Iowa Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The indication for a color retouch primarily revolves around the growth of the client's natural hair color at the roots. As hair grows, the difference between the natural color of the roots and the previously applied color becomes more pronounced. This regrowth shows a clear line of demarcation, which indicates that the hair color no longer looks even or seamless. A retouch is needed to recolor the roots and blend them with the rest of the hair, ensuring a uniform appearance.

While faded color, color damage, and uneven color may require some form of correction or adjustment, they do not specifically signal the need for a retouch as clearly as the regrowth does. Faded color may simply indicate that the color needs refreshing but not necessarily a retouch, and color damage might require a different approach focused on health restoration rather than just color application. Uneven color may necessitate correction techniques rather than a standard retouch procedure. Thus, the growth of the natural hair color is the most definitive reason for performing a retouch.