Permanent hair colors are typically mixed with which of the following?

Permanent hair colors are primarily mixed with hydrogen peroxide. This substance serves an essential role in the coloring process because it acts as an oxidizing agent. When mixed with the color formula, hydrogen peroxide helps to open the hair cuticle, allowing the color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft effectively. This penetration is crucial for achieving a long-lasting color result, as it ensures that the pigments can deposit into the hair and remain there for a substantial amount of time.

Additionally, hydrogen peroxide also initiates the chemical reaction that not only deposits color but alters the natural pigment within the hair. The reaction causes the natural melanin to lift and enables the new color to settle in its place. This is why permanent hair color, which is meant to provide a lasting change, necessitates the use of hydrogen peroxide as a standard component in its formulation.