New Hampshire Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The most suitable option for covering gray hair permanently is permanent color. This type of hair dye is designed with a formula that allows the color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft deeply and create a lasting effect. Permanent color typically contains ammonia and a developer that assists in lifting the natural pigment of the hair, enabling it to effectively cover gray strands by providing full and even pigmentation.

In contrast, semi-permanent and temporary colors do not offer the same level of longevity. Semi-permanent color can enhance the hair and blend gray hair but typically lasts fewer washes and does not provide full coverage for a significant duration. Temporary color, on the other hand, is designed for short-term use and washes out completely after just a few shampoos, making it unsuitable for those seeking long-lasting gray coverage.

Highlighting color is primarily used to create dimension in the hair by lightening specific sections, rather than uniformly covering gray hair. Therefore, it does not serve the purpose of achieving permanent coverage for gray strands. Permanent color is specifically formulated for full and lasting gray coverage, making it the appropriate choice in this scenario.