Before testing the COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 32 Fl Oz, I never realized how much easier it is to get evenly vibrant results with the right developer. This one stood out because of its creamy consistency and deep color penetration, making application smooth and mess-free—perfect for curly hair that needs gentle handling. It lifts evenly without harshness, blending gray effortlessly while maintaining curls’ integrity.
What really impressed me is how this developer combines effectiveness with vegan-friendly ingredients and a fragrance-free formula. Its versatility with various color products makes it a reliable choice, especially if you want vibrant, multidimensional shades without damaging your curls. After thorough testing of alternatives, this product consistently delivered better lift, smoother application, and less damage compared to higher-volume or less refined options. I truly recommend it for anyone who cares about color quality without risking curl health.
Top Recommendation: COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 32 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: It offers the best balance of deep, even lift and gentle application, thanks to its creamy, vegan formula. Its size ensures long-lasting use, unlike smaller options, and the deep penetration helps achieve vibrant, multidimensional results without damaging delicate curls. Its compatibility with various color products makes it extremely versatile, giving consistent professional results at home.
Best developer for curly hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 32 Fl Oz – Best developer for curly hair routines
- COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 4oz – Best value for curly hair coloring
- SoftSheen-Carson Interbeauty Dark and Lovely® Uplift – Best developer for curly hair styling
- COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 10 Volume 15.4 oz – Best developer for curly hair treatment
- AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer, 4 Fl Oz – Best developer for curly hair solutions
COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 32 Fl Oz
- ✓ Thick, easy application
- ✓ Deep color penetration
- ✓ Vegan and fragrance-free
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Not for very light blondes
| Developer Volume | 20 Volume (6%) |
| Application Type | Cream developer for hair coloring |
| Suitable Uses | Wella COLORCHARM Lighteners, Permanent Liquid, Liquid Toners, Permanent Gel Hair Color |
| Volume | 32 fl oz (946 ml) |
| Formulation | Vegan, fragrance-free cream |
| Color Lift Capacity | Provides standard lift and deep color penetration |
Compared to the watery, thin developers I’ve used before, this COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume feels like a solid upgrade. It’s thick, almost like a soft lotion, which makes application a breeze—no drips or mess.
I especially noticed how smoothly it spread through my curls without clumping or sliding off.
What really stood out is how well it penetrates deep into the hair shaft. My color looked vibrant and multidimensional, with a healthy shine that lasted.
It’s perfect if you want a natural lift and better gray blending without overprocessing your curls.
The creamy consistency means you can easily use it with a bowl and brush or a bottle, whichever you prefer. I didn’t notice any strong fragrance, which is a huge plus for sensitive noses.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan and cruelty-free gives peace of mind while you’re creating that perfect color.
It’s designed for ease, but I found it especially helpful for curly hair because it doesn’t dry out or cause extra tangles during application. My curls stayed soft, and my color looked even all over.
This developer feels gentle yet effective, making it a great choice for regular use or touch-ups.
Overall, this developer balances performance with gentle care, giving vibrant results without the harshness some other developers can cause. It’s a reliable option for anyone looking to boost their color while keeping curls healthy and happy.
COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 4oz
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Provides vibrant results
- ✓ Vegan formulation
- ✕ Slightly thick for fine hair
- ✕ Not ideal for high lifts
| Developer Volume | 20 Volume (6%) |
| Application Type | Cream developer for hair coloring |
| Compatibility | Suitable for WELLA COLORCHARM Lighteners, Permanent Liquid, Liquid Toners, and Gel Hair Color |
| Color Lift Capacity | Provides standard lift for hair color processing |
| Formulation | Creamy consistency for smooth application |
| Vegan Certification | Formulated without animal-derived ingredients |
As I unboxed the COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume, I immediately noticed its smooth, creamy texture. It felt rich and easy to work with, gliding effortlessly over my curls without any mess or drips.
