As the world of hair coloring continues to evolve, many individuals are turning to at-home solutions to achieve salon-quality results without the hefty price tag. One popular method is using a toner with 20 volume developer to enhance, correct, or maintain their hair color. But can you use a toner with 20 vol, and what are the benefits and risks associated with this process? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hair toning, exploring the ins and outs of using a toner with 20 volume developer.
Understanding Hair Toning and Volume Developers
Before we dive into the specifics of using a toner with 20 vol, it’s essential to understand the basics of hair toning and volume developers.
What is Hair Toning?
Hair toning is a chemical process that alters the tone of your hair color without lifting the base color. Toners can be used to achieve a variety of effects, including:
- Neutralizing unwanted warm or cool tones
- Enhancing natural color
- Creating a specific shade or hue
- Maintaining color-treated hair
Toners can be applied to the entire head or used as a touch-up treatment to target specific areas.
What are Volume Developers?
Volume developers, also known as oxidizing agents, are used to activate the toner and penetrate the hair shaft. The volume of the developer refers to its strength, with higher volumes containing more hydrogen peroxide. The most common volumes used in hair coloring and toning are:
- 10 volume (3% hydrogen peroxide)
- 20 volume (6% hydrogen peroxide)
- 30 volume (9% hydrogen peroxide)
- 40 volume (12% hydrogen peroxide)
The volume developer you choose will depend on the desired outcome, your hair type, and the porosity of your hair.
Using a Toner with 20 Vol: Benefits and Risks
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore the benefits and risks associated with using a toner with 20 volume developer.
Benefits of Using a Toner with 20 Vol
Using a toner with 20 vol can offer several benefits, including:
- Increased lift: 20 volume developer can lift the hair up to 2 levels, making it ideal for those looking to achieve a lighter shade or correct brassy tones.
- Improved color deposit: The higher volume developer can help to deposit more color onto the hair shaft, resulting in a more vibrant and longer-lasting tone.
- Reduced processing time: 20 volume developer can process faster than lower volumes, making it a great option for those short on time.
Risks of Using a Toner with 20 Vol
While using a toner with 20 vol can be beneficial, there are also some risks to consider:
- Over-processing: Using a higher volume developer can increase the risk of over-processing, particularly if you have damaged or porous hair.
- Dryness and damage: The higher volume developer can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and damage if not properly cared for.
- Unpredictable results: Using a toner with 20 vol can be unpredictable, especially if you’re new to hair toning. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to your entire head.
How to Use a Toner with 20 Vol: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve decided to use a toner with 20 vol, follow these steps to achieve salon-quality results at home:
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before applying the toner, make sure your hair is in good condition. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup, and towel-dry your hair until it’s damp.
Step 2: Mix the Toner and Developer
In a well-ventilated area, mix the toner with 20 volume developer in a plastic bowl. Be sure to follow the instructions provided with the toner and developer, as the ratio of toner to developer may vary.
Step 3: Apply the Toner
Apply the toner mixture to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Be sure to saturate your hair evenly, but avoid overlapping or applying too much toner to one area.
Step 4: Process the Toner
Processing time will vary depending on the toner and your hair type. As a general rule, process the toner for 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the processing time, as over-processing can lead to dryness and damage.
Step 5: Rinse and Condition
After processing the toner, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in the color and hydrate your hair.
Tips and Tricks for Using a Toner with 20 Vol
To get the most out of using a toner with 20 vol, follow these tips and tricks:
- Always perform a strand test: Before applying the toner to your entire head, perform a strand test to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions.
- Use a conditioning treatment: After toning your hair, use a deep conditioning treatment to help hydrate and nourish your hair.
- Avoid using heat styling tools: For the first few days after toning, avoid using heat styling tools to prevent damage and fading.
- Follow up with a color-depositing shampoo and conditioner: To maintain the color and tone of your hair, use a color-depositing shampoo and conditioner.
Conclusion
Using a toner with 20 vol can be a great way to achieve salon-quality results at home, but it’s essential to understand the benefits and risks associated with this process. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking the necessary precautions, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting tone that enhances your natural color. Remember to always perform a strand test, use a conditioning treatment, and follow up with a color-depositing shampoo and conditioner to maintain the health and color of your hair.
