After achieving the desired level through lightening, what is the color left in the hair referred to as?

The term that refers to the color left in the hair after achieving the desired level through lightening is known as contributing color. This color can affect the final hue that appears after a coloring process. When lightening hair, particularly on darker shades, the underlying pigments may still influence the overall color outcome.

Contributing color encompasses the natural pigments that remain in the hair even after the lightening process, and these pigments can vary from person to person based on their natural hair color. For instance, if you lighten dark brown hair, the resulting color might show warmer undertones, such as red or gold, due to the contributing color that remains.

Understanding contributing color is crucial for barbers and stylists, as it helps them predict the resulting shade and choose the right toners or colors to achieve the desired look. By considering contributing color, professionals can ensure more accurate and satisfying results in their coloring services.