How to use 30 volume developer with permanent color at home – Complete guide

How to use 30 volume developer with permanent color at home

Great, you have decided to color your hair at home. But have confusion about the developer. There are many developers coming with the number, and you wonder what the number means. Don’t worry; I’ll tell you. The number mentioned on the bottle it tell the strength of the developer, meaning lower to high strength.

5 or 10 volume developers are low-strength developers, whereas as the number increases, they indicate that the developer is that much stronger. A 30 volume developer is considered a strong developer.

In this guide, we will talk about 30 volume developer: “How to use 30 volume developer with permanent color” and how to use it at home.

What is a developer, and why does it come with different numbers?

Before diving into the usage of a 30 volume developer with permanent color, let’s understand what a developer is.

Here I have shared the easiest way to understand.

• 10 volume developer = It just darkens the color (no lift)
• 20 volume developer = Lift hair color by 1-2 shades (can cover gray hair as well)
• 30 volume developer = Lift hair color by 2-3 shades (for big changes like brown to blonde)
• 40 volume developer = Lift hair color by 3-4 shades (it is very strong and risky if you are using it at home)

Now let’s understand about 30 volume developer

A 30 volume developer contains 9% hydrogen peroxide. It opens up hair cuticles and removes natural color so that new color can sink in. The work of a 30 volume developer is

• It opens the hair cuticle and removes the natural color of hair
• It can lift the natural color of hair by 2-3 levels (lighter)
• It allows permanent color to penetrate deeply

When should I use 30 volume developer?

This is where most people get confused. They believe that stronger is always better. I would like to tell you, this is the biggest mistake people make.

I remember my friend wanted to go from brown hair to blonde. She used 40 volume developer instead of 30 volume. Color indeed changed, but her hair got tangled, frizzy, and prone to breaking.

You need to understand here: don’t underestimate the power of 30 volume developer. It is very strong and right for those who want to go from brown hair to blonde.

You should use it when:

• You want to lighten your hair by 2-3 shades
• You need to cover stubborn grey hair
• You want to apply vibrant and bold shades (brown to blonde)

And if your hair is damaged and weak, you should avoid using it.

Step-by-step guide: How to use 30 volume developer with permanent color

Let’s break it down into simple steps.

Step 1. Keep the material handy

You will need:

• 30 volume developer
• Permanent hair color
• Plastic bowl (don’t use a metal bowl)
• Brush
• Section clips
• Gloves
• Old towel

Step 2. Mix the developer with color

The most important part is the mixing ratio of 30 volume developer with permanent color.

Most brands use a 1:1 ratio. That means if you are using 2 ounces of 30 volume developer, then you should use 2 ounces of permanent color.

Important: Always check the color tube first, as some brands use a 1:2 ratio means 1 ounce of color and 2 ounces of developer.

Mix both the color and developer until it becomes smooth and creamy like yogurt.

Step 3. Do a strand test.

Before starting to apply it, you should do a strand test. Apply it to a small piece of hair from underneath and wait for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, check if you get the desired color and your hair doesn’t feel like rubber or sticky. You are good to go. This step saves you from disasters.

Step 4. Apply to your dry hair

Another key step in how to use 30 volume developer with permanent color is application.

• Apply to dry, unwashed hair (don’t wash your hair before applying it)
• Apply the mixture to your hair like you are buttering toast, smooth and even.
• Divide hair into 4 sections
• if you want an even lift. Start from the roots
• Use a brush for proper coverage

Step 5. Processing time

Timing is very important.

• Leave it on for 30-45 minutes (never go past 45 minutes total)
• Check your hair every 10 minutes

Step 6. Rinse and condition

• Rinse with cold or lukewarm water
• Use a color or sulfate-free shampoo
• Apply a deep conditioner after washing

Tips for best results

Follow these experts’ tips to master how to use a 30 volume developer with permanent color.

• Mixing the correct ratio of developer and color (check the color tube; some brands use 1:2 and some 1:1)

• Apply it to dirty hair – apply color 24 hours after your last wash.

• Must do a patch test before applying

• Use gloves while applying it (protect your skin)

• Always use a plastic bowl (never metal)

• Wash hair with cold or lukewarm water (don’t use hot water)

• Use a deep conditioner after coloring

Common mistakes to avoid

Many beginners fail to properly understand how to use a 30 volume developer with permanent color. Avoid these mistakes:

• Wash your hair before applying it. Apply it 24 hours after washing your hair for the best result.

• Using too much developer with color instead of the given ratio (1:1 or 1:2)

• Don’t use 30 volume developer on already bleached hair (it can melt your hair)

• Mixing two different brands of developer and color. Always use the same brand developer and color.

• Leaving it on too long (don’t go past 45 minutes)

• Applying to damaged or weak hair (hair breakage can be seen)

• Skipping the strand test. Don’t apply it directly to hair without performing a strand test.

Is 30 volume developer safe?

If you have good knowledge of developers and color and follow the correct method of how to use 30 volume developer with permanent color, it is generally safe. But I still recommend that if you are doing it for the first time at home, you should get it done at the salon first. Check how they use it. Watch them closely, then apply it at home.

However:

• It is stronger than 20 volume developer
• If overused, it can dry your hair
• After use, wash it with cold water
• Don’t forget to deep condition after use

Use it wisely, and you will definitely get the best results.

FAQs

1. How to use it on gray hair?

If you have more than 40% gray hair, then 30 volume developer is the right choice for you. Gray hair is usually stubborn. So, you must apply it first to your gray area, then the rest of your hair, as grays get extra time to absorb the color.

2. Can I save the leftover mixture for later?

No. Please don’t do this. Once you mix 30 volume developer with permanent color cream, a chemical reaction starts that dies after an hour. So, no need to save it for later use. You will not get any result, even you will get smelly hair.

• Can I use 30 volume developer with any permanent hair color?

Yes, you need to check a few things.

• Does that color require 20 volume or 30 volume developer
• On the box, it should be written “need developer.”
• When in doubt, call customer care, which is mentioned on the box.

• How long should I leave the 30 volume developer and permanent color on my hair?

You should leave it for max 45 minutes. Don’t go past it and check your hair every 10 minutes. If you get your desire result, rinse immediately. Don’t wait more than 45 minutes.

• Will 30 volume developer damage my hair?

30 volume developer is indeed very strong. Don’t use it too often (once a month is enough) or leave it on too long (more than 45 minutes), as it opens hair cuticles, which removes moisture. Always do deep conditioning.

• When can I use 20 volume developer with permanent color instead of 30 volume developer?

When you want to lift color by 1-2 shades, go with 20 volume developer, and when you need to lift color 3-4 times, choose 30 volume developer then.

• Can I use 30 volume developer just to cover gray hair without going lighter?

Yes, I recommend you if you have thick, resistant gray hair (more than 40% gray) and don’t want to change the shade: go with 20 volume developer, as it can also cover stubborn grays without lifting the color. While using 30 volume on grays can lift a color a little bit. First, I recommend you try with 20 volume; if it does not cover grays properly, then go with 30 volume.

Conclusion

It would be a time and money saver if you learned how to use a 30 volume developer with permanent color at home. If it is your first time, do it under the guidance of an expert. And must follow these steps correctly

• Check the box color for what ratio you should use, either 1:1 or 1:2. If still confused, talk to an expert.
• When applying, don’t go past 45 minutes.
• If you have damaged or weak hair, use 20 volume instead.
• Use a deep conditioner after use.

I believe now you have good knowledge of using 30 volume developer with permanent color. How to use it and the right process.

If you find this guide helpful, please write in the comment section below.