This system provides a structured visual representation of hair color options within the Matrix SoColor hair color line. It typically displays swatches of the various shades available, often organized by level and tone. These charts can be physical tools, like printed cards or books, or digital resources, like online selectors or apps.
A standardized visual guide is essential for both hair professionals and clients. Stylists utilize such resources to determine the appropriate shade for a client’s desired look, considering their current hair color and the desired outcome. For clients, a clear overview of available colors facilitates informed decision-making and manages expectations. The development of such systematic color charts reflects the evolution of the hair coloring industry toward greater precision and predictability.
Understanding the organization and application of a professional hair color system is crucial for achieving desired results. The following sections will delve into specific aspects of hair color selection, application techniques, and maintenance.
1. Shade Selection
Accurate shade selection is paramount when using a professional hair color system. The Matrix SoColor color chart serves as the primary tool for navigating the diverse range of available shades and achieving predictable results. Careful consideration of several factors ensures the chosen shade aligns with the desired outcome.
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Understanding the Level System
Hair color levels represent the degree of lightness or darkness, typically ranging from 1 (blackest black) to 10 (lightest blonde). The SoColor chart organizes shades by level, allowing stylists to quickly identify options within the desired lightness range. For instance, a client seeking a medium brown would focus on levels 4-6. Accurate level identification is fundamental to achieving the desired result.
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Identifying Tone
Tone refers to the warmth or coolness of a hair color. SoColor shades encompass a spectrum of tones, from cool ash and beige to warm gold and copper. The color chart often uses numerical or alphabetical codes to denote tone. Understanding these designations is crucial for neutralizing unwanted undertones or achieving a specific tonal direction, such as neutralizing brassiness in blonde hair.
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Considering Underlying Pigment
Natural hair contains underlying pigments that influence how artificial color appears. For example, dark hair often contains red or orange undertones. The SoColor chart, combined with knowledge of underlying pigment, allows stylists to anticipate how a chosen shade will interact with the existing pigment and adjust formulations accordingly to achieve the desired result. This may involve using a specific developer or adding a neutralizing tone.
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Formulating for Gray Coverage
The SoColor chart often designates shades specifically formulated for gray coverage. These shades offer higher pigment concentration for optimal blending and coverage of gray hairs. Understanding these designations is vital for clients seeking full gray coverage. The chart can help identify shades that offer both coverage and desired tonal qualities.
By carefully evaluating these aspects in conjunction with the SoColor chart, stylists can confidently select the ideal shade for each client, ensuring predictable and desirable color results. This precision in shade selection minimizes the risk of unwanted tones and maximizes client satisfaction.
2. Tone Identification
Accurate tone identification is crucial for achieving desired results with the Matrix SoColor system. The SoColor color chart facilitates this process by visually representing the various tones available within each shade family. Tone refers to the warmth or coolness of a hair color, ranging from cool ash and beige to warm gold and copper. The chart typically employs a systematic labeling convention, often using numbers or letters to denote specific tonal values. Understanding this system allows for precise selection of the appropriate tone to achieve the desired aesthetic and address specific color correction needs.
For instance, if a client desires a cool, ashy blonde, the stylist can consult the SoColor chart to identify shades within the target level that possess the desired ash tone. Conversely, if a client seeks to neutralize unwanted brassiness in their blonde hair, the chart can guide the selection of a shade with a violet-based tone, as violet counteracts yellow/orange tones. Without proper tone identification, achieving these specific color goals becomes significantly more challenging, potentially resulting in unwanted warmth, coolness, or brassiness. This highlights the practical significance of tone identification as a core component of effective SoColor chart utilization.
In summary, effective use of the Matrix SoColor color chart necessitates a thorough understanding of tone and its impact on the final hair color. The chart provides a crucial visual guide for identifying and selecting appropriate tones, enabling stylists to achieve predictable and desirable results while addressing specific color correction challenges. This precision in tone selection ensures client satisfaction and reinforces the importance of tone identification in the broader context of professional hair coloring.
