How to Measure Hair Color and Developer

Hair coloring can be transformative, allowing you to change your look dramatically or simply cover up grays. But to get great results, you need the right ratio of hair dye to developer. Here’s a complete guide on how to accurately measure and mix hair color and developer for stunning results every time.

Why Measure Hair Dye and Developer?

• Hair dye and developer work together to penetrate the hair shaft for permanent, even color. Developer activates the dye.

• Using the wrong ratios can lead to bad results – uneven color, damage, color that washes out quickly, etc.

• Eyeballing or guessing amounts leads to inconsistencies. Measuring ensures the right formula each time.

• Saves money by not wasting unused mixed dye. Only mix what you need.

What You’ll Need

• Hair dye

• Developer (10, 20, 30, or 40 volume)

• Mixing bowl – plastic, glass, or metal

• Measuring tools – scale, cups, syringes

• Non-metal utensils – whisk, spoon, brush

• Gloves

• Application brushes

How to Measure Developer

With a digital scale:

• Place empty bowl on scale, press tare to reset to 0

• Slowly pour developer into bowl until desired weight is reached

With measuring cups:

• Use a dedicated plastic or glass measuring cup

• Pour developer slowly, checking ounce marks for accuracy

• Scrape out every last drop into mixing bowl

With a syringe:

• Draw plunger to required number of ounces

• Slowly dispense developer into mixing bowl

How to Measure Hair Dye

From tubes:

• Check volume markings printed on tube

• Squeeze out desired amount

From bowls/containers:

• Use scale and weigh dye into bowl

• Use measuring spoons or syringe for accuracy

Hair Color to Developer Ratios

• 1:1 – For coloring hair close to natural shade

• 1:1.5 – For toners, 1-2 shade lift

• 1:2 – For 3-4 shade lift, high lift blonde

• 1:2.5 – For extra long or thick hair

Mixing Tips

• Mix well with whisk or brush until uniform consistency

• Mix slowly to avoid splashing

• Add dye to developer rather than vice versa

• Don’t use metal mixing bowls or utensils

• Always follow manufacturer’s instructions

Applying the Mixture

Once mixed, work quickly to apply dye evenly from roots to ends:

• Section hair cleanly and neatly

• Wear gloves to avoid staining hands

• Use tint brush, bowl brush or applicator bottle

• Time correctly – usually 25-45 minutes

• Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear

Maintaining Ratios For Consistency

• Save ratios and formulas in client records

• Weigh bowls before and after to track exact usage

• Take notes on any tweaks or changes for next time

• Consult previous photos for color reference

• Ask client about any sensitivities before applying

Key Takeaways

• Measure developer and hair dye accurately using scale, cups or syringes

• 1:1, 1:1.5, and 1:2 are common mixing ratios

• Mix thoroughly with non-metal utensils

• Apply quickly and evenly from roots to ends

• Record measurements and formulas for consistent results

• Ask client about sensitivities and do allergy test