How Much 20 Volume Developer to Mix with Hair Color?
As you already know, I’m a big fan of experimenting with hair colors. I love trying new shades and going crazy with my hair. But, something I’ve had to learn through trial and error is how to properly mix developer and hair color.
The wrong ratio of developer to hair color can cause several problems, such as uneven color, fading, or even damage. So, to make things easier for you, I’m going to share everything I’ve learned about mixing 20 volume developer with hair color.
Developer Basics
Before diving into mixing ratios, it’s essential to understand what a developer is. A developer (also known as peroxide) opens the hair cuticle to allow the color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft. The higher the volume of the developer, the stronger it is and the more it will lift (lighten) the hair.
20-Volume Developer
A 20 volume developer is a medium-strength developer. It can lift hair up to two levels, making it suitable for covering gray hair or slightly lightening darker hair. It’s also gentle enough to use on most hair types without causing excessive damage.
Mixing Ratios
Now, let’s talk about the mixing ratios. The general rule of thumb is to use equal parts of developer and hair color, which means a 1:1 ratio. In other words, for every 1 ounce of hair color, you’ll need 1 ounce of developer.
However, you may need to adjust the ratio depending on the desired results. For example, if you want to lift hair more than two levels, you can increase the amount of developer to a 1:1.5 ratio (1 ounce of hair color, 1.5 ounces of developer). Conversely, if you want a more subtle color change, you can reduce the amount of developer to a 1:0.5 ratio (1 ounce of hair color, 0.5 ounces of developer).
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips and expert advice to help you get the perfect color results:
- Always use a non-metallic bowl and applicators when mixing developer and hair color.
- Mix the developer and hair color thoroughly until there are no streaks or lumps.
- Apply the hair color to dry, unwashed hair.
- Follow the processing instructions on the hair color box.
- Rinse the hair thoroughly after processing.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about mixing 20 volume developer with hair color:
- Q: What happens if I use too much developer?
- A: Using too much developer can cause hair damage, including breakage, dryness, and loss of elasticity.
- Q: What happens if I use too little developer?
- A: Using too little developer can make hair color deposit unevenly and fade quickly.
Conclusion
Mixing 20 volume developer with hair color is a critical step in achieving the desired color results. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve beautiful, healthy-looking hair.
Do you have any tips or tricks for mixing 20 volume developer with hair color? Share them in the comments below.
