How much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color? (2024)

Monika Petite on

Are you ready to take your hair game to the next level? Well, then you better buckle up because we're about to dive into the wonderful world of hair coloring and hair developers! So, how much 20 volume developer should you mix with dye?

Now, I know what you're thinking - "Hair developers? What are those? Some kind of mad scientist potion?" But fear not, my lovely friends, because I am here to guide you through everything you need to know about hair developers, specifically the infamous 20 volume developer.

Table of Contents

  • How much 20 volume developer should you mix with hair color?
  • What is a hair developer?
  • How to choose the right developer?
  • Why do you have to mix it in with your color?
  • How to measure hair color and developer?
  • How to use a 20-volume developer?
  • Best tips on mixing hair dye and developer well
  • Benefits of hair developer
  • People also ask:
    • What happens if you put too much developer in hair dye?
    • How much 20-volume developer to mix with bleach?
    • How much developer do I use for 2 oz of hair color?
    • What does 1 part to 2 parts mean in hair color?
    • What happens if you use too much 20 volume developer?
    • What happens if you don't add enough developer to hair color?
    • How long should you leave a 20 volume developer on?
    • Does developer make your hair lighter or darker?
    • Do you need developer when dying hair darker?
  • Conclusion

I'll be covering all the important questions like how much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color, why it's important to get the right proportions, and even what happens if you mess up! And don't worry, I'll make sure to keep things light and fun because let's be real, nobody wants to read a boring, stuffy article about hair dye.

So grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and get ready to become a hair coloring pro!

How much 20 volume developer should you mix with hair color?

How much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color? (1)

The general rule is to use one part of hair dye and two parts of developer (or 1:2) while mixing hair color. That means, if you have 2 oz of hair color, you should use 4 oz of a developer. This magical proportion will ensure that you get the correct amount of color molecules and developer to cover every strand of hair on your head.

However, the correct ratio of developer and hair color also depends on several factors including the hair's length, thickness, and the desired outcome. If you have thicker or longer hair, you may need to use a different ratio to ensure that the color is evenly distributed throughout your hair.

Hair LengthHair Thickness20 Developer Mixing Ratio
ShortThin1:1
ShortThick1:1.5
MediumThin1:1.5
MediumThick1:2
LongThin1:2
LongThick1:2.5

Author's note: Keep in mind that those numbers are general recommendations. Please read the manufacturer's mixing ratio before applying.

It's also important to keep in mind that the amount of developer you need may vary depending on your desired outcome, natural hair color, and the specific brand of hair color you're using. So, it's always necessary to read the manufacturer's instructions and do a strand test before coloring your entire head.

What is a hair developer?

How much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color? (2)

The hair developer, also known as an oxidizing agent, is a creamy substance that goes with the hair color and is an essential component in the hair coloring process. It contains hydrogen peroxide, which opens the hair cuticle and allows the color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft. In other words, the developer is the magical potion that makes your hair dye dreams come true! The strength of the developer is measured in volume, and it ranges from 10 to 40 volumes. The higher the volume, the more lifting power it has.

Developer VolumeLifting PowerIdeal For
10 VolumeMinimal lifting powerColoring hair of the same level or darker
20 VolumeStandard lifting powerLightening hair by one or two levels
30 VolumeHigh lifting powerLightening hair by two to three levels
40 VolumeMaximum lifting powerLightening hair by four levels or more

Author's note: Please keep in mind that, the developer is not your hair's BFF, it's got hydrogen peroxide in it which can wreak havoc on your precious locks. And if you thought going big or going home was the way to go, think again! The higher the volume you use, the more your hair will be screaming for mercy ☠️. Don't say I didn't warn you!

How to choose the right developer?

How much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color? (3)

Ah, the age-old question. Well, my dear color enthusiasts, the answer is simple – it all depends on what you want to achieve! If you're aiming for a dramatic change, like going from brunette to platinum blonde, you'll need a higher-volume developer to lift those pesky natural pigments. But if you just want to darken your locks or cover those grays, a lower-volume developer will do the trick. And let's not forget about the trusty 20 volume developer, the MVP of hair coloring, providing just the right amount of lifting power for those moderate changes. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different volumes and see what works best for your hair goals.

Why do you have to mix it in with your color?

Well, the developer contains hydrogen peroxide, which helps to open up the hair cuticle and allow the color pigments to work their magic. By mixing the developer with your hair color, you activate the pigments and ensure that they penetrate each strand of hair evenly, giving you that flawless, salon-worthy color. So, don't skip the mixing, and make sure you give your color the chance to shine!

Author's note: In other words, if you don't use a developer you will wash off your hair dye with your first shower.

How to measure hair color and developer?

After we know how much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color, we need to know how to measure it. When it comes to measuring hair color and developer, precision is key. You don't want to end up with a hair color disaster because you didn't use the right amount of developer. A digital scale is your best friend in this situation.

How much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color? (4)

Firstly, make sure to have separate bowls for the dye and developer, and don't use any metallic utensils. This is because metal can cause a chemical reaction with the developer and affect the final color outcome.

Then, simply weigh out the amount of dye and developer that you need for your desired ratio. This will typically be a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio for most hair colors, but always double-check the manufacturer's instructions to be sure.

Once you have the correct amounts weighed out, mix them together. And voila, you're ready to start applying the color to your hair. Remember, a little precision goes a long way when it comes to hair color, so take your time and measure accurately.

Pro tip: Lots of people don't have a digital scale, so if you're one of them you can also use:
- 🥄 Measuring spoons
- 🥛 Measuring cups
- 💉 Syringe

How to use a 20-volume developer?

Using a 20-volume developer is relatively easy.

