Rhode Island Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam

Semi-permanent hair color is designed to add color to the hair without lifting or altering the existing natural pigment. It typically contains no ammonia and uses a mixture that allows the color to deposit onto the hair shaft, providing a more subtle change that gradually fades with washes. This type of color is ideal for those who wish to enhance their natural hue or cover gray hair without making a drastic change.

In contrast, permanent hair color works by lifting the natural pigment through a chemical process, allowing for more dramatic color changes. Temporary hair color is often meant for short-term use and can wash out easily, but still may not be entirely true to the original hair color. Lightening agents specifically function to lighten the natural color, making them unsuitable options for someone seeking to retain their original shade while just enhancing it.

Therefore, semi-permanent hair color stands out as the correct choice for those looking to add color without lifting their natural hair color.