Illinois Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term "hue" in hair color theory specifically refers to the color itself. It denotes the basic attribute of color, encompassing the primary and secondary colors on the color wheel, such as red, blue, green, yellow, etc. This term is fundamental in color theory because it helps distinguish one color from another without considering additional aspects like brightness, darkness, saturation, or undertones.

Understanding hue is essential for hairstylists when selecting colors for clients, as they need to identify the specific color they are working with, especially when mixing or applying different shades. For instance, when a stylist talks about achieving "a warm hue" or "a cool hue," they are discussing the primary color being used and how it fits into the overall spectrum of the color. This foundational concept enables professionals to communicate effectively about color choices and achieve desired results in hair coloring. Other terms like lightness, intensity, or undertone describe different characteristics of colors but are not synonymous with hue itself.