When we talk about hair coloring, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the terms and products used in the process. An important ingredient you've probably heard of is oxidant, but what exactly is it and what role does it play in the hair coloring process? Let's take a closer look at this magical substance and its importance in achieving beautifully colored hair.
What is an oxidant?
Oxidant, also known as developer or volume, is a chemical solution used in the hair coloring process to activate the color pigments in the hair color product. Its main function is to open the cuticle of the hair so that the color pigments can penetrate the hair and change its color. Without oxidant, the hair color would not be able to develop and give the desired result.
How does oxidant work in hair coloring?
When you mix the hair color with oxidant, a chemical reaction is created that releases oxygen, which in turn allows the color pigments to penetrate deep into the hair shaft. The higher concentration of oxidant you use, the more intense the hair coloring result. The oxidant is also responsible for stabilizing the coloring process and ensuring that it develops evenly throughout the hair.
Different volumes of oxidant:
The oxidant is present in different volumes, which affects the strength and intensity of the resulting hair color. The most common volumes are 10 volume (3%), 20 volume (6%), 30 volume (9%) and 40 volume (12%). The higher the volume of oxidant, the brighter and more intense the resulting color. It is important to choose the right volume of oxidant based on your hair's current color and the desired color to avoid damage and unwanted results.
How to use oxidant correctly:
To achieve the best results, it is important to use the oxidant correctly. Always mix the hair color with the correct volume of oxidant according to the manufacturer's recommendations and apply it evenly over the hair with a brush or comb. Then leave it on for the specified time before rinsing it off thoroughly with warm water.
Conclusion:
Oxidant is a crucial part of the hair coloring process that allows the color pigments to penetrate the hair and change its color. By understanding how oxidant works and how to use it correctly, you can achieve beautifully colored hair with professional results at home. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and to do an allergy test before using new hair color products to avoid any unpleasant reactions.