What does the term "bleaching" refer to in hair coloring?

The term "bleaching" in hair coloring specifically refers to the process of lightening the natural pigment in hair. This is achieved through the use of chemical agents, typically containing hydrogen peroxide or ammonia, which lift the color molecules from the hair shaft. When applied properly, bleaching can transform dark or medium hair colors to lighter shades, allowing for more vibrant hair colors or preparing the hair for subsequent coloring processes.

Bleaching does not involve adding color to the hair, conditioning it, or completely removing all color. Instead, the focus is on altering the existing pigment to achieve the desired lightness while retaining some level of the hair's natural hue. This understanding is crucial for cosmetologists when determining the appropriate techniques to achieve specific hair coloring goals.