12 Best Hair Developer Choices for Your DIY Hair Color Kit
Once you embrace the world of colored hair, you'll find it impossible to resist its allure. With a plethora of coloring options at your disposal, you can transform your locks to reflect your desired look at any given moment. While many of us rely on professional salon services to achieve that stunning color, we've been yearning to showcase, some prefer the convenience of DIY coloring within the comfort of their own homes. To ensure a successful outcome without compromising the health of the hair or scalp, the key component of any DIY coloring kit is the use of the best hair developer.
Our findings show that this powerhouse product works wonders by swiftly activating the coloring molecules within your chosen dye, ensuring their effective penetration into your hair shaft for truly outstanding results. We have meticulously scoured the market and carefully selected the finest hair developers available, enabling you to make an effortless choice that will undoubtedly yield exceptional results. Take the plunge and choose one of these remarkable hair developers to effortlessly transform your mane.
Our top picks
What is a Hair Developer?
A hair developer is an activator that consists of a powerful ingredient, hydrogen peroxide, that acts as an oxidizing agent. Commonly used during hair coloring and lightening processes, it helps open up the protective barriers of your locks, i.e., your hair cuticles, aiding in the activation of your hair color. By breaking down the natural pigment of your locks, a hair developer allows a bold new hue or hair-lightening agent to penetrate deeply and change your hair color with ease.
Without a hair developer, you might find your quest for the perfect shade an uphill battle. But with this potent activator in your arsenal, you can skip those lackluster outcomes and the ordeal of multiple applications to easily achieve the look you desire.
What Level of Developer Is Suitable for Use With Bleach?
The level of developer you should opt for with bleach depends on the level of lightened pigment you wish to achieve as well as your base color. Developers for hair are available in ranges from 10 to 40, from which you can make your choice.
10 Volume Developer(3%)
Suitable for achieving a minimal lift or slight level of lightening, this lowest volume developer is best suited for those who already have light hair color. It can help you have slight toning or subtle highlights.
20 Volume Developer(6%)
Most commonly used for standard lightening processes, this developer moderately lifts your hair and lightens your base hair color by 1-2 levels.
30 Volume Developer(9%)
This volume is slightly stronger and is used when you want to lighten your natural hair color by 2-3 levels. This volume can be damaging to the health of your locks, so it should be opted for with extreme caution. Those who’ve delicate locks or have previously treated their hair with chemicals should try not to opt for it.
40 Volume Developer(12%)
This is the highest developer for hair with volume 40 that can provide you with a dramatic color change or intense lightening of your locks by 4 or more levels. This is recommended to be used by a hair stylist or professionals only, as experimenting with it without much knowledge can cause severe damage to your locks. Also, a patch test must be done before using the developer to rule out any potential side effects or allergies.
12 Best Hair Developer Choices
Elevate your hair coloring experience with Wella Color Charm Creme developer that seamlessly compliments every permanent hair color. This remarkable formulation is brilliant for concealing your gray or white hair, as well as for lightening your natural hair color. This is undeniably one of the best 20-volume developers that, apart from providing excellent coverage for your aging locks, effortlessly enhances your desired shade. Offering up to 2 levels of lift, this thick consistency developer provides you with added control during the application process whether you're using a bowl, brush, or any other coloring tool. Adding it to your vanity can help you easily achieve that personalized hair color that you’re craving.
Pros
- Versatile
- Ensures vibrant color results
- Deeply nourishes your locks
- Conditions your mane
- Long-lasting results
- Won’t be too strong on fragile hair
Cons
- Results may vary
2
Best Skin-friendly Choice
Schwarzkopf Blondme Premium Developer
The Schwarzkopf premium developer strives to deliver excellence with its unique formula that provides exceptional results. The developers offer a significant lift up to 9 levels without damaging the health of your tresses in any manner. It works wonderfully in deep toning, pastel toning, and neutralizing brassy tones. This developer for blonde hair is infused with a bond protection system that works efficiently to stabilize the structure of your locks and diminish hair breakage. The oil-based product offers long-lasting results while ensuring the restoration of the health of your hair.
