When coloring black hair, the developer plays a crucial role in achieving the desired results. The developer, also known as activator or oxidizing agent, is a chemical solution that works in conjunction with hair color to lift the natural pigment of the hair, allowing the new color to take hold. For black hair, which is naturally very dark and resistant to color change, using the best developer is essential to ensure even coverage, vibrant color, and minimal damage to the hair.
The strength of the developer is measured in volumes (vol.), which indicates the amount of hydrogen peroxide it contains. Higher volume developers lift more pigment, but they can also be more damaging to the hair. For black hair, it is generally recommended to use a developer in the range of 10-20 vol. A 10 vol. developer is suitable for subtle color changes, while a 20 vol. developer can be used for more dramatic transformations. It is important to consult with a professional hair stylist to determine the appropriate developer strength for your specific hair type and desired results.