Dyeing your hair can be a game-changer - whether you're covering grays, trying a bold new look, or refreshing your natural color. At Albura Beauty Supply, we want to empower you with the tools and knowledge to get stunning, salon-worthy results at home or in the salon.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to dye your hair, including the right developer volumes, mixing ratios, and techniques for both dark shades (levels 1–3) and lighter shades (levels 7–10).

Understanding Hair Color Levels

Before mixing and applying color, it's important to understand hair color levels:

Level 1 - Deep Black

Level 2 - Black/Brown

Level 3 - Dark Brown

Level 4-6 - Medium to Light Browns

Level 7-10 - Dark Blonde to Very Light Blonde

The level you’re aiming for will determine the developer strength and processing time you should use.

Choosing the Right Developer Volume

For Dark Hair Shades (Levels 1-3)

If you’re coloring your hair a dark brown, black-brown, or black, you don’t need a high-volume developer. These shades are deposit-only and don’t require lifting the natural pigment.

✅ Use 10 Volume (3%) Cream Developer

• • Best for depositing rich, dark color

  • Ideal for natural, virgin hair with no gray

✅ For gray coverage, use 20 Volume (6%) Developer

• • Helps lift the cuticle slightly for better pigment penetration

  • Ensures full gray coverage, especially at the roots

For Lighter Shades (Levels 7-10)

Going lighter requires lifting your natural pigment - which means a higher volume developer is necessary.

🔷 Use 20 Volume for going 1-2 levels lighter

🔷 Use 30 Volume for going 2-3 levels lighter

🔷 Use 40 Volume (with caution) for maximum lift - usually in blonding or high-lift shades

Always remember: the lighter you go, the more important it is to consider the underlying pigments (warm tones like orange or yellow that may appear) and toning steps afterward.

Mixing Ratios: Getting the Right Consistency

Italian Hair Colour Brands

Most Italian professional color lines - known for their richness and shine - recommend a mixing ratio of 1:1.5. That means:

1 part hair color to 1.5 parts developer

This slightly thinner mixture allows for easier application and more even saturation.

Other Hair Color Brands

Mixing ratios can vary by brand, so always read the manufacturer’s instructions:

1:1 ratio - Common in many standard permanent color lines

1:2 ratio - Often used in high-lift blonde colors or toners

1:1.5 ratio - Standard for many European/Italian color lines

Albura Beauty Supply stocks a variety of professional color brands, so feel free to ask us which ratio is best for your chosen line.

Step-by-Step: How to Dye Your Hair

Here’s a simplified application guide for permanent hair color:

What You'll Need:

1. Professional hair color
2. Cream developer (10VOL, 20VOL, etc.)
3. Non-metallic mixing bowl and brush
4. Gloves
5. Sectioning clips
6. Timer
7. Shampoo and conditioner for color-treated hair

1. Section the Hair

Divide your hair into four sections for better control and precision.

2. Mix the Color

In your bowl, mix the color and developer according to your brand’s recommended ratio (1:1, 1:1.5, or 1:2).

3. Apply the Color

Start at the roots, especially if you're covering gray. Then work the color down the lengths and ends. For previously colored hair, apply differently to avoid banding (e.g., roots first, then mids and ends).

4. Processing Time

Typically 30-45 minutes, depending on:

1. Developer volume
2. Target shade
3. Gray coverage needs

Always refer to your specific product’s timing instructions.

5. Rinse and Condition

Once time is up, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow up with a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to lock in moisture and shine.

Pro Tips for Best Results

1. Strand Test First - Always test a small hidden section to preview your result
2. Don’t Overlap - When doing root touch-ups, avoid reapplying color to already-colored lengths
3. Use Sulfate-Free Products - Protect your color by using shampoos formulated for dyed hair
4. Toning Matters - For lightening services, follow up with a toner to neutralize brassiness

Shop the Best Hair Color & Developer at Albura

At Albura Beauty Supply, we carry a wide range of professional hair color lines, developers, and aftercare products to help you achieve flawless results every time. Whether you’re aiming for a bold black, a dimensional brunette, or a bright blonde, our team is here to support your hair journey.