Pros
- Effortless to apply
- Top-notch quality
- Extremely effective
- Does not irritate the skin
- Minimizes hair breakage
Cons
- Works well with only limited color products
3
Best for Effortless Application
L'Oreal Paris, Oreor 20 Volume Creme Developer
For a mess-free DIY uniform color application, this solution from L’Oreal Paris works like a pro. Our analysis of this product revealed that it has a thick texture formula that helps provide optimal results during all your coloring and hair-lightening processes. The 20-volume developer creates a flawless finish while providing your locks with the desired lift and also helping you achieve the lighter shade that you’re aiming for. Easy to apply, this developer minimizes all sorts of discomforts by creating a seamless experience for you, irrespective of whether you’re a professional or someone who’s just ventured into the world of hair coloring.
Pros
- Precise application
- A rich and creamy mixture
- Ensures consistency
- Complements multiple hair colors
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Does not add any bounce
4
Clairol Professional Crème 20 volume Hair Developer
Make your hair color look authentic with the help of this high-quality developer from Clairol. Widely regarded as one of the most vital hair developers, this product is formulated with SOY4PLEX and works to activate the 4 signs of healthy and nourished hair, which are deep conditioning, multi-dimensional shades, a reflective glossy shine, and long-lasting brilliant results. Whatever your preference of application, the bowl method, brush application, or color bottle, this developer easily adapts to it all. Rely on this magical formula to help you give your mane that dramatic transformation that you’ve been yearning for without any assistance from salon experts.
Pros
- Enriched with deep conditioning properties
- Provides your locks with a lustrous touch
- Adds dimension to your mane
- Convenient to use
- Super-creamy and rich formula
Cons
- Doesn't work well on thick hair
5
Best Cost-friendly Choice
Salon Care 20 Volume Creme Developer
The Salon Care 20 volume developer is a popular choice amongst haircare experts as well as enthusiasts. The versatile product has been formulated to be easily used with a wide range of hair colors, dyes, toners, lighteners, etc. Whether you plan on lightening your base color by 1-2 shades or wish to conceal your gray locks, this formula does it all. The users have found this developer convenient in minimizing the damage caused to your locks and also highly beneficial in deeply nourishing each strand of your hair. The developer provides optimal results at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Provides professional quality results
- Ensures a deep and even penetration
- Easy application
- Long-lasting
- Helps achieve true-to-tone colors
Cons
- Quantity seems a bit less
6
Best Scalp-friendly Option
Ion Sensitive Scalp 20 Volume Creme Developer
This creamy texture developer is from one of the best hair developer brands, Ion, and is an ideal choice for those who want to achieve lightening by up to 2 levels. It is effortless to apply on your locks and mixes well with any hair color or bleach of your preference. The hair developer is infused with the goodness of wheat germ protein, and ionic buffers, both of which work towards uplifting the health of your hair. The formulation is enriched with a refreshing fragrance, which makes it even more preferable in comparison with the other alternatives.
Pros
- Protects sensitive scalp
- Deeply condition your hair
- Non-drying
- Ample quantity
- Cost-friendly
Cons
- Uneven consistency, too watery
7
Best Drip resistant Formula
Superstar 20V Creme Developer
With a thick consistency, this 20-volume hair developer from Superstar provides your hair with the desired lightening and lift with ease. The premium-quality product is designed with a gel-like consistency that ensures quick and precise application of your hair color. The peroxide formulation is made in the United States and meets all the standard quality checks, making it a safe choice for all air types. You can easily swap your liquid peroxide with this effective developer that can help you bleach your locks or lift them as per your preference.
Pros
- Hassle-free application
- Professional quality
- Stabilized formulation
- Suits all hair types
- Does not drip
Cons
- Not great for root touch-ups
8
Marianna - Super Star Creme Developer 40 Volume
Experiment with all trendy hair colors and give your hair that oh-so-natural look with this Marianna Super Star 40 volume developer. The thick consistency of the formula ensures that it doesn’t drip, providing you with more control and accuracy during the application process. Our investigation demonstrated that this developer could be used as a substitute for liquid peroxide. The hair developer has a gel consistency and is an effective choice that can help you effectively bleach your locks or lift them to the level you want. The high-volume formulation is recommended for use by professionals or hairstylists who’ve prior experience.
