Do you want to learn how to lighten hair with developer like a pro? Whether you’re looking for a few highlights, a complete hair transformation or just want to lighten the shade of your natural hair, using developer is an effective and easy way to achieve the desired look. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to lighten your hair with developer at home.
What is developer?
In simple terms, developer is an oxidizing agent that is used to activate hair lightening or coloring products. It’s typically sold in liquid form and comes in varying strengths ranging from 10 volume to 40 volume. The higher the volume, the more lifting power the developer has.
Understanding volume and strength
The strength of developer is determined by the volume of hydrogen peroxide it contains. When mixed with hair color or lightening products, developer causes a chemical reaction that opens up the hair cuticle, allowing for color to penetrate the hair shaft.
The volume of developer you need depends on the natural color of your hair and the level of lightening you want to achieve. Lower volume developers, such as 10 or 20, are ideal for more subtle lightening or for use on fragile or damaged hair. Medium volume developers, such as 30, are great for lightening hair up to two shades lighter. If you want a more dramatic transformation or your hair is particularly dark, you might want to consider using 40 volume developer.
The step-by-step process
Here’s how to lighten your hair with developer like a pro:
Step 1: Prepare your work area
- Cover all surfaces with newspaper or towels to protect from potential spills.
- Wear an old shirt or towel you don’t mind getting dirty or stained.
- Wear gloves to avoid getting chemicals on your hands.
Step 2: Choose your developer and lightening product
Choose the developer strength and lightening product that are suitable for your hair color and type. Remember to read the instructions on the packaging carefully before beginning the process.
Step 3: Mix the developer and lightening product
Put on your gloves and mix the developer and lightening product according to the instructions on the packaging. Make sure the mixture is smooth and free of any lumps.
Step 4: Apply the mixture to your hair
- Divide your hair into sections and use a brush to apply the mixture evenly to your hair.
- Start applying at the end of your hair and work your way up to the roots, making sure all hair is covered.
- Avoid applying the mixture to your scalp to prevent irritation.
Step 5: Process the mixture
The processing time depends on your hair type and the developer strength you are using. Check the instructions on the packaging for recommended processing times.
Step 6: Rinse your hair
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
- Apply a conditioner to your hair to moisturize and nourish it after the lightening process.
Tips for success
Here are a few tips to ensure the best possible results when lightening your hair with developer:
- Do a patch test before applying the mixture to your hair to make sure you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients.
- Don’t wash your hair immediately before the lightening process, as natural oils in your hair can help protect it from damage.
- Avoid over-processing your hair. If you’re not happy with the results after the recommended processing time, rinse your hair and wait a few days before trying again.
Conclusion
With the right tools and technique, lightening your hair with developer can be a simple and effective way to achieve the look you want. Remember to always follow instructions carefully, choose the right strength of developer, and take proper precautions to protect yourself and your work area from chemical spills. With a little practice, you’ll be able to lighten your hair like a pro.
FAQs
- Can I lighten my hair with developer and shampoo?
- What strength developer should I use?
- How long does it take to lighten hair with developer?
- Can I use developer to lighten my hair without bleach?
No, developer and shampoo are not the same thing. Developer is an oxidizing agent that’s used to activate hair lightening or coloring products, while shampoo is a cleansing agent.
The strength of developer you need depends on the natural color of your hair and the level of lightening you want to achieve. Lower volume developers, such as 10 or 20, are ideal for more subtle lightening or for use on fragile or damaged hair. Medium volume developers, such as 30, are great for lightening hair up to two shades lighter. If you want a more dramatic transformation or your hair is particularly dark, you might want to consider using 40 volume developer.
The processing time depends on your hair type and the developer strength you are using. Check the instructions on the packaging for recommended processing times.
Developer on its own is not strong enough to lift your hair color without bleach. You’ll need to use a lightening product, such as bleach, along with the developer to achieve the desired lightening effect.
References
Dhurat R, Sukesh MS, Avhad G, Dandale A, Pal A, Pund P. A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study. Int J Trichology. 2013;5(1):6-11. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.114700
Lee WS, Lee JH, Choi JH, et al. Analysis of familial factors with early onset androgenetic alopecia in Korean males. Eur J Dermatol. 2006;16(2):211-214.