California Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide.

A toner plays a crucial role in the hair coloring process, primarily by neutralizing unwanted tones that may arise after bleaching or lightening the hair. When hair is bleached, it can often develop tones that are undesirable, such as brassy or overly warm shades. Toners are specifically formulated to balance these tones by introducing specific color pigments into the hair.

For example, a purple toner is commonly used to counteract yellow tones, while a blue toner helps neutralize orange tones. The use of toner not only helps in achieving the desired final shade but also enhances the overall look by ensuring that the color is well-balanced and free from any unwanted hues that can detract from the overall appearance.

In contrast, options like lightening hair, adding volume, or protecting hair from heat do not capture the primary function of a toner, which is focused on color correction rather than structural or protective benefits.