Pros
- Affordable
- Seamless application
- Stays in place
- Suits all hair colors, including bold hues
- Lightens your hair significantly
Cons
- Some might find it irritating to the scalp
9
Most Hydrating
Pravana Creme Developer 20 Volume
Specially formulated for use with ChromaSIlk hair color, this 20-volume developer from Pravana provides exceptional hair coloring and lightener results. This is a good developer for hair that is available in a handy 90 ml tube that can be carried around with ease. The formulation provides your locks with intense hydration while lightening and enhancing the vibrancy of your freshly dyed locks. This developer is completely free from harsh chemicals such as paraben and sulfates. Adding this developer to your hair care vanity can help you easily achieve stunning, soft, and smooth locks with the hair color of your choice.
Pros
- Infused with all-natural ingredients
- Intensely moisturizes your mane
- Adds volume to your hair
- Enhances the color of your dye
- Enough quantity for multiple applications
Cons
- Doesn’t work well for concealing gray hair
10
Most Refreshing Scent
Ion Sensitive Scalp 30 Volume Creme Developer
Whether you’re looking for something that can help you cover those infuriating gray locks or are in search of a formula that can help you lighten your hair up to 3 shades, this developer from Ion can help you with it all. The amazing developer brand takes immense care of your scalp along with your hair coloring needs and protects against irritation of the scalp as well. The presence of wheat germ protein in the developer, along with some other beneficial ingredients, ensures enhanced nourishment of your locks.
Pros
- Pleasing scent
- Scalp-friendly
- Non-drying formula
- Seamless to apply
- Suits all skin types
Cons
- Slightly expensive
11
Best for Color-retention
Satin Hair Color developer, 10 Volume
The Satin hair color developer An apt choice for achieving salon-style hair color without stepping out of your home. The exquisite formulation provides your locks with maximum coverage of your hair color product with minimal damage. The product creates a barrier that protects your hair's fiber color and helps it last longer. When we trailed this product, we found that it works best with Satin hair color but can be easily used with hair colors crafted by other brands as well. The micro molecules of the formula penetrate deep into your shaft and allow your hair color to work much more effectively with enhanced results.
Pros
- Provides a glossy look
- Deeply moisturizes your locks
- Ensures color retention
- Non-dripping
- Rich, smooth texture
Cons
- Some might find the scent overpowering
12
Best Maximum-coverage Choice
Global Keratin GK HAIR Professional Hair Creme 20 Volume Developer
The high-quality solution from GK provides your mane with strength for conventional bleaching or hair toning processes. The professional developer creams work well to ensure your hair color remains vibrant and long-lasting. With its non-drip consistency, the formula offers an exceptional amount of control during the application process, making it an effortless task. This product has been designed to reduce the water level in the developer volume and supports the natural moisture balance of your tresses, providing intense hydration and protection throughout your coloring experience. We have found from using this product that this 20-volume developer imparts intense shine and leaves your hair feeling uber-smooth and silky.
Pros
- Provides ideal viscosity
- Easy to apply
- Top-notch quality
- Maximum coverage
- Ensures a professional-level finish
Cons
- Works well with GK hair colors only
When selecting the best hair developer, one must be aware of the key points that can help achieve the desired results. Check ahead for a complete guide on the most crucial factors.
Crucial Factors to Consider While Buying the Best Hair Developer
Our research indicates that making an effective choice of the best hair developer from the dozens of available options can prove to be an extremely challenging task. Fret not, we’re here to help you make your best pick with minimal effort. Here are a few essential factors that can help you make an easy choice.
- Developer Volume
Hair developers are available in different volumes, ranging from 10 to 40. The level of volume you opt for relates to the amount of lift or color deposit you’re looking to achieve. While 10 is sufficient for a minimum toning or lift, 40 is advisable for maximum lift or an enhanced level of lightening. Our contributor Gwenda Harmon, an expert hair dresser & curly hair specialist, suggests, “You may use a 20-volume developer to address gray hair coverage. It will do the job to cover your gray hair but not that strong that it would damage your hair.”
It’s really important to make your choice of a developer keeping your hair type and its health into consideration. While resilient hair types can handle developer volume 40 with ease, lower volume developer is recommended for fragile or damaged tresses.
