PSI Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which of the following would under-lightened hair leave behind?

1. Orange tint

2. Yellow tint

3. Red tint

4. Brown tint

The correct answer is: Orange tint

Under-lightened hair typically leaves behind an orange tint. When lightening hair, the natural pigments in the hair are lifted according to the stages of color. As hair is lightened, it moves through various shades, starting with the warm undertones that are inherent in the hair’s natural color. If the hair is not lightened enough, the underlying pigment that is revealed can often be a warm orange, especially in darker hair shades. The presence of an orange tint is primarily seen in darker brown and black hairs when they are lightened. If the bleaching process does not reach the yellow stage, which would indicate a more complete lifting of the color, the orange will remain. This is a common outcome for those who may not lighten their hair sufficiently to achieve a blonde or lighter look. Other tints, such as yellow, red, or brown, can also occur depending on the individual hair and the processes used, but specifically, orange is the most common residual shade left when hair is under-lightened.