The best developer for natural hair depends on several factors, including your hair's porosity, texture, and desired level of lift.
Understanding Developers
Developers, also known as peroxide, are used in hair color to lift the natural pigment and allow the color to deposit. Developers come in different strengths, measured in volume:
- 10 Volume Developer: This is the weakest developer, used for toning or adding subtle highlights.
- 20 Volume Developer: This developer is suitable for covering gray hair or achieving a level of lift of one to two shades.
- 30 Volume Developer: This is a popular choice for lifting hair by two to three levels, often used for achieving a lighter blonde.
- 40 Volume Developer: This developer is stronger and can lift hair up to four levels.
- 40 Volume Developer: This is the strongest developer and can lift hair by four to five levels, but it can be very damaging if used incorrectly.
Choosing the Right Developer
- Porosity: High porosity hair is more prone to damage and can absorb color quickly. Use a lower volume developer with porous hair.
- Texture: Coarser hair textures require stronger developers to lift the pigment.
- Desired Level of Lift: Consider the desired level of lift. If you want to lift your hair by one level, a 10 or 20 volume developer may be sufficient. For a dramatic color change, a 30 or 40 volume developer may be necessary.
Tips for Using Developer
- Consult a Professional: For best results, consult a professional hair stylist who can assess your hair and recommend the appropriate developer.
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before applying developer to your entire head.
- Follow Instructions: Follow the instructions on the developer bottle carefully.
- Don't Over-Process: Over-processing can cause damage to the hair.
Remember, using the right developer is crucial for achieving your desired color while minimizing damage.
