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Quizzes > Science > Chemistry

Milady Haircoloring Quiz: Test Your Color Chemistry Knowledge

Test your mastery of on-the-scalp lighteners and color tone identification!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
paper art illustration with brushes hair strands palettes on golden yellow background inviting haircoloring quiz

This quiz helps you practice which process lightens and deposits color in one application, plus key ideas like level, tone, on‑scalp lightener, and developer. Use it to spot gaps before an exam or a salon demo. When you finish, explore more in our practice set and get style ideas.

What is the process called that both lifts natural pigment and deposits artificial color in one application?
Semi-permanent color
Demi-permanent color
Double-process color
Single-process haircolor
Single-process haircolor uses an alkalizing agent and developer to lift natural pigment and deposit artificial color in a single application. This is different from double-process where hair is lightened before applying color. Demi and semi-permanent colors only deposit color and do not lift.
Which developer volume is typically used to achieve the maximum lift in single-process coloring?
30 volume
40 volume
10 volume
20 volume
A 40-volume developer contains the highest concentration of hydrogen peroxide (12 percent) and provides maximum lift when mixed with permanent haircolor. Lower volumes yield less lift and are used for deposit or moderate lift. Caution is advised as higher volumes can increase hair damage.
Which type of haircolor can deposit pigment but does not lighten natural melanin?
Deposit-only haircolor
Demi-permanent haircolor
Permanent haircolor
Semi-permanent haircolor
Deposit?only haircolor contains no lifting ingredients and only adds pigment to the hair without lightening natural melanin. Semi and demi?permanent colors may offer minimal lift due to low?level developer or acids. Permanent haircolor uses alkaline agents to lift and deposit.
What is the natural pigment in hair that gives it color?
Cysteine
Melanin
Collagen
Keratin
Melanin is the natural pigment found in the cortex of the hair that determines its color. Eumelanin produces brown to black hues, while pheomelanin produces yellow to red hues. Haircolor services work by altering or supplementing natural melanin.
At what stage on the decolorization chart does hair reach a pale yellow underlying pigment?
Stage 5
Stage 7
Stage 4
Stage 6
At Stage 6 on the decolorization chart, natural pigmentation has been lifted to a pale yellow. This level is often targeted when applying ash or cool-tone colors to neutralize unwanted warmth. Understanding stages helps achieve precise color results.
Which technique is used to lighten resistant gray hair before applying color?
Back-to-back coloring
Pre-softening
Frosting
Retouching
Pre-softening involves applying a mild lightener to resistant gray hairs to open the cuticle and lighten the pigment before the application of color. This allows for more even color uptake and gray coverage. It is especially useful on coarse or resistant hair types.
What is the typical pH range of permanent haircolor formulas?
3.5 to 4.5
9.0 to 10.0
5.5 to 6.5
11.0 to 12.0
Permanent haircolor formulas often have a high pH (9.0 to 10.0) to open the cuticle and allow color molecules to penetrate the cortex. Lower pH formulas are too acidic and would close the cuticle. The alkalinity comes from ammonia or alternative alkali.
Which developer volume is recommended for optimum gray hair coverage in permanent color?
40 volume
10 volume
30 volume
20 volume
A 20-volume developer is typically recommended for gray coverage because it provides enough lift to deposit color while ensuring reliable color penetration without excessive damage. Higher volumes can provide more lift but may compromise the integrity of the hair.
What is the role of ammonia in permanent haircolor formulations?
Seals the cuticle after coloring
Neutralizes hydrogen peroxide
Opens the hair cuticle
Acts as a depositing agent
Ammonia raises the pH of the hair, causing the cuticle to swell and open, which allows color molecules to penetrate the cortex. It is an essential alkalizing agent in permanent haircolor. After processing, the cuticle can be resealed during shampoo or conditioner.
Which type of haircolor requires an alkalizing agent to facilitate lifting of the natural pigment?
Demi-permanent haircolor
Semi-permanent haircolor
Temporary haircolor
Permanent haircolor
Permanent haircolor uses an alkalizing agent like ammonia to open the cuticle and allow hydrogen peroxide to remove natural pigment. Demi and semi-permanent colors use lower or no alkalizing agents and deposit without significant lift. Temporary haircolor coats the cuticle without chemical alteration.
A 20 volume developer will typically lift the hair how many levels when used with permanent haircolor?
3 levels
4 levels
1 level
2 levels
A 20-volume developer (6 percent hydrogen peroxide) will generally lift the hair by about two levels when mixed with permanent haircolor. Lower volumes offer less lift and are used mainly for deposit, while higher volumes give more lift.