3. Level System
The Level System is integral to the Matrix SoColor color chart, providing a standardized scale representing the lightness or darkness of a hair color. This system typically ranges from 1 (blackest black) to 10 (lightest blonde), with each number representing a distinct level of lightness. The SoColor chart organizes shades according to this system, allowing for efficient navigation and selection of the appropriate color level. Understanding the Level System is fundamental to achieving predictable color results when using SoColor. For example, a client desiring a light brown would fall within the mid-level range (e.g., levels 5-7), while someone seeking a dark blonde would be in a higher level range (e.g., levels 8-9). Without accurate level identification, the final color may be significantly lighter or darker than intended.
The Level System also plays a crucial role in formulating color corrections and addressing specific client needs. For instance, lifting dark hair to a lighter level requires understanding the interplay between the existing hair level, the target level, and the appropriate developer strength. Attempting to lift multiple levels without considering the underlying pigment and the limitations of the product can lead to unwanted tones or damage. Similarly, depositing color onto lighter hair necessitates accurate level assessment to ensure the desired color saturation and depth. Practical application of the Level System, in conjunction with the SoColor chart, ensures predictable outcomes and minimizes the risk of undesirable color shifts. Consider a scenario where a stylist aims to achieve a level 7 warm blonde on a client with a natural level 4 base. Accurate assessment of the starting level allows the stylist to determine the necessary lift and select the appropriate SoColor shade and developer volume to reach the target level while controlling the underlying pigment and achieving the desired warm tone.
In summary, the Level System serves as a critical framework within the Matrix SoColor color chart, providing a standardized language for understanding and manipulating hair color lightness. Its practical application is essential for achieving predictable color results, formulating effective color corrections, and addressing specific client needs. Mastery of the Level System empowers stylists to navigate the SoColor chart with precision, minimizing the potential for color discrepancies and maximizing client satisfaction.
4. Underlying Pigment
Underlying pigment, the natural color molecules present within the hair shaft, plays a crucial role in how artificial color appears. Understanding underlying pigment is essential for utilizing the matrix socolor color chart effectively and achieving predictable color results. The chart, while providing a visual guide to the available shades, does not explicitly reveal how these shades will interact with an individual’s unique underlying pigment. Therefore, knowledge of underlying pigment principles is crucial for successful color formulation.
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Melanin Types and Their Influence
Hair color is primarily determined by the type and amount of melanin present. Eumelanin produces brown and black pigments, while pheomelanin produces red and yellow pigments. The ratio of these melanin types determines the natural hair color and influences how it will react to artificial color. For example, hair with high levels of pheomelanin will likely exhibit warm tones, even after application of a cool-toned SoColor shade. The SoColor chart, used in conjunction with an understanding of melanin types, allows stylists to anticipate and address potential tonal shifts.
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Level and Underlying Pigment Relationship
Underlying pigment becomes more apparent as hair is lightened. Darker hair levels generally contain higher concentrations of underlying pigment, which needs to be considered when lifting to lighter levels. Failure to account for underlying pigment can result in unwanted warmth or brassiness. The SoColor chart facilitates selection of appropriate shades and developers for lifting, but understanding underlying pigment informs the process. For example, lifting dark brown hair (level 3) to a light blonde (level 9) might reveal underlying orange tones, requiring neutralization with a cool-toned shade from the SoColor chart.
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Color Correction and Neutralization
Underlying pigment plays a critical role in color correction. Unwanted tones, often the result of underlying pigment exposure during lightening, can be neutralized by selecting SoColor shades with complementary tones. For instance, orange tones can be neutralized with blue-based shades, while yellow tones can be neutralized with violet-based shades. The SoColor chart, used alongside color theory principles, guides this neutralization process. It helps stylists select corrective shades and understand potential tonal shifts based on underlying pigment.
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Consultation and Client Communication
Discussing underlying pigment with clients helps manage expectations and ensures a collaborative approach to color selection. Explaining how underlying pigment might influence the final color outcome fosters trust and transparency. Using the SoColor chart as a visual aid during the consultation process helps clients visualize potential results and understand the rationale behind specific shade recommendations. Addressing underlying pigment proactively contributes to client satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of color discrepancies.
