Understanding Hair Color

Understanding Hair Color

Understanding hair color begins with grasping two fundamental concepts: levels and tones.

Levels refer to the lightness or darkness of a hair color on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the darkest (black) and 10 being the lightest (pale blonde). Each level represents a shade that contributes to the overall depth of the hair, enabling colorists to achieve the desired brightness or darkness in a client’s hair.

Tones, on the other hand, describe the underlying hues present within a level. While levels indicate how light or dark the hair is, tones provide the nuance and dimension. Common tones include ashy, golden, copper, and neutral, each capable of transforming the appearance of the same level of hair color. For instance, a level 7 can be an ashy blonde, a golden blonde, or a warm caramel, simply depending on the tone applied.

In essence, when a colorist evaluates hair, they consider both the level and tone to create individualized and sophisticated results. This foundational knowledge not only enhances a colorist's skill set but also empowers clients to better communicate their hair color aspirations.

 

What are developers and what do they do?

Hair color developers, also known as oxidizing agents, play a crucial role in the hair dyeing process. They are typically classified by their volume, which indicates the strength of the developer and the level of lift they provide. Developers are mixed with hair color or lightener to activate the dye and facilitate the penetration of color into the hair cuticle.

Types of Hair Color Developers

  1. 10 Volume (3%): This developer is used primarily for deposit-only hair color, meaning it adds color without lifting the natural hair color. It's ideal for subtle changes, such as enhancing the existing shade or covering gray hair.

  2. 20 Volume (6%): This is the most commonly used developer, offering a mild lift of one or two levels. It works well for standard color applications and is effective for covering gray hair while also providing some lift.

  3. 30 Volume (9%): This developer provides a stronger lift of two to three levels. It's commonly used for permanent hair colors and lighter shades but should be applied with caution, as it can damage the hair when used improperly.

  4. 40 Volume (12%): This developer is designed for maximum lift, up to four levels or more. It's typically used for high-lift blondes and professional lighteners. Due to its potency, it should be used by experienced professionals to avoid excessive damage to the hair.

Choosing the Right Developer

When selecting a hair color developer, consider the following factors:

  • Desired Lift: Determine how many levels you wish to lift your hair's natural color. For minimal changes, a 10 or 20 volume developer is adequate, while dramatic lightening may require a 30 or 40 volume option.

  • Hair Condition: Assess the health of your hair before choosing a developer. If your hair is damaged or overly porous, a lower volume developer will help minimize further damage.

  • Color Products: Always pair the developer with the specific hair color brand and formulation you plan to use, as different brands may have specific recommendations based on their product chemistry.

  • End Result: Consider what shade you want to achieve. Warmer shades often require lower volume, while cooler shades and extreme lifts use higher volumes.

By understanding the role and types of hair color developers, you can make informed decisions that help achieve your desired results, while maintaining the integrity of your hair. For the best outcomes, seeking advice from a professional colorist at Sapphira Beauty Company is advisable.

 

How do I take care of my hair color?

To maintain your hair color and ensure its longevity, consider the following essential care tips:

1. Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner

Opt for sulfate-free products specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These formulations help retain moisture and prevent color from fading.

2. Wash Your Hair Less Frequently

Limiting shampooing to 2-3 times a week can prevent stripping your hair of natural oils and color. On non-wash days, use a dry shampoo to absorb oil and maintain freshness.

3. Rinse with Cool Water

After washing, rinse your hair with cool water. This helps seal the cuticle, locking in color and shine while reducing frizz.

4. Avoid Excessive Heat

Minimize the use of heat styling tools. When you do style, apply a heat protectant product to shield your hair from damage.

5. Protect from Sun Exposure

Prolonged sun exposure can fade your color. Wear a hat or use UV protection sprays designed for hair when spending time outdoors.

6. Deep Condition Regularly

Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair hydrated and maintain its vibrancy.

7. Limit Chemical Treatments

Avoid overlapping chemical services, such as perming or relaxing, as these can compromise the integrity and color of your hair.

8. Regular Touch-ups

To keep your color looking fresh, schedule touch-ups with your stylist or (yourself if you are using e-color) based on your hair growth and color fading.

By following these guidelines, you can preserve the vibrancy of your hair color while keeping it healthy and radiant.

At Sapphira Beauty Company, we pride ourselves on our team of seasoned hairstylists and colorists, each with over 30 years of expertise in the beauty industry. Our professionals are not just skilled artisans; many also serve as educators, continuously honing their craft while working behind the chair every day. This dedication allows us to bring you custom hair color formulations tailored specifically to your needs.

When you choose Sapphira, you can trust that your color choices will reflect the same high standards and professional quality that we uphold in our salons. We utilize premium color lines that ensure vibrant, lasting results, so you receive a salon-quality experience with every service. Embrace the luxurious hues and precision techniques that our knowledgeable team is committed to providing, ensuring your hair not only looks beautiful but also maintains its health and integrity.

 

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