Which classification of haircolor is non-oxidative and does not require a developer to deposit color?
Permanent haircolor
Oxidative haircolor
Demi-permanent haircolor
Semi-permanent haircolor
Semi?permanent haircolor does not contain ammonia or require a developer and simply coats the hair shaft with pigment. It lasts through several shampoos and fades gradually. Demi and permanent haircolors are oxidative and need a developer.
Which form of hair lightener is generally not recommended for direct scalp application?
Cream lightener
Powder lightener
Cream and oil blend
Oil lightener
Powder lighteners are typically more potent and can be too harsh for direct scalp contact, potentially causing irritation or chemical burns. Cream and oil lighteners are formulated to be milder and safer for scalp application. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
What is the minimum recommended time to wait after performing a predisposition (patch) test before applying haircolor?
30 minutes
1 hour
15 minutes
24 hours
A predisposition (patch) test should be observed for at least 24 hours to check for any allergic reaction to haircolor chemicals. Some guidelines recommend up to 48 hours, but 24 hours is a minimum standard. This helps ensure client safety.
Which of these is not a form of lightening product?
Neutralizer
High-lift tint
Bleach
Hydrogen peroxide
Neutralizers are used after lightening to bring the hair back to a normal pH and are not lightening agents. Hydrogen peroxide, bleach (lightener), and high-lift tints all lift or lighten hair color. Neutralizers close the cuticle and stop the chemical process.
What is the standard mixing ratio for most permanent haircolor formulations?
1:2
1:1
2:1
1:3
Most permanent haircolor formulas are mixed with developer at a 1:1 ratio, ensuring the correct balance of color molecules and hydrogen peroxide for effective lift and deposit. Manufacturers specify this ratio for optimal performance. Always follow the product instructions.
What is the typical mixing ratio for high-lift tint used in a single-process application?
1:2
1:3
2:1
1:1
High-lift tints are generally mixed with developer at a 1:2 ratio to achieve maximum lightening and correct tone. This increased developer ratio enhances lift without overemphasizing warmth. Always use the manufacturer's recommended ratio.
At Level 4 on the scale, which underlying pigment is primarily exposed during lightening?
Blue
Yellow
Orange
Red
At Level 4 (medium brown) the underlying pigment revealed is red or red-orange, which can produce brassy results if not neutralized. Understanding the exposed pigment at each level guides selection of toners to achieve desired neutralization.
Which color on the color wheel is used to neutralize unwanted orange tones in hair?
Red
Green
Violet
Blue
Blue is opposite orange on the color wheel, making it the complementary color used to neutralize orange tones in hair during toning services. Green neutralizes red, and violet neutralizes yellow.
Which developer volume is typically used to achieve approximately three levels of lift in permanent haircolor?
40 volume
20 volume
10 volume
30 volume
A 30-volume developer (9 percent hydrogen peroxide) generally provides about three levels of lift when used with permanent haircolor. It's a commonly chosen volume for significant lift without the increased damage potential of 40 volume.
Why is performing a strand test before a full-color application important?
To assess processing time and final shade
To check for allergic reaction
To evaluate cuticle thickness
To determine hair density
A strand test reveals how the hair reacts to the color formula, showing processing time, degree of lift, and final shade. It also alerts the stylist to any unusual hair behavior. This ensures accurate predictions and safety during a full application.
Which active ingredient in haircolor developer acts as the oxidizing agent?
Phloxine
Ammonia
Ethanolamine
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is the primary oxidizing agent in developer, releasing oxygen to lift natural pigment and oxidize color molecules. Ammonia is an alkalizing agent that raises pH but does not oxidize. Proper proportions ensure effective results.
What is the primary purpose of a haircolor filler?
To deposit only neutral tones
To close the cuticle after coloring
To open the cuticle before color application
To fill and replace missing underlying pigment
A filler is used to deposit missing underlying pigment in the hair before applying the desired color, ensuring even results and preventing patchiness or unwanted tones. Fillers can also equalize porosity. It's essential for dramatic level changes.
To achieve pastel shades successfully, hair must first be lightened to which level or stage?
Stage 7 (light blonde)
Stage 10 (white/blonde)
Stage 8 (very light blonde)
Stage 9 (lightest blonde)
Pastel shades require the removal of almost all natural pigment, lightening the hair to a level 10 (white/blond) as the base. Any residual pigment can alter the pastel tone. Proper lightening is critical for true pastel results.
