What is a fundamental reason for applying barrier cream before hair coloring?

Applying a barrier cream before hair coloring serves as a protective layer between the skin and the hair dye, significantly reducing the likelihood of scalp irritation. Hair coloring products often contain chemicals that can be harsh on sensitive skin, leading to reactions such as redness, itching, or burning sensations. By using a barrier cream, cosmetologists help to safeguard the skin from direct contact with these irritating substances, ensuring a more comfortable experience for the client.

While enhancing hair color, ensuring an even application, and speeding up the coloring process are important considerations in the hair coloring process, they are not the primary reasons for using a barrier cream. The main focus of this practice is to protect the client's skin from potential harm caused by the dye, making it a critical step in professional hair coloring services.