Which developer volume is used for complete gray coverage?

The use of 20 volume developer is ideal for achieving complete gray coverage. This developer volume contains 6% hydrogen peroxide, which is strong enough to lift the hair cuticle and allow for proper pigment penetration. When dealing with gray hair, particularly resistant gray, a 20 volume developer can effectively deposit color while also providing adequate coverage.

In many dye formulations, particularly permanent colors, 20 volume developer is often recommended because it can lift the natural color slightly while simultaneously allowing the new color to cover and blend with the gray strands. This balance is essential for achieving a natural look without over-processing the hair.

Using developers with higher volumes, such as 30 or 40, would typically be more aggressive, providing more lift but potentially leading to more damage and less control over the final shade—which is not usually necessary for just covering gray hair. Therefore, opting for a 20 volume developer strikes an optimal balance between lift and deposit, making it the preferred choice for comprehensive gray coverage.