Choosing the wrong developer is one of the most common mistakes in hair colouring — and it can mean the difference between vibrant, healthy colour and damaged, uneven results. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is a Colour Developer? A developer (also called oxidant or peroxide) activates your hair colour and opens the hair cuticle to allow pigment to deposit. It comes in different strengths, measured in volumes: 10, 20, 30, and 40.
10 Vol — For Gentle Deposit & Toning Best for: depositing colour without lift, toning, or refreshing faded colour on already-lightened hair. Ideal for fine or fragile hair.
20 Vol — The Most Versatile Best for: 1–2 levels of lift and full grey coverage. The go-to for most standard colour applications. Works well for all hair types.
30 Vol — For More Lift Best for: 2–3 levels of lift on normal to coarse hair. Great for highlights or when you need a brighter result without bleach.
40 Vol — Maximum Lift Best for: 3–4 levels of lift on resistant or coarse hair. Use with caution — always do a strand test first and avoid on fine or damaged hair.
Quick Guide by Hair Type:
- Fine/damaged hair → 10 or 20 Vol
- Normal hair → 20 or 30 Vol
- Coarse/resistant hair → 30 or 40 Vol
- Grey coverage → 20 Vol minimum
Pro Tip: Always pair your developer with a professional-grade colour for the best results. At Beauty Max Pro, all our developers are formulated to work seamlessly with our colour range.