What happens during the oxidation process in hair coloring?

What happens during the oxidation process in hair coloring?

• A. Color molecules fade away
• B. Color molecules form and are trapped inside the cortex
• C. The cuticle layers shed
• D. The medulla becomes pigment-rich

Answer: (B)

During oxidation, the small, colorless dye precursors are activated by the developer (usually hydrogen peroxide). They oxidize and link together to form larger pigment molecules. These newly formed color molecules penetrate the cuticle and become trapped in the cortex, where they develop and stay, producing the final shade. The cuticle needs to lift slightly to allow entry, and the medulla isn’t where typical hair color is deposited. Fading happens over time with washing and exposure, not during the initial oxidation step.

During oxidation, the small, colorless dye precursors are activated by the developer (usually hydrogen peroxide). They oxidize and link together to form larger pigment molecules. These newly formed color molecules penetrate the cuticle and become trapped in the cortex, where they develop and stay, producing the final shade. The cuticle needs to lift slightly to allow entry, and the medulla isn’t where typical hair color is deposited. Fading happens over time with washing and exposure, not during the initial oxidation step.