Choosing the Right Developer Strength for Platinum Hair: Tips and Tricks

Transitioning from a golden blonde to platinum hair is a significant step in your hair transformation journey. However, choosing the right developer strength can make all the difference in achieving your desired results without causing damage. In this guide, we will explore the best practices and provide expert advice to help you achieve your platinum hair goals.

Understanding Developer Strength

Developer strength refers to the concentration of the chemical solution used in hair coloring to lift and deposit color. A higher developer number means a stronger solution, while a lower number indicates a weaker solution. For those aiming for platinum hair, the choice of developer strength is crucial to achieve the desired result smoothly and safely.

Applying Bleach on Roots vs. Lengths

The first step in transitioning to platinum hair is deciding whether to apply the bleach on the roots or the lengths. If your hair is already a sunny blonde at the roots but has a darker shade at the lengths, you can save time and effort by starting with the roots. This approach can help in achieving a more even and gradual transition throughout your hair.

Using 20 Volume Developer

When preparing your hair for a platinum transformation, it is recommended to use a 20 volume developer on both the roots and the lengths. The 20 volume developer is strong enough to lift the lighter golden blonde tones and lighten the darker roots, yet not so strong that it may cause damage to your hair. Using 30 volume developer can be risky as it may be too harsh, leading to potential damage and sensitivity issues.

Pro Tip: Begin with 20 volume developer and, if the color isn't light enough, you can always reapply later with a 10 volume developer to achieve the desired shade. It's important to be patient and avoid over-processing your hair, as this can lead to dryness and brittleness.

Considerations for Different Hair Tones

If your hair has already reached a pale yellow, a platinum blonde toner should be applied after the bleaching process. This will help to desaturate the color and create a more platinum-like finish. On the other hand, if your hair is a dark yellow, it is advisable to use a 20 volume developer. This will help to lift the yellow tones and prepare the hair for the next steps in your transformation process.

Preparation and Aftercare Tips

While preparing the bleach, it's important to adhere to proper technique to avoid scalp sensitivity and irritation. Apply the bleach gently and avoid scrubbing when shampooing to prevent opening the pores on your scalp, which could cause burning and discomfort.

Pro Tip: Always perform a patch test before applying any hair treatment to ensure that you are not allergic to the products used. Additionally, use a deep conditioner after each treatment to nourish and hydrate your hair, keeping it healthy and shiny.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Transitioning to platinum hair is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution. By using the right developer strength and following the appropriate hair care tips, you can achieve your desired platinum hair look safely and effectively. If you are unsure about the process, consulting a professional hair stylist can provide valuable guidance and ensure a successful transformation.