Can I Use 20 Volume Developer With Shades Eq Gloss

Let's talk hair! Specifically, that oh-so-glossy, gorgeous hair we all crave. Shades EQ glosses are a salon staple, known for their incredible shine, subtle color enhancement, and ability to tone without commitment. But, when it comes to mixing color, things can get a little…murky. One question pops up again and again: Can I use 20 volume developer with Shades EQ Gloss? The answer is a resounding… well, it's complicated, and that's why this is such a fun and important topic to dive into. It’s all about understanding the rules so you can break them (safely!) later, or at least make informed decisions about your hair.

First, let's get clear on what we're working with. Shades EQ is a demi-permanent hair color, meaning it doesn't lift your natural hair color. It deposits tone and adds major shine. The magic happens with its dedicated developer, Shades EQ Processing Solution. This developer is specifically formulated to work with the acidic pH of the gloss, ensuring optimal color deposit and minimal damage. Think of it as the perfect dance partner – they move together flawlessly.

Now, 20 volume developer is designed to lift hair color. It’s stronger stuff, typically used with permanent hair color. The purpose of using a developer is to open the hair cuticle, allowing the color molecules to penetrate and either deposit color (like a demi-permanent) or lift existing color (like a permanent). But, and this is a big but, using 20 volume with Shades EQ essentially turns it into something it’s not designed to be. It could lift your natural pigment which is not the intended use case.

So, why do people even ask about using 20 volume? The most common reason is the desire for more coverage, especially when dealing with stubborn grays or wanting a more noticeable color change. People might think a stronger developer will help the color "grab" better. However, this is where the potential for damage comes in. Shades EQ is formulated to be gentle; using a higher volume developer can disrupt the delicate balance, leading to dryness, damage, and unpredictable color results. Using a stronger developer can lead to unwanted warmth or brassiness in your hair.

The recommended course of action is always to use the Shades EQ Processing Solution. It's designed to deliver the best results: beautiful, shiny, and healthy-looking hair. However, there might be very specific scenarios where a professional stylist, with years of experience, might carefully consider using a lower volume developer than 20 (like a 10), but only under extremely controlled circumstances and with a thorough understanding of hair color theory. This is usually to combat very resistant gray hairs, but it is risky and not recommended for home use!

Ultimately, unless you are a trained professional colorist, stick with the Shades EQ Processing Solution. It's the safest and most effective way to achieve those enviable, glossy results. Remember, when it comes to hair color, it's always better to err on the side of caution. Your hair will thank you!