When it comes to coloring black hair, achieving the desired results can be challenging, especially when it comes to selecting the right volume developer. The volume developer plays a crucial role in determining the final color outcome, and using the wrong one can lead to disappointing results. In this article, we will delve into the world of volume developers and explore the best options for black hair.
Understanding Volume Developers
Volume developers, also known as oxidizing agents, are used in conjunction with hair color to activate the color formula and achieve the desired results. They come in different volumes, ranging from 5 to 40, with each volume having a specific purpose. The volume of the developer determines the amount of lift and the final color outcome.
How Volume Developers Work
Volume developers work by releasing oxygen molecules that penetrate the hair shaft and break down the pigment. The amount of oxygen released depends on the volume of the developer. Higher volume developers release more oxygen, resulting in more lift and a lighter color. Lower volume developers release less oxygen, resulting in less lift and a darker color.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Volume Developer
When choosing a volume developer for black hair, there are several factors to consider. These include:
- Hair type and condition: Black hair can be fragile and prone to breakage, so it’s essential to choose a developer that is gentle and won’t cause further damage.
- Desired color outcome: If you want to achieve a significant color change, you may need to use a higher volume developer. However, if you’re looking for a subtle change, a lower volume developer may be more suitable.
- Previous color treatments: If you’ve had previous color treatments, you may need to use a lower volume developer to avoid over-processing the hair.
Volume Developer Options for Black Hair
When it comes to choosing a volume developer for black hair, there are several options available. Here are some of the most common ones:
10 Volume Developer
A 10 volume developer is a popular choice for black hair, as it provides a gentle lift without causing excessive damage. It’s ideal for:
- Tone-on-tone color applications: If you want to maintain the same color tone but add some dimension and shine, a 10 volume developer is a great option.
- Color corrections: If you need to correct a previous color application, a 10 volume developer can help to neutralize the color without causing further damage.
20 Volume Developer
A 20 volume developer is a good option for black hair that needs a moderate lift. It’s ideal for:
- Single-process color applications: If you want to achieve a single-process color application, a 20 volume developer can provide the necessary lift without causing excessive damage.
- Highlighting and lowlighting: If you want to add some highlights or lowlights to your black hair, a 20 volume developer can help to create a natural-looking dimension.
30 Volume Developer
A 30 volume developer is a high-lift developer that’s ideal for black hair that needs a significant color change. It’s ideal for:
- Double-process color applications: If you want to achieve a double-process color application, a 30 volume developer can provide the necessary lift to achieve the desired results.
- Bleaching and lightening: If you want to bleach or lighten your black hair, a 30 volume developer can help to achieve the desired results.
How to Choose the Right Volume Developer for Your Black Hair
Choosing the right volume developer for your black hair can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Consult a professional stylist: If you’re unsure about which volume developer to use, consult a professional stylist who can help you determine the best option for your hair.
- Consider your hair type and condition: If you have fragile or damaged hair, choose a lower volume developer to avoid further damage.
- Think about your desired color outcome: If you want to achieve a significant color change, choose a higher volume developer. If you’re looking for a subtle change, choose a lower volume developer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Volume Developers
When using volume developers, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:
- Using too high a volume developer: Using too high a volume developer can cause excessive damage and lead to breakage.
- Not following the instructions: Failing to follow the instructions can lead to disappointing results and damage to the hair.
- Not doing a strand test: Failing to do a strand test can lead to unexpected results and damage to the hair.
Conclusion
Choosing the right volume developer for black hair can be challenging, but by understanding the different options available and considering your hair type and condition, you can achieve the desired results. Remember to always follow the instructions, do a strand test, and consult a professional stylist if you’re unsure. With the right volume developer, you can achieve the perfect color outcome and maintain healthy, beautiful hair.
| Volume Developer | Lift | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Volume | 1-2 levels | Tone-on-tone color applications, color corrections |
| 20 Volume | 2-3 levels | Single-process color applications, highlighting and lowlighting |
| 30 Volume | 3-4 levels | Double-process color applications, bleaching and lightening |
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can choose the right volume developer for your black hair and achieve the perfect color outcome. Remember to always prioritize your hair’s health and safety, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional stylist if you’re unsure.
