Are you tired of using hair color products that don’t deliver the desired results? Do you struggle to achieve the perfect shade and tone? Look no further. In this article, we will delve into the world of hair color cream and developer, exploring the basics, benefits, and best practices for using these products to achieve salon-quality results at home.
Understanding Hair Color Cream and Developer
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of using hair color cream and developer, it’s essential to understand what these products are and how they work.
Hair color cream is a type of hair dye that comes in a creamy consistency. It’s usually applied to the hair shaft to deposit color, and it can be used to achieve a range of effects, from subtle, natural-looking shades to bold, vibrant colors.
Developer, on the other hand, is a liquid or cream product that’s mixed with hair color cream to activate the color and help it penetrate the hair shaft. Developers come in different volumes, which refer to the strength of the product. The most common volumes are 10, 20, and 30.
How Hair Color Cream and Developer Work Together
When you mix hair color cream with developer, the resulting mixture is called the “color formula.” The color formula is what actually colors your hair. Here’s how it works:
- The hair color cream contains color pigments that are deposited onto the hair shaft.
- The developer contains hydrogen peroxide, which helps to open up the hair cuticle and allow the color pigments to penetrate.
- When the color formula is applied to the hair, the hydrogen peroxide in the developer helps to break down the pigment molecules, allowing them to penetrate the hair shaft more easily.
- As the color formula processes, the pigment molecules are deposited onto the hair shaft, resulting in the desired color.
Choosing the Right Hair Color Cream and Developer
With so many hair color creams and developers on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones for your needs. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Consider your hair type: If you have damaged or over-processed hair, look for a hair color cream that’s formulated with nourishing ingredients to help repair and moisturize your locks.
- Think about the color you want to achieve: If you’re looking for a subtle, natural-looking shade, choose a hair color cream that’s formulated with gentle, non-damaging ingredients. If you’re looking for a bold, vibrant color, choose a hair color cream that’s formulated with more intense pigments.
- Choose the right developer volume: The volume of the developer you choose will depend on the level of lift you want to achieve. Here’s a general guide:
- 10 volume developer: 1-2 levels of lift
- 20 volume developer: 2-3 levels of lift
- 30 volume developer: 3-4 levels of lift
Popular Hair Color Cream and Developer Brands
There are many great hair color cream and developer brands on the market. Here are a few popular ones to consider:
- Wella
- L’Oréal Professionnel
- Redken
- Joico
- Matrix
How to Use Hair Color Cream and Developer
Now that you’ve chosen your hair color cream and developer, it’s time to learn how to use them. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Pre-Color Prep
Before you start coloring your hair, make sure to:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup.
- Towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture.
- Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands from stains.
Mixing the Color Formula
To mix the color formula, follow these steps:
- Read the instructions carefully to make sure you’re using the right ratio of hair color cream to developer.
- Mix the hair color cream and developer in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the fumes.
- Use a tint brush or applicator bottle to mix the color formula to ensure accurate and efficient application.
Applying the Color Formula
To apply the color formula, follow these steps:
- Section your hair into four quadrants to make it easier to apply the color formula.
- Apply the color formula to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.
- Use a tint brush or applicator bottle to apply the color formula to ensure accurate and efficient application.
Processing the Color Formula
To process the color formula, follow these steps:
- Leave the color formula on your hair for the recommended amount of time, usually 20-45 minutes.
- Keep an eye on the processing time to avoid over-processing, which can cause damage and dryness.
- Rinse the color formula out of your hair with warm water to remove any excess color.
Post-Color Care
After coloring your hair, make sure to:
- Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to help lock in the color and moisture.
- Avoid using hot water, which can cause the color to fade faster.
- Use a color-protecting spray or serum to help extend the life of your color.
Tips and Tricks for Using Hair Color Cream and Developer
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when using hair color cream and developer:
- Always do a strand test before applying the color formula to your entire head to ensure the desired results.
- Use a conditioning treatment after coloring your hair to help repair and moisturize your locks.
