New Jersey Barber and Hairstyling Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The purpose of a toner in hair coloring is primarily to neutralize unwanted undertones in the hair. After hair has been lightened, it often reveals underlying pigments that might not be desirable. For example, blonde hair can sometimes take on yellow or brassy tones. A toner works by depositing a subtle hue onto the hair, which can help balance these unwanted tones, resulting in a more desirable final color. This process is critical for achieving the specific shades and nuances that clients often desire, such as ash blondes or cool browns, which help in enhancing the overall aesthetic of the hair color.

The other options relate to different aspects of hair treatment or coloring. Lightening the hair color involves using bleach or high-lift color rather than a toner. Adding shine may be achieved through various hair care products but is not the primary function of toner. Conditioning the hair is a separate process aimed at improving hair health and texture, not color correction. Thus, toner's specific role as a color-neutralizing agent is essential in the hair coloring process.