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In this post we will go through how to choose hair developers. We have already covered how to do a bleach bath before, and now we will guide you through the most important element of bleaching: hair developer (hydrogen peroxide).
How does hair developer work
Hydrogen peroxide removes colour of your hair, by entering the hair shaft and removing the molecules of colour. The developer will react with melanin, removing its colour via an oxidation process that can damage the hair without the necessary precautions.
Hair colour developers are important because they are able to give you the exact colour you want or saw on the package. Besides, knowing how to use them properly and being able to choose one that matches your needs, will avoid complications such as burning the scalp. You can mix them with bleach power to bleach the hair; after, you generally want to use dye to get a brand new, vibrant new colour.
The best hair developer for you will be one that adapts to your kind of hair. Some hair takes less to develop than others, and that has to do with each hair’s texture. The finer the hair, the fastest it is to colour it.
Things to have in mind
Whichever your hair texture we recommend to always use the lowest of volumes available, even if it might take you longer. Hair developers come in volumes. Remember, you have to mix bleach power and developer for your hair to bleach.
Developers are harder to choose because they come in different volumes. The higher the volume, the faster and stronger they work. At Buzzcut Guide we always recommend going for the lowest volume possible, especially the first few times you do this. If you opt for a lower volume, not only will you be making a safer choice, as you’re able to control much better how much you will bleach. Regardless, never forget to do a strand test first! It’s easy, simple, and will avoid future complications.
Our top 2 hair developers
Ultimately, you’ll spend very little on the developer. But there are so many options out there! How to choose?
We did some research — here are our top picks!
1. Redken Pro-Oxide Cream Developer Cream
You’ll get a HUGE amount of developer in this bottle, likely to last you for at least 16 colorings. This is a salon-sized bottle, perfect for someone who is absolutely sure to keep dyeing their hair. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
2. L’Oreal Oreor 20-Volume Creme Developer
If you’re a bit more experienced with bleaching hair, don’t be afraid of trying this rich and creamy 20 volumes developer. People love this one, lots of reviews point out that it’s just mild enough for DIY dyeing. At 4.5 stars, it’s a very well liked product and one we confidently recommend!
In Conclusion
Both developers come in different volumes, so you can choose the ones that fit your needs the best. We suggest you start by using lower volumes, even though you will have to wait more time to see results. It’s safer and allows you to practice without a bigger risk. Wait until you feel confident enough in your bleaching skills to start using 20+ volumes.
Don’t forget to nourish your hair after bleaching and dying, as it will need a lot of help to recover from the natural damage bleach does. ;)
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