Delaware Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a toner in the hair coloring process?

1. To lighten the hair color

2. To add shine

3. To neutralize unwanted undertones after bleaching

4. To act as a conditioner

The correct answer is: To neutralize unwanted undertones after bleaching

The purpose of a toner in the hair coloring process is to neutralize unwanted undertones after bleaching. When hair is bleached, it often develops unwanted shades, such as brassy or yellow tones, particularly in lighter hair shades. Toners are specifically formulated to address these issues by introducing different pigments to the hair. For instance, a purple toner can cancel out unwanted yellow tones, creating a more balanced and desirable hair color. While other products can enhance shine or condition hair, these are not the primary roles of a toner in the context of managing the aftermath of bleaching. Toners serve a crucial role in achieving the final desired hue, ensuring that the shade looks polished and refined after the bleaching process.