In the permanent color procedure, the small colored molecules enter the hair with the aid of which alkaline substance?

In the permanent color procedure, the small colored molecules enter the hair with the aid of which alkaline substance?

• A. Sodium Hydroxide
• B. Ammonia
• C. Potassium Hydroxide
• D. Calcium Hydroxide

Answer: (B)

Opening the cuticle to let small dye molecules penetrate into the cortex is what makes permanent color work. Ammonia is the classic alkaline agent used because it quickly raises the pH and swells the hair, loosening the cuticle so the color precursors can enter and the oxidative color reaction can develop inside the cortex. The other bases listed are not typically used in standard color formulas: they’re harsher, less suitable for routine coloring, or simply not effective for lifting the cuticle in this context. So ammonia best achieves the necessary alkalinity to enable permanent color penetration.