Science & STEM

Which Haircolor Types Lighten and Deposit Color?

Moderate2-5mins

This quick quiz helps you identify which haircolor uses an alkalizing agent to lighten and deposit in one application. Check your grasp of levels, tones, developers, and basic oxidative haircolor. When you finish, try our hair color theory test, take another hair color test, or review an overlapping lightener retouch service.

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1What is the process called that both lifts natural pigment and deposits artificial color in one application?
2Which developer volume is typically used to achieve the maximum lift in single-process coloring?
3Which type of haircolor can deposit pigment but does not lighten natural melanin?
4What is the natural pigment in hair that gives it color?
5At what stage on the decolorization chart does hair reach a pale yellow underlying pigment?
6Which technique is used to lighten resistant gray hair before applying color?
7What is the typical pH range of permanent haircolor formulas?
8Which developer volume is recommended for optimum gray hair coverage in permanent color?
9What is the role of ammonia in permanent haircolor formulations?
10Which type of haircolor requires an alkalizing agent to facilitate lifting of the natural pigment?
11A 20 volume developer will typically lift the hair how many levels when used with permanent haircolor?
12Which classification of haircolor is non-oxidative and does not require a developer to deposit color?
13Which form of hair lightener is generally not recommended for direct scalp application?
14What is the minimum recommended time to wait after performing a predisposition (patch) test before applying haircolor?
15Which of these is not a form of lightening product?
16What is the standard mixing ratio for most permanent haircolor formulations?
17What is the typical mixing ratio for high-lift tint used in a single-process application?
18At Level 4 on the scale, which underlying pigment is primarily exposed during lightening?
19Which color on the color wheel is used to neutralize unwanted orange tones in hair?
20Which developer volume is typically used to achieve approximately three levels of lift in permanent haircolor?
21Why is performing a strand test before a full-color application important?
22Which active ingredient in haircolor developer acts as the oxidizing agent?
23What is the primary purpose of a haircolor filler?
24To achieve pastel shades successfully, hair must first be lightened to which level or stage?
25Which toner tone would you choose to neutralize unwanted yellow tones on prelightened hair?
26Which developer volume is best for toning services on prelightened hair?
27Which form of lightener is considered the gentlest option for sensitive or fragile hair?
28Why must a strand test always be performed when using a new haircolor formula?
29When performing a root touch-up application, where should you apply the color first?
30What is the typical maximum processing time recommended for high-lift tint formulations?
31Which component in permanent haircolor serves as the primary intermediate that oxidizes and combines to form the final dye molecule?
32Which term describes the chemical reaction that causes haircolor molecules to polymerize and form larger color compounds inside the cortex?
33What is the maximum safe concentration of hydrogen peroxide typically used in professional salon lighteners?
34What is the purpose of an acidifier in post-color shampoos or conditioners?
35Which action should be avoided for at least 48 hours after a haircolor service to prevent premature color fade?
36How does high hair porosity affect the processing of haircolor?
37Which alkalizing agent is used as a gentler alternative to ammonia in some professional haircolor formulas?
38What role do buffering agents play in haircolor formulations?
39Which haircolor category still requires developer but only deposits color without significant lift?
40Into which layer of the hair shaft do permanent haircolor molecules primarily penetrate?
41What is the standard mixing ratio for most powder lighteners used in bleaching services?
42During the oxidation process in permanent haircolor, primary intermediates combine with which compounds to form large colored molecules?
43What is a likely outcome of using haircolor developer past its expiration date?
44In high-lift color applications, why is it important to apply product in precise 1/4-inch sections?
45Why might over-porous hair appear lighter immediately after a color service than intended?
46What is the oxidation product formed from p-phenylenediamine during the haircoloring process?
47Compared to ammonia, what is an advantage of using ethanolamine in haircolor formulations?
48What is the primary purpose of a predisposition (patch) test before an oxidative haircolor service?
49Which ingredient in oxidative haircolor is most commonly associated with allergic sensitization in clients?
50What is the maximum concentration of ammonia generally allowed in most professional permanent haircolor products?
51Why are coupler molecules blended with primary intermediates in haircolor formulations?
Learning Goals

Study Outcomes

  1. Analyze Single-Process Haircoloring -

    Identify what coloring process lifts and deposits color in one application, understanding how to achieve desired results efficiently.

  2. Interpret Color Tone -

    Understand what identifies the warmth, coolness or neutrality of a color and how these temperature cues guide formulation choices.

  3. Differentiate Lightener Types -

    Compare which lighteners are considered on-the-scalp lighteners versus off-the-scalp options to maintain safety and precision during application.

  4. Explain Demi-Permanent Haircolor -

    Define demipermanent haircolor in Milady's system, recognizing its lift-and-deposit properties and ideal use cases.

  5. Apply Color Chemistry Principles -

    Use foundational chemistry concepts to predict outcomes, adjust formulations, and troubleshoot color results.

  6. Evaluate Real-World Scenarios -

    Test your haircoloring know-how with quiz questions inspired by Milady chapters to solidify theory and refine practical skills.

Study Guide

Cheat Sheet

  1. Oxidative Haircoloring -

    Oxidative or permanent haircolor uses ammonia and hydrogen peroxide to both lift (lighten) the natural pigment and deposit new dyes in one application, answering "what process lightens hair and deposits color in one application." According to Milady's Cosmetology textbook, ammonia opens the cuticle while peroxide penetrates and oxidizes natural melanin. Mnemonic trick: "OPEN" (Oxidize, Penetrate, Emerge, New shade).

  2. Color Theory Basics -

    Understanding warmth, coolness, or neutrality hinges on the color wheel: warm tones (reds, golds) vs. cool tones (ash, blue), with neutral sitting between. Use the phrase "Red Cancels Green, Blue Cancels Orange" to memorize complementary neutralizers. Industry sources like the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists endorse this approach for precise tone correction.

  3. On-the-Scalp Lighteners -

    On-the-scalp lighteners are typically cream or oil-based formulas with lower pH and persulfate blends, making them gentler for face-to-scalp applications. The American Academy of Dermatology notes they minimize scalp irritation while delivering up to 4 levels of lift. Always perform a strand test to ensure predictable lift and scalp safety.

  4. Demi-Permanent Haircolor -

    According to Milady, demi-permanent haircolor uses low-volume peroxide (10 - 15 vol) and smaller dye molecules to deposit color without significant lift, making it ideal for toning or blending grays. It lasts 20 - 28 shampoos and is a deposit-only process. Recall "Demi = Deposit Mostly" to distinguish it from permanent services.

  5. Developer Volume & Lift Chart -

    Developers come in 10, 20, 30, and 40 volume strengths; roughly, 10 vol deposits only, 20 vol lifts 1 - 2 levels, 30 vol lifts 2 - 3, and 40 vol lifts 3 - 4 levels. Milady's formula guide advises matching volume to desired lift: "Volume ÷ 10 = Levels of Lift." This quick equation helps you choose the right developer for consistent results.

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Updated Feb 19, 2026