What is the purpose of a developer in hair coloring?

The purpose of a developer in hair coloring is to facilitate the chemical reaction with hair dye. Developers contain hydrogen peroxide, which acts as an oxidizing agent, allowing the color molecules in the dye to penetrate the hair shaft effectively. During the coloring process, the developer helps open the hair cuticle, allowing the dye to enter the hair, and it also helps in lightening the natural pigment in the hair, especially when using permanent hair colors. This combination of actions is essential for achieving the desired results, whether it's enhancing the current color, changing the hue, or providing coverage for gray hair.

While hydration, lightening, and adding shine are important aspects of hair care and coloring, they do not fully describe the primary function of a developer in the dyeing process. The developer's role is fundamentally about enabling and activating the dye itself.