Hair Colouring Theory and Application Flashcards

What is foil highlighting?

Answer: A technique where selected strands are woven out, coloured, and wrapped in foil to isolate them during processing

Foil highlighting involves weaving or slicing selected strands of hair, applying lightener or colour, and wrapping them in foil to separate them from uncoloured hair. The foil provides heat retention and prevents colour transfer.

What is the difference between highlights and lowlights?

Answer: Highlights are lighter than the base colour; lowlights are darker than the base colour

Highlights are strands coloured lighter than the natural or base colour to add brightness and dimension. Lowlights are strands coloured darker than the base to add depth, richness, and contrast.

What is the recommended mixing ratio for most professional permanent hair colours?

Answer: 1:1 colour to developer

Most professional permanent hair colours are mixed in a 1:1 ratio (equal parts colour to developer). However, some products and lighteners may require different ratios as specified by the manufacturer.

What is line of demarcation in hair colouring?

Answer: The visible line between new growth and previously coloured hair

The line of demarcation is the visible, often harsh line between the natural regrowth at the roots and the previously coloured hair. Proper retouch application blends this line for a seamless result.

What is colour theory's rule about applying warm colour over warm contributing pigments?

Answer: It will intensify and amplify the warm tones

Applying warm tones (gold, copper, red) over hair that already has warm contributing pigments will intensify the warmth. This must be considered when formulating — if the desired result is neutral, some cool tones may be needed in the formula.

Why is it important to record colour formulas in the client's file?

Answer: It ensures consistent results for future appointments and provides a reference for corrective work

Recording colour formulas, processing times, developers, techniques, and results in the client's record ensures consistency at future appointments and provides a critical reference if colour correction is needed.