- Compatibility with Hair Products
Before finalizing any hair developer, make sure that it’s compatible with your hair dye or lightening product. Go through different options and read the instructions given on each product carefully and then go ahead with your selection of the developer that’s compatible with your choice of hair color. This’ll minimize the risk of chemical reactions.
- Additional Features
There are tons of excellent quality developers that are enriched with other essential properties that might benefit your locks. Look for developers that are infused with an in-built conditioner, oil, or proteins that can contribute well in diminishing damage caused to your locks and significantly boosting their health.
- Brand and Product Reviews
Always try to go with developers made by reputed brands as they tend to be more effective and thoroughly researched in comparison with the other alternatives. Check the consumers' reviews of the developer that you’re interested in buying to check whether it’s fulfilling their expectations and is a safe choice to invest in.
Similar to every other hair product, hair developers are available in a varied price range. Set your budget, and that’ll help you narrow down your research to the feasible options that you can pick with ease. Whether you’re set on buying some high-end developer or a cost-friendly product, you can easily get products in all price ranges.
As important as it is to select the best hair developer, it’s equally essential to apply it correctly to achieve the best possible results.
Step-By-Step Guide on How to Use a Hair Developer
Here’s a detailed application guide as per our expertise to help you apply a hair developer in the best manner to achieve optimized results.
- Start by mixing your hair dye or bleach with your chosen developer in the specific ratio recommended on the packaging in a bowl.
- Then, cleanse your locks thoroughly and let them dry.
- Wear an apron along with disposable gloves before starting the application process.
- Divide your hair into sections using a wide tooth comb. Start applying the mix prepared on each section, starting from the roots and working your way towards the end.
- Make sure to cover each strand of your hair with the mixture. Then, cover your locks with a shower cap.
- Let it stay for 30-45 minutes.
- Rinse your hair with lukewarm water and then follow it with the application of a conditioner.
Investing in the best hair developer is more than just a purchase; it's an investment in your self-confidence and personal style. These above remarkable products, with their luxurious texture and even consistency, deliver exceptional results and greatly assist in the hair coloring and lightening process. Based on our observations, whether you aspire to flaunt the perfect color of the season, effortlessly conceal those stubborn visible greys that emerge in your mane, or customize your base color to match your desires, these above-listed hair developers are your ultimate solution to achieve it all.
Don't hesitate any longer; seize the opportunity to get yourself one of these products and embrace the beauty of stunning hair without draining your wallet at those expensive salon visits.
Contributor: Gwenda Harmon, Expert Hair Dresser & Curly Hair Specialist - Click for blog
FAQ's
Is it better to use a 10 or 20-volume developer?
While volume 10 will just open the cuticles of your layer, volume 20 can also help you lift your locks by 1-2 levels.
Is a 10 or 20-volume developer better for dark hair?
For those with dark hair who wish to have even darker locks go for volume 10. But if you’re looking towards lightening your hair by 1-2 shades, then opt for Vol 20.
What developer is best for brown hair?
Volume 10 developer is a gentle formulation that can work well to achieve brown hair color.
Is a hair developer required for black hair?
Yes, black hair requires a 30-volume developer to effortlessly lighten the dark-shade locks. But overusing this developer can have adverse effects on your black locks.
Can I dilute hair developer with conditioner?
Yes, you can easily dilute your developer with any conditioner of your choice. But doing so could decrease the strength of your developer.
How long is it advisable to leave a volume 30 hair developer in your locks?
You should let a 30-volume developer in your locks for around 15-30 minutes.
What is the difference between a bright white developer and a regular developer?
While regular developers offer a standard help in the coloring or lightening process, bright white developers are more intense formulas that can significantly lift your locks or lighten them considerably. Regular developers are available in the vol 10 to 40 range, whereas bright white developers are available only in higher ranges of 30 or above.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
With a keen eye for detail, Alvira carefully selects the best in haircare to help you find the most efficient products and tools for your tresses. Here she has selected the best hair developers to help you achieve the perfect tint and pigment in your hair. While she has tried and tested a few of the products herself, she also roped in her friends and colleagues to experiment with the developers to turn our heads into crowns of color.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More
