When it comes to coloring or lightening natural hair, one of the most crucial components of the process is the developer. The developer, also known as the oxidizing agent, plays a significant role in determining how much your hair will lighten. Among the various volumes of developers available, 20 volume developer is one of the most commonly used for its relatively gentle yet effective results. However, the question remains: will 20 volume developer lighten natural hair, and if so, to what extent? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of hair lightening, the role of developers, and specifically how 20 volume developer impacts natural hair.
Understanding Hair Structure and Lightening
To grasp how 20 volume developer affects natural hair, it’s essential to understand the basic structure of hair and the process of hair lightening. Hair is composed of a protein called keratin, and its color is determined by the amount and type of melanin present. There are two types of melanin found in hair: eumelanin, which is responsible for brown and black colors, and pheomelanin, which produces red and yellow colors. The lightening process involves breaking down these melanin pigments.
The Role of Developers in Hair Lightening
Developers are essentially hydrogen peroxide solutions that come in different volumes or concentrations. The volume of the developer refers to its strength, with higher volumes indicating a greater concentration of hydrogen peroxide. The developer’s primary role is to open up the hair cuticle, allowing the color or lightener to penetrate and alter the melanin pigment inside the hair shaft. The volume of the developer you use will dictate how much lift (or lightening) you can achieve.
Volumes of Developers and Their Uses
- 10 volume developer is used for depositing color or for minor adjustments, as it produces minimal lift (about 1 level of lift).
- 20 volume developer is a popular choice for general coloring and lightening, offering a moderate level of lift (about 2 levels of lift).
- 30 volume developer and above are used for more significant lightening jobs but are also more damaging to the hair, especially when used improperly.
Will 20 Volume Developer Lighten Natural Hair?
Given its moderate strength, 20 volume developer can indeed lighten natural hair, but the extent of the lightening depends on several factors, including the natural color of the hair, its porosity, and the length of time the developer is left on the hair. For most people, using a 20 volume developer with a hair lightener or high-lift blonde dye can result in lifting the hair color by about 2 levels.
Factors Influencing the Lightening Process
The final result of using a 20 volume developer on natural hair can be influenced by several factors:
– Natural Hair Color: The darker the natural hair color, the less noticeable the lightening effect may be, and the more challenging it can be to achieve significant lightening without severe damage.
– Hair Porosity: Hair with low porosity may resist the penetration of the developer, leading to less effective lightening.
– Processing Time: The longer the developer is left on the hair, the more it will lighten. However, overprocessing can lead to damage.
– Condition of the Hair: Previously damaged or over-processed hair may not lighten as evenly or may suffer further damage from the lightening process.
Minimizing Risks and Achieving Desired Results
To minimize the risks associated with lightening natural hair, such as dryness, breakage, and uneven color, it’s crucial to follow proper application and processing procedures. This includes performing a strand test before applying the developer to the entire head, using a pre-color treatment to open up the hair cuticle, and following up with a moisturizing treatment after the lightening process to hydrate the hair.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 20 volume developer can be an effective tool for lightening natural hair, offering a moderate level of lift that is suitable for many coloring and lightening needs. However, achieving the desired results while minimizing damage requires careful consideration of the individual’s hair type, condition, and natural color, as well as adherence to best practices in application and aftercare. Whether you’re a professional stylist or an individual looking to lighten your hair at home, understanding the role of developers and how they interact with your hair is key to successful and healthy hair lightening. Always prioritize hair health and consider consulting a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process.
What is 20 volume developer and how does it work on natural hair?
The 20 volume developer is a type of hair bleach or color developer used to lighten or color natural hair. It works by penetrating the hair shaft and breaking down the pigment, allowing the hair to lift to a lighter color. The developer contains hydrogen peroxide, which is the active ingredient responsible for breaking down the pigment and lightening the hair. The volume of the developer refers to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, with 20 volume being a relatively strong concentration.
When used on natural hair, the 20 volume developer can be effective in lightening the hair, but it requires careful application and processing to achieve the desired results. The developer must be mixed with a coloring or bleaching agent, such as hair dye or bleach powder, and applied to the hair in a specific manner to avoid over-processing or damaging the hair. It is also important to follow the recommended processing time and to perform a strand test before applying the developer to the entire head to ensure the desired results and to minimize the risk of damage or over-processing.
Will 20 volume developer damage my natural hair?
The 20 volume developer can potentially damage natural hair, especially if used improperly or in excess. The high concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the developer can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage, particularly if it is already damaged or over-processed. Additionally, the developer can cause the hair cuticle to lift, leading to rough, porous hair that is more susceptible to further damage.