Which toner tone would you choose to neutralize unwanted yellow tones on prelightened hair?
Red
Blue
Green-yellow
Violet
Violet toner neutralizes yellow tones because they are opposite on the color wheel. Blue neutralizes orange, and green neutralizes red. Proper toner selection refines final results.
Which developer volume is best for toning services on prelightened hair?
10 volume
30 volume
20 volume
40 volume
A 10-volume developer (3 percent hydrogen peroxide) is typically used for toning services to deposit color without additional lift. Higher volumes could lighten the hair further and alter the tone.
Which form of lightener is considered the gentlest option for sensitive or fragile hair?
No-mix lightening powder
Cream lightener
Oil lightener
Powder lightener
Oil lighteners are typically gentler than powders because they contain emollients and are formulated to reduce scalp irritation. They lift pigment more slowly and with less dryness. This gentle action suits fragile or chem-treated hair.
Why must a strand test always be performed when using a new haircolor formula?
To measure hair density
To determine the exact amount of developer needed
To check hair porosity
To assess how the color reacts and processes
A strand test shows how hair reacts to a new formula, indicating processing time, degree of lift, and true final shade. It helps prevent unwanted results and damage. It is a critical step for safety and accuracy.
When performing a root touch-up application, where should you apply the color first?
All sections simultaneously
Mid-lengths
Roots
Ends of the hair
During a root touch-up, color is applied to the roots first because the new growth needs full processing time. After the recommended root processing time, color is then applied to the mid-lengths and ends. This ensures consistent color and prevents over-processing.
What is the typical maximum processing time recommended for high-lift tint formulations?
20 minutes
60 minutes
30 minutes
45 minutes
High-lift tint formulations generally process for up to 45 minutes to achieve the desired lift while minimizing hair damage. Exceeding this time can lead to over-processing and breakage. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Which component in permanent haircolor serves as the primary intermediate that oxidizes and combines to form the final dye molecule?
Ammonia
Paraphenylenediamine
Metatoluidine
Hydrogen peroxide
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) is a primary intermediate haircolor molecule that oxidizes in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and couples with other molecules to form large colored dye complexes within the cortex. It is the most common primary intermediate in permanent haircolor formulations.
Which term describes the chemical reaction that causes haircolor molecules to polymerize and form larger color compounds inside the cortex?
Hydrolysis
Saponification
Polymerization
Reduction
Polymerization is the chemical process in which small, uncolored dye intermediates react and combine to form larger, colored dye molecules within the hair cortex. This reaction is initiated by hydrogen peroxide under alkaline conditions.
What is the maximum safe concentration of hydrogen peroxide typically used in professional salon lighteners?
12 percent
9 percent
20 percent
6 percent
Professional salon lighteners commonly use hydrogen peroxide concentrations up to 12 percent (40 volume) to achieve maximal lift. Concentrations higher than 12 percent are generally avoided due to the increased risk of hair damage and scalp irritation.
What is the purpose of an acidifier in post-color shampoos or conditioners?
To raise the hair's pH
To neutralize color molecules
To close the cuticle and balance pH
To add additional lift
Acidifiers lower the hair's pH after coloring, helping to close the cuticle and lock in pigment. This step also restores the hair to a more acidic, healthy pH balance.
Which action should be avoided for at least 48 hours after a haircolor service to prevent premature color fade?
Blow-drying
Shampooing the hair
Rinsing with cool water
Applying a leave-in conditioner
Shampooing immediately after color service can strip away surface pigments before they have fully set, leading to premature fade. Waiting 48 hours allows the cuticle to reseal around the color molecules.
How does high hair porosity affect the processing of haircolor?
Prevents color penetration
Slows down color processing
Allows faster uptake and potential over-processing
Has no effect
High porosity means raised or damaged cuticles, allowing chemical products to penetrate quickly. This can lead to faster processing times and potential over-processing if not monitored carefully.
Which alkalizing agent is used as a gentler alternative to ammonia in some professional haircolor formulas?
Urea peroxide
Sodium hydroxide
Hydrochloric acid
Ethanolamine
Ethanolamine is a gentler alkalizing agent used in some haircolor products to open the cuticle with less odor and reduced scalp irritation than ammonia. It still raises pH to allow color penetration.
What role do buffering agents play in haircolor formulations?
They maintain formula stability and pH
They act as primary color molecules
They increase developer strength
They bleach the hair
Buffering agents help maintain a stable pH in haircolor formulations, ensuring consistent performance and preventing formula separation. They contribute to the safety and efficacy of the color service.