  1. Mix the developer with the hair color.
  2. Apply the mixture to the hair, making sure to cover all areas evenly.
  3. Leave the developer mix on for 30-45 minutes, depending on the desired results and the hair type.
  4. Rinse with warm water and shampoo thoroughly.

Best tips on mixing hair dye and developer well

It's important to keep a few things in mind when mixing developer and dye:

  • Always wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.

  • Use a plastic bowl and utensils instead of metal ones, as metal can interfere with the chemical process.

  • Mix the dye and developer thoroughly to avoid any clumps or uneven color.

  • If you have long or thick hair, you may need to use more dye and developer. It's always better to have too much than too little.

  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the dye and developer. The instructions will give you the exact amount of each ingredient you need and the recommended processing time.

  • Use a digital scale to measure the exact amount of dye and developer. This will ensure that you get the correct ratio and avoid poor results.

  • Start at the roots and work your way down. This will ensure even coverage.

  • For a more dramatic change, use a higher volume developer. For a more subtle change, use a lower-volume developer.

PRO TIP: You can save your hair color and developer for later if you haven't mixed them yet. The hair color has a pretty long expiration period, so you can use it even in 2-3 years. Although if you've mixed it already, you need to throw it away.

Benefits of hair developer

Hair developer is an essential part of the hair coloring process. Here are some of the benefits of using hair developer:

  • It helps to open up the hair cuticles, allowing the color molecules to penetrate the hair fiber.

  • It lightens the hair when used with bleach, allowing for more drastic color changes.

  • It allows for customization of the color intensity and shade.

  • It helps to ensure even color distribution throughout the hair.

  • It can be used with permanent hair dye to cover gray hair and achieve a more vibrant color.

People also ask:

What happens if you put too much developer in hair dye?

Short answer: 📛You can damage your hair

Oh boy, that's a recipe for disaster! Using too much developer can lead to over-processing, which means that the hair cuticles can get damaged, leaving the hair looking dull, dry, and brittle. Plus, the color won't turn out the way you want it to, and you might even end up with a funky, uneven color that looks like a unicorn threw up on your head.

How much 20-volume developer to mix with bleach?

Short answer: 🧪1:2 ratio of bleach to developer

When it comes to bleaching your hair, it's important to remember that less is more. You don't want to end up with straw-like hair that feels like it's been through a tornado. Generally, a 1:2 ratio of bleach to developer is recommended, but always read the manufacturer's instructions before you start mixing. And whatever you do, don't overdo it with the developer - trust me, your hair will thank you for it.

How much developer do I use for 2 oz of hair color?

Short answer: 🧪2-4 oz

Ah, the age-old question. The answer is: it depends. Different brands and types of hair color require different amounts of developer, so always read the instructions on the box. As a general rule, a 1:2 ratio of hair color to developer is recommended, but you may need to adjust the proportions depending on the color line and the desired results. And if math isn't your strong suit, don't worry - just use a digital scale to measure the correct amount.

What does 1 part to 2 parts mean in hair color?

Short answer: 🪔It represents the mixing ratio

Well, my dear, it means that you need to be good at math. Kidding! Sort of.... "1 part to 2 parts" refers to the ratio of hair color to developer. In other words, if you're using 2 oz of hair color, you'll need to use 4 oz of developer. It's a simple concept, but it's important to get the right proportions in order to achieve the desired color. And remember, always read the instructions on the box and use a non-metallic bowl and plastic utensils to mix.

What happens if you use too much 20 volume developer?

Short answer: 📛You can damage your hair

Hope you didn't do anything wrong but..... Using too much 20 volume developer can lead to over-processing, which means that the hair cuticles can get damaged, leaving the hair looking dull, dry, and brittle. Plus, the color won't turn out the way you want it to, and you might even end up with a funky, uneven color that looks like a tie-dye gone wrong. So, use the right amount of developer and avoid turning your hair into a hot mess.

What happens if you don't add enough developer to hair color?

Short answer: 👁‍🗨You might end up with poor results.

If you don't add enough developer to your hair color, you might end up with a lackluster, uneven color that looks like you just dipped your hair in a bucket of paint. The hair color won't develop properly, which means that the color molecules won't penetrate the hair shaft and you'll be left with a patchy mess. So, always make sure to use the correct ratio of hair color to developer, and don't skimp on the developer if you want to avoid a hair color disaster.

How long should you leave a 20 volume developer on?

Short answer: 🕠Generally, up to 30 minutes

Well, my friend, it depends on the hair type and the desired results. Generally, a 20 volume developer can be left on for up to 30 minutes, but always read the instructions on the box and do a strand test beforehand to make sure that your hair can handle it. And remember, timing is everything - leaving the developer on for too long can lead to over-processing, while not leaving it on long enough can result in poor color results.

Does developer make your hair lighter or darker?

Short answer:🔄 None of the above

The answer, my friend, is neither. Developer alone won't make your hair darker or lighter. Its main purpose is to activate the color molecules in the hair dye and help them penetrate the hair shaft for a more permanent result. So if you want a lighter or darker shade, it's all about the hair dye you choose.

Do you need developer when dying hair darker?

Short answer: 👎If it's the same shade - No

Technically, no, you don't need developer to darken your hair. But hold your horses, there's a catch. If you want to change your hair color to a darker shade than your natural color, you'll still need a hair dye that contains a small amount of developer to help the color molecules penetrate the hair shaft. However, you can get away with using a lower volume developer, such as a 10-volume developer, to achieve a darker shade than your natural color.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you want to achieve your desired hair color, knowing how much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color is essential. Mixing hair dye and developer can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can achieve a perfect color every time. Remember to choose the right volume developer for your hair type and desired results, measure carefully, and mix thoroughly. With a little practice, you'll be a pro at coloring your hair in no time!

How much 20 volume developer to mix with hair color? (2024)
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