What is 20 volume developer and how does it work?
20 volume developer is a type of hair developer that contains 6% hydrogen peroxide. It is commonly used in hair coloring and bleaching processes to achieve a specific shade or to lighten the hair. The developer works by breaking down the pigment in the hair shaft, allowing the color to penetrate and deposit onto the hair. The volume of the developer refers to the amount of hydrogen peroxide it contains, with higher volumes resulting in greater lift and lighter shades.
When using 20 volume developer, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying it to the entire head. This will help you determine the desired results and ensure that the developer doesn’t cause any damage to your hair. It’s also crucial to choose the right toner to use with 20 volume developer, as some toners may not be compatible with this volume of developer.
Can I use a toner with 20 volume developer?
Yes, you can use a toner with 20 volume developer, but it’s crucial to choose the right toner for your hair type and desired results. Some toners are specifically designed to work with 20 volume developer, while others may require a lower or higher volume of developer. Using the wrong toner can result in undesirable results, such as uneven color or damage to the hair.
When selecting a toner to use with 20 volume developer, look for products that are specifically labeled as “20 volume compatible” or “for use with 20 volume developer.” You can also consult with a professional hairstylist or colorist for recommendations on the best toner to use with 20 volume developer. They can help you determine the right toner for your hair type and desired results.
What are the benefits of using a toner with 20 volume developer?
Using a toner with 20 volume developer can help achieve salon-quality results at home. Toners can help to neutralize unwanted tones, add shine and dimension to the hair, and enhance the overall color. When used with 20 volume developer, toners can also help to achieve a more precise and consistent color result.
Another benefit of using a toner with 20 volume developer is that it can help to reduce the appearance of brassy tones and warm undertones. This is especially beneficial for individuals with blonde or light brown hair, as it can help to achieve a more natural and desirable color. By using a toner with 20 volume developer, you can achieve professional-looking results without the need for a salon visit.
How do I choose the right toner to use with 20 volume developer?
Choosing the right toner to use with 20 volume developer depends on your hair type, desired results, and the type of color you are trying to achieve. If you’re looking to neutralize unwanted tones, you may want to choose a toner that is specifically designed for this purpose. If you’re looking to add shine and dimension to your hair, you may want to choose a toner that contains moisturizing ingredients.
It’s also essential to consider the porosity and condition of your hair when choosing a toner. If you have damaged or porous hair, you may want to choose a toner that is gentle and nourishing. If you have virgin hair, you may want to choose a toner that is more intense and vibrant. By considering these factors, you can choose the right toner to use with 20 volume developer and achieve the desired results.
Can I use a toner with 20 volume developer on virgin hair?
Yes, you can use a toner with 20 volume developer on virgin hair, but it’s essential to exercise caution and follow the instructions carefully. Virgin hair can be more prone to damage and over-processing, so it’s crucial to choose a toner that is gentle and nourishing. You may also want to consider performing a strand test before applying the toner to the entire head.
When using a toner with 20 volume developer on virgin hair, it’s also essential to consider the porosity of the hair. If the hair is highly porous, it may be more prone to absorbing too much color, resulting in uneven or over-processed hair. By choosing the right toner and following the instructions carefully, you can achieve salon-quality results on virgin hair.
How long do I leave the toner on my hair when using 20 volume developer?
The length of time you leave the toner on your hair when using 20 volume developer will depend on the type of toner and the desired results. Some toners may require a longer processing time, while others may require a shorter time. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to the entire head.
As a general rule, you can leave the toner on your hair for 10-20 minutes when using 20 volume developer. However, this time may vary depending on the type of toner and the porosity of your hair. It’s also essential to keep an eye on the processing time and check the hair regularly to avoid over-processing or damage.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when using a toner with 20 volume developer?
One of the most common mistakes to avoid when using a toner with 20 volume developer is over-processing the hair. This can result in damage, dryness, and breakage. To avoid this, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the toner to the entire head.
Another common mistake is choosing the wrong toner for your hair type and desired results. This can result in uneven color, brassy tones, or damage to the hair. By choosing the right toner and following the instructions carefully, you can avoid these common mistakes and achieve salon-quality results at home.