Details about How Color Processes

We all know that permanent hair color is also known as. oxidative hair color. That

is because the presence of oxygen.. and an oxidizing agent (peroxide) must be

present in order for the color to develop.

The chemical notation of hydrogen peroxide is H2O2. Two molecules of Hydrogen

mixed with two molecules of Oxygen. When peroxide is mixed with oxidative

(permanent) hair color, the peroxide acts like a "fuel". -- compare this to how

gasoline "fuels" the motor of a car.

As color develops, the peroxide begins to break down... and after about one hour, the

H2O2 becomes... H2O.. WATER! And, water no longer "fuels" that motor.. that "engine"

of permanent hair color. While some marginal deposit of tone might continue after

45 minutes to 1 hour. the simultaneous and effective "lift" and "deposit" involved in

the coloring process stops.

But that one oxygen molecule that separates from the original H2O2, does not simply

vanish. It becomes a negatively charged oxide.. or "free radical"... which modifies

the condition of the hair. According to hair color guru, Max Maisano, that free radical

spins out of control and creates what's known as reactive oxidative stress.. damage.

This is why Max and I have always agreed that a post color acidic treatment is absolutely

required when rinsing and shampooing hair color from the hair. I'm delighted to share

that Max will be joining Damion and I in class on Monday, July 24th in Naples, Florida.

We look forward to seeing you there! B