- Be patient and gentle when applying the color formula to avoid damaging your hair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when using hair color cream and developer:
- Using too much developer, which can cause damage and dryness.
- Leaving the color formula on for too long, which can cause over-processing and damage.
- Not doing a strand test, which can result in unexpected results.
Conclusion
Using hair color cream and developer can seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can achieve salon-quality results at home. Remember to choose the right products for your hair type and desired color, follow the instructions carefully, and be patient and gentle when applying the color formula. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a pro at using hair color cream and developer in no time.
What is hair color cream and how does it work?
Hair color cream is a type of hair dye that comes in a creamy consistency and is mixed with a developer to achieve the desired hair color. The cream contains color pigments, moisturizers, and other ingredients that help to nourish and protect the hair during the coloring process. When mixed with the developer, the cream penetrates the hair shaft, depositing color and achieving the desired shade.
The developer is a crucial component in the hair coloring process, as it helps to open up the hair cuticle and allow the color to penetrate. The developer contains hydrogen peroxide, which helps to break down the pigment molecules and deposit them into the hair shaft. The combination of the hair color cream and developer creates a chemical reaction that produces the desired hair color.
What is the difference between 10 volume and 20 volume developer?
The main difference between 10 volume and 20 volume developer is the amount of hydrogen peroxide they contain. 10 volume developer contains 3% hydrogen peroxide, while 20 volume developer contains 6% hydrogen peroxide. The higher the volume of the developer, the more lift it will provide, but it also increases the risk of damage to the hair.
When choosing between 10 volume and 20 volume developer, it’s essential to consider the desired outcome and the condition of the hair. If you’re looking for a subtle, natural-looking color, 10 volume developer may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more dramatic color change or want to achieve a lighter shade, 20 volume developer may be necessary.
How do I choose the right hair color cream and developer for my hair type?
Choosing the right hair color cream and developer for your hair type is crucial to achieving the desired results and minimizing damage. If you have dry or damaged hair, look for a hair color cream that is moisturizing and nourishing. If you have oily hair, look for a cream that is lightweight and oil-free.
When selecting a developer, consider the porosity and elasticity of your hair. If you have porous hair, you may need a lower volume developer to avoid over-processing. If you have elastic hair, you may be able to use a higher volume developer to achieve the desired lift.
Can I use hair color cream and developer on previously colored hair?
Yes, you can use hair color cream and developer on previously colored hair, but it’s essential to take some precautions. If you’re looking to touch up your roots or make subtle changes to your existing color, you can use a hair color cream and developer. However, if you’re looking to make drastic changes to your color, it’s best to consult a professional stylist.
When using hair color cream and developer on previously colored hair, make sure to perform a strand test to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions. It’s also essential to follow the instructions carefully and avoid overlapping the color, as this can cause damage and uneven color distribution.
How long do I need to leave the hair color cream and developer on my hair?
The processing time for hair color cream and developer varies depending on the desired results and the condition of the hair. Generally, the processing time can range from 20 to 45 minutes. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test to determine the optimal processing time for your hair.
When leaving the hair color cream and developer on your hair, make sure to keep an eye on the processing time and check the color regularly to avoid over-processing. Over-processing can cause damage, dryness, and uneven color distribution.
Can I mix hair color cream and developer with other hair products?
It’s generally not recommended to mix hair color cream and developer with other hair products, as this can affect the desired results and cause damage to the hair. However, some products, such as toners or glosses, can be mixed with hair color cream and developer to enhance the color and add shine.
When mixing hair color cream and developer with other products, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test to ensure the desired results. It’s also essential to choose products that are compatible with each other and won’t cause any adverse reactions.
How do I care for my hair after using hair color cream and developer?
After using hair color cream and developer, it’s essential to care for your hair properly to maintain the color and health of your hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using hot water, as this can cause the color to fade.
To maintain the color and moisture of your hair, use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner, and consider using a hair mask once a week. Avoid using heat styling tools, and when you do, use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage and dryness.