing time occurs because the blue pigment works efficiently with the lightener to achieve the desired lift with less time on the hair, particularly when dealing with gray strands that often have more resistance to color. The other colors may not provide the same level of neutralization against unwanted tones. Orange could enhance warmth instead of neutralizing it, while purple primarily counteracts yellow tones and may not be as effective for gray hair requiring a larger lift. Red would amplify warmth rather than lessen it. Therefore, blue is the most advantageous choice for achieving a quicker and better outcome when lightening gray hair.