During which step of hair coloring does the developer play a crucial role?

The developer plays a critical role in all steps of the hair coloring process because it is essential for the chemical reactions that enable the dye to penetrate the hair shaft and achieve the desired color outcome.

In the context of applying toner, the developer activates the toner, allowing it to neutralize unwanted tones and enhance the overall color. During pre-lightening, which involves the bleaching process, the developer works with the lightening product to lift the natural pigment from the hair, which is crucial for achieving a lighter base. In the color application phase, the developer helps to facilitate the absorption of the hair color, allowing it to bond with the hair strands effectively.

This integral function across the different stages of hair coloring underscores the importance of using the correct developer strength, as it can significantly affect the results. The versatility and necessity of the developer in these processes justify that it plays a crucial role in every step of hair coloring.