What is a volume developer and how does it work?
A volume developer is a type of hair developer used in conjunction with hair dye or bleach to achieve the desired color or lightness. It works by releasing oxygen, which helps to open up the hair cuticle and allow the color or bleach to penetrate more evenly. The volume of the developer refers to the amount of oxygen it releases, with higher volumes releasing more oxygen.
The right volume developer can make a big difference in the outcome of your hair coloring or bleaching process. If you use a developer that is too low in volume, the color or bleach may not penetrate evenly, resulting in patchy or uneven color. On the other hand, if you use a developer that is too high in volume, it can cause damage to your hair, especially if you have fragile or over-processed hair.
What are the different types of volume developers available?
There are several types of volume developers available, ranging from 10 volume to 40 volume. The most common types of volume developers are 10 volume, 20 volume, and 30 volume. 10 volume developers are the lowest and are usually used for depositing color or making subtle changes to the hair color. 20 volume developers are the most commonly used and are suitable for most hair coloring and bleaching applications. 30 volume developers are higher in volume and are usually used for making more dramatic changes to the hair color or for bleaching the hair.
When choosing a volume developer, it’s essential to consider your hair type, the desired outcome, and the type of hair dye or bleach you are using. If you’re unsure about which volume developer to use, it’s always best to consult with a professional hairstylist or colorist who can recommend the best option for your hair.
How do I choose the right volume developer for my black hair?
Choosing the right volume developer for black hair can be challenging, but there are a few things to consider. First, consider the type of hair dye or bleach you are using. If you’re using a permanent hair dye, you’ll typically want to use a 20 volume developer. If you’re using a semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair dye, you may be able to get away with a 10 volume developer. If you’re bleaching your hair, you’ll typically want to use a higher volume developer, such as 30 volume or 40 volume.
It’s also essential to consider your hair’s porosity and elasticity. If you have low porosity hair, you may need to use a higher volume developer to help the color or bleach penetrate more evenly. If you have fragile or over-processed hair, you may want to use a lower volume developer to minimize damage.
Can I use a higher volume developer to achieve faster results?
While it may be tempting to use a higher volume developer to achieve faster results, it’s essential to exercise caution. Using a higher volume developer than recommended can cause damage to your hair, especially if you have fragile or over-processed hair. Higher volume developers release more oxygen, which can cause the hair cuticle to lift too much, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
Instead of using a higher volume developer, consider using a developer with a built-in accelerator or using a pre-color treatment to help the color or bleach penetrate more evenly. You can also consider using a lower volume developer and leaving the color or bleach on for a longer period to achieve the desired results.
How do I mix the volume developer with hair dye or bleach?
Mixing the volume developer with hair dye or bleach is a crucial step in the hair coloring or bleaching process. The ratio of developer to dye or bleach will depend on the type of product you are using and the desired outcome. Typically, the ratio is 1 part dye or bleach to 1 part developer, but this can vary depending on the product and the desired results.
When mixing the developer with dye or bleach, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and mix the products in a well-ventilated area. Wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin and clothing stains. Mix the products in a plastic bowl and use a tint brush to apply the mixture to your hair.
Can I use a volume developer with natural hair dyes?
While volume developers are typically used with synthetic hair dyes, some natural hair dyes may also require the use of a developer. However, it’s essential to note that natural hair dyes may not work as well with volume developers as synthetic dyes do. Natural hair dyes may require a different type of developer or may not require a developer at all.
If you’re using a natural hair dye, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. This will help you determine whether the dye requires a developer and what type of developer to use.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when using a volume developer?
One of the most common mistakes to avoid when using a volume developer is using too high a volume developer for your hair type. This can cause damage to your hair, especially if you have fragile or over-processed hair. Another common mistake is not following the instructions carefully, which can result in uneven color or damage to your hair.
To avoid these mistakes, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and do a strand test before applying the color or bleach to your entire head. This will help you determine the right volume developer to use and ensure that you achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.