Is 40 volume developer too strong?

Author: Erick Lueilwitz  |  Last update: Saturday, April 19, 2025

Is 40 volume developer safe for sensitive or fine hair? Generally, no. If your hair is sensitive, fine, or damaged, using 40-volume developer can be too harsh and may cause significant damage. It's better to opt for a 20 or 30-volume developer in these cases.

Is it bad to use a 40 volume developer?

  • Strength: A 40 volume developer is very strong and can cause significant damage to your hair and scalp.
  • Scalp Sensitivity: Applying bleach directly to the scalp can lead to irritation, burns, or chemical damage, especially with a high-volume developer.
  • Professional Guidance: It's best

Is 40 volume too harsh?

40 Volume (12%) Developer

It is recommended for use with a lightening cream or powder for those who want to achieve blonde results. It is important to note, however, that this developer strength is harsh on the hair and can cause hair burns if not used properly.

Is 30 or 40 volume developer stronger?

40 volume developer is the strongest level of developer, and we do not recommend it for at home use. Even with dark hair, it is easier and safer to do several rounds of lightning with a lower volume developer rather than try to lift your hair an extreme amount in one go with a higher volume developer.

What is 40 volume developer used for?

40 Volume Developer

This developer is used when you need a dramatic color change, such as going from dark brown or black to blonde. However, because it's so strong, it's usually only recommended for professionals, as it can easily damage your hair if not used carefully.

hair color developer explained- 10, 20, 30 & 40 volume | 2024

Will 40 developer lighten hair without bleach?

Without bleach, the 40 volume developer will only deposit color and may lighten the hair slightly, but not enough to achieve the desired blonde or light color.

Can I use 40 volume developer instead of 20?

40 Vol developer tend to swell up the hair cuticle so much that it risks blowing it apart permanently. Instead of bumping up the developer strength to 40 Vol, we would suggest you use a quality bleach with 20 or 30 Vol. Then after that apply your color with 20 Vol.

How long should I leave 40% developer in my hair?

40-volume developer should not be left on your hair for more than 30 minutes. Generally, a processing time of 10–20 minutes is enough to achieve a lift without causing excessive damage. Check the hair frequently to monitor the color lift, and rinse thoroughly when the desired shade is achieved.

What developer is best for dark hair?

10 volume developers contain 3% hydrogen peroxide. These developers are also called no lift developers because they only provide moderate lift to your cuticles, i.e., lift by 1 level. This developer is perfect for when you are going to color your hair a darker color than the natural shade.

What happens if I use 20 developer instead of 10?

Using a 20-volume developer instead of a 10-volume developer will result in a greater lift and a lighter color outcome. The higher hydrogen peroxide content helps open the hair cuticle more, allowing the color to penetrate deeper and lighten your natural shade.

What volume level is too high?

Sounds at or below 70 A-weighted decibels (dBA) are generally safe. Long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. Here are some decibel ratings for common sounds: Normal conversation: 60-70 dBA.

How many sessions to go from dark brown to blonde?

From a strand test, you should also get a better sense of how many sessions you'll need to make the full transition. For example, going from dark brown to light blonde hair may require three to four sessions.

Is developer damaging to hair?

Higher volume developers can be more damaging to the hair, so it's important to follow the instructions provided with the hair dye or bleach product. Additionally, using a quality conditioner or treatment such as OLAPLEX after the colouring process can help maintain the health and integrity of the hair.

What developer is best for gray hair?

The standard developer for gray coverage is 20 Volume; however, 30 Volume and 40 Volume can also be used if the percentage of gray is low and additional lift is needed to achieve the desired result.

How long should I leave 30% developer in my hair?

One of the most common questions is: How long to leave 30 volume developer on hair? In general, it's recommended to leave it on for 15–30 minutes, depending on how much lift you're looking for. However, going over this time can cause significant damage.

Does higher developer make hair darker?

Developer alone won't make your hair darker or lighter. Its main purpose is to activate the color molecules in the hair dye and help them penetrate the hair shaft for a more permanent result. So if you want a lighter or darker shade, it's all about the hair dye you choose.

What level developer is in Box dye?

The developer found in box color ranges between 20 and 40 volume because that is what is needed to cover gray or to change a very dark shade. Frequently coating the hair shaft with a high volume developer will cause damage, particularly if the starting condition is weakened or fragile.

What is the difference between 30 and 40 developer?

40% developer is a very strong lift or intensity for the color , 30% developer is a medium lift for 5 shades and is strong , 20% developer is standard lift and what most people use to dye their hair . 10% developer is lowest strength developer , you use that to tone or just add a slight color difference .

Should I rinse bleach out of hair with cold or hot water?

Step 7: Wash it

Use lukewarm water, too hot or cold of water can shock your hair in its already fragile state. Make sure to completely rinse out the bleach and gently wash your hair to get out all the product.

Will 40 developer lighten hair?

If you're looking to lighten your hair by three or more levels, 40 volume developer is the option for you. It's also a good choice if you have very resistant hair that's difficult to color. People choose 40 volume because it's strong enough to lighten even the darkest hair.

Is it safe to use 40 volume developer on scalp?

The stronger the developer, the more the hair cuticle opens and with a super high level developer, it's way easier to do serious irreversible damage to your hair. Never use 40 volume on your scalp.

How many levels can you lift hair in one session?

“It all depends on how light you want to go and what was previously done to the hair,” says Pearl. “On virgin hair, you can most likely lift up to seven levels [in one session]. This can become harder on a darker level hair.”

What happens if you mix conditioner with developer?

However, Halim warns that combining conditioner with permanent or developer-based dyes can disrupt the chemical reaction and oxidation process needed for permanent color, which may lead to uneven or inconsistent color.

How to make 40 developer into 20?

Yes. Half 40 developer with half water will theoretically make 20 developer. I think it would work with conditioner too.

Previous article
Can you tone brassy hair with purple shampoo?
Next article
What should a clay mask feel like?