Arkansas Barber Practice Exam

What is the function of a toner in hair coloring?

1. To neutralize unwanted tones in bleached hair

2. To add shine to the hair

3. To darken the natural hair color

4. To permanently alter the hair structure

The correct answer is: To neutralize unwanted tones in bleached hair

A toner is specifically designed to neutralize unwanted tones in bleached hair. When hair is lightened, particularly through bleaching, it can develop undesirable shades, such as yellow or brassy tones. Toners contain pigments that counteract these unwanted hues; for example, violet pigments can cancel out yellow tones, leaving the hair with a more balanced and natural color. This corrective action is crucial in achieving the desired look in blonde and highlighted hair, making toners an essential tool in the hair coloring process. The other options focus on different aspects of hair care and coloring. Adding shine is typically associated with finishing products or gloss treatments rather than toners. Darkening the natural hair color is accomplished through permanent or semi-permanent hair dyes, not toners. Lastly, toners do not permanently alter the hair structure; they work on the outer part of the hair to adjust color without changing the hair's intrinsic qualities.