When evaluating whether a color correction plan is viable, given the starting color, what should you assess?

• A. Only consider the client's budget.
• B. Ignore starting color.
• C. Compare target shade to starting shade; test with strand; ensure target can be achieved within safe lift ranges and porosity.
• D. Pick a random shade.

Answer: (C)

When planning color correction, the essential step is to judge what the starting shade will allow and what the target shade will require. Start by comparing the target shade with the starting shade to understand how much lift and pigment adjustment you’ll need. Then run a strand test to preview the actual result on that hair, confirming whether you can reach the desired color safely on this client.

You also must ensure the target shade is achievable within safe lift ranges for the hair’s porosity. Porosity affects how hair takes lift and deposit—high porosity can need gentler processing to avoid over-processing, while low porosity may require adjustments to timing or products. If the needed lift or deposit would push the hair beyond what its porosity can handle, the plan isn’t viable.

Budget, ignoring the starting color, or randomly selecting a shade don’t address feasibility. The viability hinges on how far the starting color is from the target, confirmed results on a strand, and whether the plan stays within safe lift and porosity limits.