Which term best describes permanent hair color in professional terminology?

• A. Non-oxidative tint
• B. Oxidative tints with ammonia
• C. Demi-permanent glaze
• D. Temporary dye

Answer: (B)

Permanent hair color relies on an oxidative process. These formulas use dye precursors that penetrate the cortex and then oxidize, forming larger pigment molecules that stay in the hair. To allow the color to enter the hair shaft, an alkali like ammonia is included in many permanent color systems, which lifts the cuticle and enables the oxidation reaction. That combination—oxidation plus ammonia—is why the term oxidative tints with ammonia best describes permanent color in professional terms.

Non-oxidative tint does not involve an oxidation reaction and mainly deposits color on or near the surface, so it isn’t permanent. Demi-permanent glaze uses a milder oxidative process with minimal to no ammonia, resulting in fade over time rather than lasting color. Temporary dye relies on direct dyes that coat the cuticle and wash out quickly.