In conclusion, understanding underlying pigment is integral to effective utilization of the matrix socolor color chart. This knowledge enables stylists to anticipate color results, formulate precise color mixtures, perform accurate color corrections, and manage client expectations. By integrating principles of underlying pigment with the SoColor system, stylists achieve predictable and desirable color outcomes, showcasing the importance of this foundational knowledge in professional hair coloring.
5. Color Families
Color families represent distinct groupings of shades within the Matrix SoColor system, categorized by their dominant tonal characteristics. The SoColor color chart organizes these families systematically, often using visual cues like color-coded sections or tabs. Common color families include warm (golds, coppers, reds), cool (ashes, violets, blues), and neutral (beiges, browns). Understanding these families is crucial for navigating the SoColor chart effectively and achieving desired tonal outcomes. This organizational structure facilitates efficient shade selection based on desired warmth or coolness. For example, a client seeking a vibrant copper tone can quickly locate relevant shades within the warm family on the SoColor chart, streamlining the selection process.
Effective utilization of color families requires understanding their interplay with other elements within the SoColor system. For instance, selecting a shade within a specific color family must also consider the client’s natural hair level and underlying pigment. A cool-toned shade applied to hair with significant underlying warm pigment might result in a neutralized, rather than a purely cool, result. The SoColor chart, in conjunction with knowledge of color families, enables stylists to anticipate these interactions and formulate accordingly. Consider a scenario where a client with a level 6 warm brown base desires a level 8 ash blonde. The stylist must select a SoColor shade from the cool family with sufficient lifting power to reach the target level while also neutralizing the existing warm undertones. This scenario highlights the practical significance of understanding color families within the broader context of the SoColor system.
In summary, color families provide a crucial organizational framework within the Matrix SoColor color chart. This structure simplifies shade selection based on desired tonal direction, facilitating efficient navigation of the extensive SoColor range. Integrating knowledge of color families with other SoColor system components, such as level, underlying pigment, and developer selection, empowers stylists to achieve predictable and desirable color outcomes. Mastery of this framework enhances the stylist’s ability to translate client desires into precise color formulations, reinforcing the importance of color families as a foundational element within the SoColor system.
6. Application Techniques
Effective application techniques are essential for maximizing the performance of the Matrix SoColor system and achieving the desired color results indicated on the SoColor color chart. The chart provides a visual guide to the available shades and tones, but achieving these precise outcomes relies heavily on proper application. Factors such as product mixing ratios, application method (e.g., virgin application, retouch, color correction), and sectioning techniques significantly influence the final color. Improper application can lead to uneven color saturation, unwanted tonal shifts, or inadequate gray coverage, even with accurate shade selection from the chart.
Consider a scenario where a stylist aims to achieve a uniform, vibrant red using a SoColor shade selected from the chart. Even with the perfect shade choice, inconsistent application can result in patchy color or variations in intensity. Proper product saturation, consistent application speed, and meticulous sectioning are crucial for ensuring even distribution of color and achieving the vibrant, uniform result indicated on the chart. Similarly, when performing a root retouch, precise application to the new growth area is essential to avoid overlapping onto previously colored hair, which can lead to banding or darkening. Precise application techniques, guided by the principles outlined in SoColor educational resources, complement the information provided on the color chart, ensuring predictable and consistent outcomes.
In summary, the Matrix SoColor color chart serves as a crucial guide for shade selection, but the realization of these chosen shades relies heavily on proper application techniques. Factors such as product mixing, application method, and sectioning play a significant role in achieving the desired color saturation, tone, and coverage. Mastery of these techniques, combined with a thorough understanding of the SoColor color chart, empowers stylists to achieve predictable and desirable color results, minimizing potential discrepancies and maximizing client satisfaction. The synergy between accurate shade selection and precise application techniques underscores the interconnectedness of these elements within the SoColor system.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Matrix SoColor color chart and its utilization within the SoColor hair color system. Clarity on these points facilitates effective use of the system and promotes successful color outcomes.
Question 1: How often is the Matrix SoColor color chart updated?
Matrix regularly updates its color chart to reflect new shade introductions, formula adjustments, or product innovations. Staying current with the latest chart ensures accurate representation of available shades and optimal color results. Contact a Matrix representative or consult authorized distributors for information on the most recent edition.