To minimize the risk of damage, it is essential to use the 20 volume developer with caution and to follow the recommended guidelines for application and processing. This includes performing a strand test, using a pre-color treatment to protect the hair, and following the recommended processing time. It is also crucial to moisturize and condition the hair thoroughly after using the developer to help restore its natural moisture balance and prevent dryness and breakage. By taking these precautions, you can help minimize the risk of damage and achieve the desired lightening results while maintaining healthy and vibrant natural hair.
Can I use 20 volume developer on virgin natural hair?
Using 20 volume developer on virgin natural hair can be tricky, as it may cause more damage than expected. Virgin hair is hair that has not been previously colored or chemically treated, and it can be more susceptible to damage from the developer. The high concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the 20 volume developer can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage, particularly if it is not used with caution.
However, if you still want to use 20 volume developer on your virgin natural hair, it is essential to take extra precautions to minimize the risk of damage. This includes performing a strand test, using a pre-color treatment to protect the hair, and following the recommended processing time. You should also consider using a lower volume developer, such as 10 volume, to minimize the risk of damage. Additionally, be sure to moisturize and condition your hair thoroughly after using the developer to help restore its natural moisture balance and prevent dryness and breakage.
How long does it take to see results from using 20 volume developer on natural hair?
The time it takes to see results from using 20 volume developer on natural hair can vary depending on several factors, including the starting color of the hair, the desired color, and the processing time. Generally, the processing time for 20 volume developer can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the desired level of lift. During this time, the developer will break down the pigment in the hair, allowing it to lift to a lighter color.
After the processing time is complete, the hair will need to be rinsed and toned to achieve the desired color. The toning process can add an additional 10 to 20 minutes to the overall processing time. Once the hair has been rinsed and toned, the results can be immediately visible, with the hair appearing lighter and more vibrant than before. However, it’s essential to note that the full extent of the color may not be apparent until after the hair has been moisturized and conditioned, as the color can continue to develop and settle over the next few days.
Can I use 20 volume developer to achieve a subtle, natural-looking highlight on my natural hair?
Yes, 20 volume developer can be used to achieve a subtle, natural-looking highlight on natural hair. To achieve this, you can use the developer in a technique called “balayage” or “hair painting,” where the developer is applied in a sweeping motion to the hair, rather than being saturated evenly throughout. This technique allows for a more subtle, natural-looking highlight, as the developer is applied in a way that mimics the natural variation in hair color.
To achieve a subtle highlight, it’s essential to use the 20 volume developer with caution and to follow the recommended guidelines for application and processing. This includes performing a strand test, using a pre-color treatment to protect the hair, and following the recommended processing time. You should also consider using a lower volume developer, such as 10 volume, to minimize the risk of over-processing and to achieve a more subtle highlight. By using the 20 volume developer in a careful and controlled manner, you can achieve a beautiful, natural-looking highlight that enhances your natural hair color.
What are the risks associated with using 20 volume developer on natural hair?
There are several risks associated with using 20 volume developer on natural hair, including damage, over-processing, and unpredictable results. The high concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the developer can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage, particularly if it is not used with caution. Additionally, the developer can cause the hair cuticle to lift, leading to rough, porous hair that is more susceptible to further damage.
To minimize the risks associated with using 20 volume developer, it’s essential to use the developer with caution and to follow the recommended guidelines for application and processing. This includes performing a strand test, using a pre-color treatment to protect the hair, and following the recommended processing time. You should also be aware of the potential for unpredictable results, as the developer can cause the hair to lift unevenly or to become over-processed. By being aware of these risks and taking steps to minimize them, you can help ensure a safe and successful coloring experience.
How can I minimize the damage caused by 20 volume developer on my natural hair?
To minimize the damage caused by 20 volume developer on natural hair, it’s essential to use the developer with caution and to follow the recommended guidelines for application and processing. This includes performing a strand test, using a pre-color treatment to protect the hair, and following the recommended processing time. You should also consider using a lower volume developer, such as 10 volume, to minimize the risk of over-processing and to achieve a more subtle highlight.
After using the 20 volume developer, it’s essential to moisturize and condition the hair thoroughly to help restore its natural moisture balance and prevent dryness and breakage. This can include using a deep conditioning treatment, a hair mask, or a leave-in conditioner to help nourish and hydrate the hair. Additionally, be sure to avoid using heat styling tools or other harsh chemical treatments for a period of time after using the developer, as these can cause further damage and dryness. By taking these precautions, you can help minimize the damage caused by the 20 volume developer and maintain healthy and vibrant natural hair.