For hair enthusiasts and professionals alike, the world of hair coloring and bleaching can be a complex and confusing realm. With so many products on the market, each with their own unique formulations and uses, it’s no wonder that myths and misconceptions abound. One of the most common questions asked by hair enthusiasts is whether 40 volume developer contains bleach. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of hair development and explore the answer to this question, as well as shed light on some common misconceptions and myths surrounding hair development.
Understanding Hair Development and Bleach
Before we can tackle the question of whether 40 volume developer contains bleach, it’s essential to understand the basics of hair development and bleach. Hair development refers to the process of lightening or coloring hair using chemical products. There are two primary types of hair development: bleach and developer.
Bleach is a strong chemical oxidizing agent that breaks down the pigment in hair, allowing it to be lightened or removed. There are two primary types of bleach: hydrogen peroxide and ammonia-based bleach. Hydrogen peroxide is the most commonly used bleach and is available in various strengths, ranging from 6% to 40%.
Developer, on the other hand, is a type of catalyst that helps to activate the bleach, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. Developers come in different volumes, with the most common being 10, 20, 30, and 40 volume.
The Role of 40 Volume Developer
40 volume developer is the strongest type of developer available on the market. It’s commonly used by professional hairstylists to achieve extreme lightening or to lift very dark hair. 40 volume developer is typically mixed with bleach to create a lightening solution that can lift hair up to 7 levels.
But here’s the catch: 40 volume developer is not a bleach. While it’s often used in conjunction with bleach, it’s a separate product that serves a distinct purpose. So, what exactly is 40 volume developer made of?
The Ingredients of 40 Volume Developer
40 volume developer typically consists of a combination of ingredients, including:
- Hydrogen peroxide: This is the primary active ingredient in 40 volume developer, responsible for breaking down the pigment in hair.
- Water: This is used to dilute the hydrogen peroxide and create a stable solution.
- Stabilizers: These are added to prevent the hydrogen peroxide from breaking down over time.
- pH adjusters: These are used to adjust the pH level of the developer to ensure it’s safe for use on hair.
Noticeably absent from this list is bleach. That’s because 40 volume developer is not a bleach. While it’s often used with bleach to achieve extreme lightening, it’s a separate product with its own unique formulation.
Common Misconceptions Surrounding 40 Volume Developer
Despite the fact that 40 volume developer doesn’t contain bleach, many people mistakenly believe it does. This misconception likely stems from the fact that 40 volume developer is often used with bleach to achieve extreme lightening. However, this doesn’t mean that 40 volume developer is a bleach.
Myth: 40 volume developer is too harsh and will damage your hair
Another common myth surrounding 40 volume developer is that it’s too harsh and will damage your hair. While it’s true that 40 volume developer is a strong product, it’s designed to be used by professionals who understand how to use it correctly.
When used correctly, 40 volume developer can be an incredibly effective tool for achieving extreme lightening or lifting very dark hair. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the product to your entire head.
The Benefits of 40 Volume Developer
So, what are the benefits of using 40 volume developer?
- Extreme lightening: 40 volume developer is capable of lifting hair up to 7 levels, making it an ideal choice for those looking to achieve extreme lightening.
- Quick results: 40 volume developer works quickly, typically taking between 20-40 minutes to achieve the desired results.
- Versatility: 40 volume developer can be used on a variety of hair types, including virgin, colored, and previously lightened hair.
Conclusion
So, does 40 volume developer contain bleach? The answer is a resounding no. While it’s often used with bleach to achieve extreme lightening, 40 volume developer is a separate product with its own unique formulation. By understanding the ingredients and benefits of 40 volume developer, you can make informed decisions about your hair care routine and achieve the results you desire.
Remember, it’s essential to use 40 volume developer correctly and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damage to your hair. If you’re unsure about how to use 40 volume developer, it’s always best to consult with a professional hairstylist who can guide you through the process.
With the right knowledge and tools, you can unlock the full potential of 40 volume developer and achieve the hair of your dreams.
What is 40 volume developer?
40 volume developer is a type of hair developer used in hair coloring and lightening processes. It is a highly concentrated solution that contains ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, which helps to open up the hair cuticle and allow color to penetrate. The volume of the developer refers to the strength of the solution, with 40 volume being one of the strongest and most commonly used.
The high concentration of hydrogen peroxide in 40 volume developer makes it highly effective at lifting hair color, but it can also be quite harsh on the hair. This is why it’s often recommended to use it with caution and follow proper application and processing instructions to avoid damage.
Does 40 volume developer contain bleach?
No, 40 volume developer does not contain bleach. While it is a strong solution, its active ingredient is hydrogen peroxide, not bleach. Hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in many hair care products, including hair dyes, lighteners, and developers. It works by breaking down the pigment in the hair, allowing the color to be lightened or changed.
That being said, some people may confuse the term “bleach” with “high-lift blonde” or “lightener”, which can be achieved with the use of 40 volume developer. However, these terms refer to the process of lightening the hair, not the presence of bleach in the product. 40 volume developer is a highly concentrated solution that can be used to achieve very light shades of blonde, but it does not contain bleach.
What is the difference between 40 volume developer and bleach?
The main difference between 40 volume developer and bleach is the way they work on the hair. 40 volume developer, as mentioned earlier, contains hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down the pigment in the hair to lighten it. Bleach, on the other hand, contains strong oxidizing agents that completely destroy the pigment in the hair, resulting in a complete loss of color.
Another key difference is the level of damage caused to the hair. While 40 volume developer can be harsh on the hair, bleach is much more aggressive and can cause significant damage, including breakage, dryness, and brittleness. Because of this, bleach is typically only used in extreme cases where a major color correction is needed, and even then, it’s often used with caution and under the guidance of a professional stylist.
Can I use 40 volume developer to achieve a bleach-blonde look?
While 40 volume developer can be used to achieve a very light blonde color, it’s not the same as using bleach to achieve a bleach-blonde look. 40 volume developer can lift the hair up to 7-8 levels, depending on the starting color and the condition of the hair. However, to achieve a true bleach-blonde look, you would need to use a strong bleach product, which can be much more damaging to the hair.
That being said, if you’re looking to achieve a very light blonde color without using bleach, 40 volume developer can be a good option. It’s essential to follow proper application and processing instructions, and to use a high-quality developer that is specifically formulated for lightening hair.
Is 40 volume developer safe to use on my hair?
40 volume developer can be safe to use on your hair if used correctly and with caution. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions to prevent damage. This includes doing a strand test before applying the developer to your entire head, using a pre-treatment to protect your hair, and applying a moisturizing treatment after the process is complete.
It’s also important to note that 40 volume developer is not suitable for everyone. If you have damaged, over-processed, or fragile hair, it’s best to avoid using this developer or to consult with a professional stylist who can guide you on the best course of action.
Can I use 40 volume developer on my skin or scalp?
No, you should never use 40 volume developer on your skin or scalp. This product is highly concentrated and is only intended for use on the hair. Using it on the skin or scalp can cause severe irritation, including redness, itching, and even chemical burns.
If you accidentally get 40 volume developer on your skin or scalp, rinse the area immediately with cold water and apply a soothing cream or ointment to help calm the skin. If the irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Can I mix 40 volume developer with other products?
You should never mix 40 volume developer with other products unless specifically instructed to do so by the manufacturer or a professional stylist. Mixing 40 volume developer with other products can cause unpredictable results, including over-processing, damage, and even fires.
In general, it’s best to follow the instructions provided with the product and to use it only as directed. If you’re unsure about how to use 40 volume developer or need guidance on mixing it with other products, consult with a professional stylist or contact the manufacturer for advice.