Which term describes a hair color product that deposits color, does not lighten, and has a slightly alkaline pH?

• A. Direct dye
• B. Temporary color
• C. Semi-Permanent
• D. Demi-Permanent

Answer: (C)

This describes how color products interact with hair pigment: one that deposits color without lifting the natural color, and does so with a slightly alkaline environment. Semi-permanent color fits this because it deposits pigment onto the hair without using a strong developer to lift the cuticle, so there is little to no lightening. The slightly alkaline pH helps the pigment adhere to the hair fibers without causing noticeable lift, which is why the color fades gradually over multiple washes rather than changing the underlying shade. Temporary or direct dyes can deposit color too, but they tend to be more surface-level, wash out quickly, and aren’t defined by that subtle, lasting adhesion with a mild alkaline balance. Demi-permanent color would lift a bit more due to the small amount of developer used, so it doesn’t match the “does not lighten” part as well.