Which of the following accurately describes permanent hair color products?

Permanent hair color products are designed to provide long-lasting results by chemically altering the structure of the hair. This process involves mixing the color product with hydrogen peroxide, which acts as an oxidizing agent. The hydrogen peroxide opens the hair cuticle, allowing the color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft and interact with the natural pigments. This combination enables the dye to not only deposit color but also to lighten the natural hair color as part of the process.

Using hydrogen peroxide is essential for the efficacy of permanent hair color, as it activates the dye and ensures that the color becomes an integral part of the hair's structure. This leads to a longer-lasting color outcome compared to temporary or semi-permanent options, which typically do not involve this level of chemical processing and may wash out more easily over time.