Which haircolor category still requires developer but only deposits color without significant lift?
Demi-permanent haircolor
Temporary haircolor
Semi-permanent haircolor
Permanent haircolor
Demi-permanent haircolor requires a low-volume developer to activate the color but does not significantly lighten natural pigment. It deposits longer-lasting color compared to semi-permanent formulas.
Into which layer of the hair shaft do permanent haircolor molecules primarily penetrate?
Medulla
Cortex
Cuticle
Fibre
Permanent haircolor molecules penetrate the cortex of the hair shaft, where they react and form larger colored bonds. The cuticle serves as a protective outer layer that opens and reseals during processing.
What is the standard mixing ratio for most powder lighteners used in bleaching services?
1:2
1:3
1:1
2:1
Most powder lighteners are mixed with developer at a 1:2 ratio to achieve effective lightening. This ratio ensures the appropriate concentration of hydrogen peroxide for consistent lift.
During the oxidation process in permanent haircolor, primary intermediates combine with which compounds to form large colored molecules?
Couplers
Surfactants
Salts
Alkalizing agents
Primary intermediates combine with couplers during the oxidation process, under alkaline conditions provided by ammonia or ethanolamine, to form the large colored molecules that become trapped in the hair cortex.
What is a likely outcome of using haircolor developer past its expiration date?
Cuticle damage is reduced
Increased lift
Color fails to develop properly
Enhanced shine
Expired developer can lose strength as the hydrogen peroxide degrades over time, leading to insufficient oxidation and failure of the color molecules to develop. It may also increase the risk of inconsistent results.
In high-lift color applications, why is it important to apply product in precise 1/4-inch sections?
To increase processing time
To prevent developer evaporation
To ensure even distribution and consistent lift
To reduce color deposit
Sectioning the hair in 1/4-inch subsections ensures that the high-lift formula is applied evenly and saturates each strand completely, leading to uniform lift and tone. Improper sectioning can cause patchy or uneven results.
Why might over-porous hair appear lighter immediately after a color service than intended?
Because the cortex is undamaged
Because cuticles are raised allowing over-absorption of developer
Because it repels color molecules
Due to excessive pigment deposit
Over-porous hair has raised or damaged cuticle layers that allow the developer and color molecules to penetrate too deeply and too quickly, resulting in a lighter-than-intended outcome. Careful formulation adjustments are needed for porous hair.
What is the oxidation product formed from p-phenylenediamine during the haircoloring process?
Quinone diimine
Hydroquinone
Benzoquinone
Para-nitroaniline
During oxidation, p-phenylenediamine (PPD) is converted into quinone diimine, which then couples with other intermediates to form large colored dye molecules within the hair cortex. This transformation is central to permanent haircolor chemistry.
Compared to ammonia, what is an advantage of using ethanolamine in haircolor formulations?
Less odor and reduced scalp irritation
Lower surface tension
Higher alkalinity
Stronger lifting power
Ethanolamine raises pH to open the hair cuticle like ammonia but with less odor and gentler action, reducing scalp irritation. It is chosen for its user-friendly sensory profile while still allowing color penetration.
What is the primary purpose of a predisposition (patch) test before an oxidative haircolor service?
To test developer strength
To determine processing time
To check for potential allergic reactions
To measure hair porosity
A predisposition (patch) test is performed to detect any allergic or sensitization reactions to haircolor ingredients, particularly paraphenylenediamine and other intermediates. It is a critical safety measure to protect clients.
Which ingredient in oxidative haircolor is most commonly associated with allergic sensitization in clients?
Ethanolamine
Hydrogen peroxide
Ammonia
p-Phenylenediamine
p-Phenylenediamine (PPD) is a primary intermediate known to cause allergic sensitization in some clients, making patch testing essential. Alternatives and lower levels may be used for those with sensitivities.
What is the maximum concentration of ammonia generally allowed in most professional permanent haircolor products?
5 percent
15 percent
2 percent
10 percent
Professional permanent haircolor products typically contain up to 5 percent ammonia, which balances effective cuticle opening with manageable odor and scalp comfort. Concentrations above this can be too harsh for regular salon use.
Why are coupler molecules blended with primary intermediates in haircolor formulations?
To increase the developer's pH
To act as additional lifting agents
To expand the range of final shade outcomes
To reduce processing time
Couplers react with primary intermediates during oxidation to form specific colored dye molecules, allowing manufacturers to create a wide variety of shades. By varying coupler types, the shade range can be greatly expanded.
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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.

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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