California Barber Written ExamHair Care ServicesMedium
A client requests a hair color that is two levels lighter than her current natural level 6 (dark blonde). The barber plans to use a permanent hair color. What volume of hydrogen peroxide developer is typically recommended to achieve two levels of lift?
- A40 Volume
- B30 Volume
- C10 Volume
- D20 Volume
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 30 Volume
To achieve two levels of lift with permanent hair color, 30 volume hydrogen peroxide developer is typically recommended. 10 volume is for depositing color or 1 level of lift, 20 volume for 1-2 levels, and 40 volume for 3-4 levels (often with lightener, not just color).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 40 Volume developer provides 3-4 levels of lift and is generally too strong for permanent color and can cause excessive damage if not used carefully, often reserved for lighteners.
- C. 10 Volume developer is primarily for depositing color or achieving minimal (1 level) lift.
- D. 20 Volume developer provides 1-2 levels of lift, but 30 volume is more reliably used for a full 2 levels of lift.
Developer Volume & Lift
Developer volume indicates the concentration of hydrogen peroxide and determines the amount of lift (lightening) a hair color or lightener can achieve. Higher volumes provide more lift.
- 10 Vol: 0-1 level lift/deposit.
- 20 Vol: 1-2 levels lift.
- 30 Vol: 2-3 levels lift.
- 40 Vol: 3-4 levels lift (often with lightener).
Memory trick: Volume 'ventures' to lift the 'levels'.