What Is Developer For Hair?
A hair developer is an oxidant cream that contains hydrogen peroxide. It is an essential part of the hair coloring process, as it helps to open the hair cuticle and allow the hair color to penetrate deep into the hair shaft.
The strength of the developer is measured in volume, and it ranges from 10 to 40 volumes. The higher the volume, the more lifting power it has.
For example, a 10-volume developer will lift the hair by one shade, while a 40-volume developer will lift the hair by four shades.
It is important to choose the right developer for your hair type and desired results. If you have fine hair, you will want to use a lower volume developer to avoid damaging your hair. If you have thick hair, you can use a higher volume developer to lift the hair more.
Types of Hair Developers
There are three main types of hair developers:
- Volume 10 developer: This is the weakest developer and is best for minor hair color changes like brown to black.
- Volume 20 developer: This is a medium-strength developer and is good for covering gray hair or lifting hair by one or two shades.
- Volume 30 developer: This is a strong developer and is best for lifting hair by three or four shades.
- Volume 40 developer: This is the strongest developer and should only be used by professionals. It can be very damaging to hair and should not be used on fine or damaged hair.
How to Choose a Hair Developer?
When choosing a hair developer, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Your hair type: If you have fine hair, you will want to use a lower volume developer to avoid damaging your hair. If you have thick hair, you can use a higher volume developer to lift the hair more.
- Your desired results: If you want to make a minor hair color change, you can use a lower volume developer. If you want to lift your hair by several shades, you will need to use a higher volume developer.
- Your experience level: If you are a beginner, it is best to start with a lower volume developer. As you gain experience, you can experiment with higher volume developers.
How to Use a Hair Developer?
To use a hair developer, you will need the following:
- Hair color
- Hair developer
- Mixing bowl
- Brush
- Gloves
- Old towel
Instructions:
- Wash your hair and towel dry.
- Apply a cream or oil to your scalp to protect it from the developer.
- Mix the hair color and developer according to the instructions on the package.
- Apply the mixture to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.
- Let the mixture sit for the recommended amount of time.
- Rinse the mixture out of your hair with cool water.
- Apply a deep conditioner to your hair to help repair any damage that may have occurred.
Tips for Using a Hair Developer
Here are a few tips for using a hair developer:
- Do a strand test before using the developer on your entire head of hair. This will help you to determine how the developer will affect your hair color and texture.
- Protect your scalp with a cream or oil. This will help to prevent the developer from irritating your scalp.
- Use a deep conditioner after coloring your hair. This will help to repair any damage that may have occurred.
What are the Risks of Using a Hair Developer?
There are a few risks associated with using a hair developer. These risks include:
- Hair damage: Hair developers can damage hair if they are not used correctly. This damage can include dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
- Scalp irritation: Hair developers can irritate the scalp if they are not used correctly. This irritation can cause redness, itching, and burning.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to hair developers. If you have any concerns about using a hair developer, it is best to consult with a hair stylist or dermatologist.
How to Avoid the Risks of Using a Hair Developer
There are a few things you can do to avoid the risks of using a hair developer:
- Choose the right developer for your hair type and desired results.
- Use a lower volume developer if you have fine hair.
- Use a higher volume developer if you have thick hair.
- Do a strand test before using the developer on your entire head of hair.
- Protect your scalp with a cream or oil.
- Use a deep conditioner after coloring your hair.
- Avoid heat styling your hair as much as possible.
- Use a heat protectant when you do use heat styling tools.
- Get regular trims to remove split ends.
- Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
- Deep condition your hair regularly.
By following these tips, you can help to minimize the risks of using a hair developer and achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.
FAQs for Hair Developer
What is a hair developer?
A hair developer is a chemical that is used to activate hair dye. It helps the dye to penetrate the hair shaft and produce a more vibrant color. Hair developers come in different strengths, which determine how much the hair will be lifted.
What are the different strengths of hair developers?
Hair developers are available in four strengths: 10 volume, 20 volume, 30 volume, and 40 volume. The higher the volume, the stronger the developer and the more the hair will be lifted.
What is the difference between a hair developer and a bleach?
A hair developer is used to activate hair dye, while bleach is used to lighten hair. Bleach is a stronger chemical than a hair developer and can cause more damage to the hair.
What is the best hair developer for me?
The best hair developer for you will depend on your hair color and the results you want to achieve. If you have dark hair and want to lighten it, you will need to use a higher volume developer. If you have light hair and want to darken it, you can use a lower volume developer.
How do I use a hair developer?
To use a hair developer, you will need to mix it with hair dye according to the instructions on the package. Once the dye and developer are mixed, apply it to your hair and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the package. After the time has elapsed, rinse the dye out of your hair and style as usual.
What are the risks of using a hair developer?
There are a few risks associated with using a hair developer, including:
- Hair damage: Hair developers can cause hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to hair developers. If you experience any itching, redness, or swelling after using a hair developer, stop using it immediately and consult with a doctor.
- Chemical burns: Hair developers can cause chemical burns if they come into contact with the skin. If you get hair developer on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
How can I protect my hair from damage when using a hair developer?
There are a few things you can do to protect your hair from damage when using a hair developer:
- Use a good quality hair dye and developer.
- Do not use a higher volume developer than you need.
- Apply the dye and developer evenly to your hair.
- Do not leave the dye and developer on your hair for longer than the amount of time specified on the package.
- Use a deep conditioner after coloring your hair.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce the risk of damage to your hair when using a hair developer.
Conclusion
Hair developers are an essential part of the hair coloring process. By choosing the right developer and using it correctly, you can achieve the desired results without damaging your hair. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with using hair developers and to take steps to minimize those risks.
