Mississippi Cosmetology Board Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

In hair coloring, the role of a toner is primarily to adjust the hair color tone. After the bleaching or lightening process, hair can often exhibit unwanted undertones, such as brassiness or yellow hues. A toner is specifically designed to neutralize these unwanted tones and enhance the overall color result, achieving a more desired and balanced appearance.

For instance, a purple toner may be used to counteract yellow undertones in blonde hair, effectively creating a cooler tone. Similarly, a blue toner can be utilized to neutralize orange tones in brassy hair. This process is crucial for achieving the perfect shade and ensuring the hair color appears vibrant and well-coordinated.

This understanding highlights the importance of toners in the hair coloring process, making it clear why adjusting hair color tone is their primary function. Other options, such as lightening hair color, protecting hair from damage, or enhancing shine, do not capture the specific purpose of a toner, which is focused on tonal adjustments rather than these other effects.