How does processing time differ for gray hair compared with pigmented hair?

• A. Gray hair can lift differently and may process longer; porosity and previous products also affect timing and results.
• B. Gray hair processes faster than pigmented.
• C. Processing time is identical for gray and pigmented hair.
• D. Porosity doesn't affect timing.

Answer: (A)

Gray hair behaves differently in the lightening process because there’s little or no pigment to remove, so the chemical reactions and how color molecules form can proceed in a different pace. This means the lift may not follow the same timing as pigmented hair and can require a longer processing period to reach the desired level. Porosity also plays a big role—gray hair often has a different porosity due to aging, which changes how easily the lightener penetrates and how the lift develops. The hair’s product history matters too; prior color or chemical treatments can alter the cuticle and internal bonds, shifting how the current formula behaves and how long it should stay on. All these factors together explain why gray hair may lift differently and need a different processing time than pigmented hair. Performing strand tests and adjusting timing accordingly is essential.