Question 2: Can the SoColor color chart guarantee precise color results?
While the chart serves as a crucial guide for shade selection, numerous factors influence the final color outcome, including natural hair color, underlying pigment, hair porosity, developer choice, and application technique. The chart provides a visual representation of achievable shades, but variations can occur based on individual hair characteristics and application variables.
Question 3: How does one interpret the alphanumeric codes on the SoColor chart?
Matrix employs a specific coding system on its SoColor chart to denote shade level, tone, and reflectance. Understanding this system is crucial for accurate shade selection. Educational resources and Matrix representatives can provide detailed explanations of the coding conventions used on the chart.
Question 4: Are digital versions of the SoColor color chart available?
Yes, Matrix often provides digital color charts, apps, or online tools to complement physical charts. Digital resources may offer interactive features, such as shade visualization tools or formulation calculators, enhancing the shade selection process. Check the official Matrix website or authorized distributors for availability.
Question 5: How should the SoColor color chart be used in client consultations?
Presenting the SoColor chart during consultations allows clients to visualize available shades and participate actively in the color selection process. Explaining the chart’s organization, level system, and tonal designations enhances client understanding and facilitates informed decision-making.
Question 6: Where can one obtain a physical copy of the Matrix SoColor color chart?
Authorized Matrix distributors, beauty supply stores, and professional salons typically carry physical copies of the SoColor color chart. Contact a Matrix representative or consult authorized distributors for specific locations.
Understanding the Matrix SoColor color chart and its application within the SoColor system empowers both stylists and clients to achieve desired color results. Utilizing the chart effectively, in conjunction with professional guidance and proper application techniques, maximizes color precision and client satisfaction.
The subsequent section will delve further into specific SoColor product categories and their applications within various coloring scenarios.
Tips for Utilizing a Professional Hair Color Chart
Optimizing color selection and application requires a nuanced understanding of professional hair color charts. The following tips provide practical guidance for navigating these tools effectively.
Tip 1: Accurate Lighting is Crucial: Evaluate hair color and charts under consistent, neutral lighting to avoid misinterpreting tones and levels. Natural daylight or professional salon lighting provides the most accurate assessment.
Tip 2: Consider Hair History: Previous color treatments, chemical processes, and hair condition significantly influence how new color will appear. Factor these elements into shade selection.
Tip 3: Strand Tests Provide Certainty: Perform strand tests before full application to preview the color result and adjust formulation if necessary. This minimizes the risk of undesirable outcomes.
Tip 4: Consistent Chart Use Builds Proficiency: Regular use of the color chart reinforces understanding of its organization, level system, and tonal designations, leading to more accurate and efficient shade selection.
Tip 5: Consult Manufacturer Resources: Supplement chart usage with manufacturer-provided educational materials, including technical guides and training resources, for comprehensive product knowledge.
Tip 6: Collaboration Enhances Understanding: Engage in discussions with colleagues or mentors regarding shade selection and formulation challenges. Shared expertise enhances color accuracy and problem-solving abilities.
Tip 7: Maintain Chart Integrity: Protect physical charts from damage and ensure accurate color representation. Replace faded or damaged charts promptly.
Consistent application of these tips enhances the effectiveness of hair color charts as essential tools within the professional coloring process. These practices promote accurate shade selection, predictable color results, and increased client satisfaction.
The following section concludes this comprehensive guide to understanding and utilizing professional hair color charts.
Conclusion
This exploration of the Matrix SoColor color chart has highlighted its significance as a foundational tool within the SoColor hair color system. From understanding the level system and identifying underlying pigment to navigating color families and mastering application techniques, the color chart serves as an essential guide for achieving predictable and desirable color results. Its systematic organization empowers stylists to translate client aspirations into precise color formulations, facilitating informed decision-making and minimizing the risk of unwanted outcomes.
Effective utilization of the Matrix SoColor color chart, combined with continuous professional development and a commitment to precision, elevates the art of hair coloring. This dedication to mastery ensures client satisfaction and reinforces the importance of ongoing education within the ever-evolving landscape of professional hair color.