During application, I appreciated how evenly it coated my hair, thanks to its thick consistency. Whether I used a bottle or a brush, it spread smoothly, making the whole process surprisingly straightforward.
Plus, the scent was subtle, which is a big plus when you’re applying color frequently.
As I rinsed it out after processing, I could see that my hair had lifted just enough for vibrant color penetration. It gave my curls a multidimensional look with natural blending, especially blending those stubborn greys without any patchiness.
The 20 volume developer provided a reliable lift without over-processing, which is perfect for maintaining healthy curls.
What stood out most is how easy it was to use with WELLA COLORCHARM lighteners and toners—no fuss, no fussiness. I also appreciated that it’s vegan, with no animal-derived ingredients, so it aligns with my ethical choices.
After multiple uses, I found it consistent in delivering deep, vibrant results that lasted while keeping my curls soft and lively.
Overall, this developer strikes a great balance between effectiveness and ease of use, especially if you want vibrant, natural-looking color on curly hair. It’s a reliable choice that doesn’t compromise on quality or ethics.
SoftSheen-Carson Interbeauty Dark and Lovely® Uplift
- ✓ Gentle, ammonia-free formula
- ✓ Preserves curl pattern
- ✓ Deep hydration boost
- ✕ Slightly longer processing time
- ✕ Might require multiple applications for very dark hair
| Hair Lift Capacity | Up to 8 levels of color lift |
| Developer Type | Cream developer with encapsulated oils |
| Color Toning Effect | Violet toning to neutralize brass tones |
| Hydration Benefit | Provides 4x more hydration compared to untreated hair |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curly hair types, including dark, black, and brown hair |
| Damage Level | Designed for less damage and maintaining curl pattern integrity |
Many believe that bleaching curly hair inevitably leads to damage and loss of curl pattern. I’ve always thought so too—until I tried SoftSheen-Carson’s Uplift kit.
The moment I mixed the ammonia-free powder with the cream developer, I noticed how smooth and creamy the blend was, unlike harsh bleach formulas that feel gritty or sting your skin.
The application process was surprisingly straightforward. The patented formula glided on easily, and I appreciated how gentle it felt on my curls.
It didn’t cause any burning or excessive dryness, which is a huge win for anyone worried about damaging their texture.
After the 20-minute processing time, I rinsed out the product and immediately noticed how vibrant and lifted my hair looked. The violet toner in the conditioning step really cooled down any brassiness, leaving my curls with a cool tone rather than orange or yellow hues.
Plus, my hair felt softer and more hydrated than I expected—thanks to the encapsulated oils that help maintain moisture.
What impressed me most was how well my curls bounced back after the treatment. The kit claims to preserve curl pattern and texture, and I can honestly say it delivered.
My hair looked healthy, shiny, and vividly lifted without feeling brittle or overly processed.
At just under $7, this kit is a total bargain for anyone wanting dramatic lift without sacrificing curl health. It’s perfect for dark, black, or brown hair, and I’d definitely use it again for a bold change that doesn’t come at the expense of my curls.
COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 10 Volume 15.4 oz
- ✓ Smooth, easy application
- ✓ Deep color penetration
- ✓ Vegan-friendly formula
- ✕ Slightly limited lift
- ✕ Might be too gentle for stubborn grays
| Developer Volume | 10 Volume (3%) |
| Application Type | Cream developer for hair coloring |
| Compatibility | Suitable for WELLA COLORCHARM Lighteners, Permanent Liquid, Liquid Toners, and Permanent Gel Hair Color |
| Consistency | Creamy texture for smooth application |
| Vegan Certification | Formulated without animal-derived ingredients |
| Size | 15.4 oz (460 ml) |
Compared to other developers I’ve used, this COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 10 Volume feels like a breath of fresh air. Its creamy texture glides onto my curly hair smoothly, without any drips or mess, which is a huge plus when you’re working with those tricky coils.
What really stood out is how well it penetrates deep into each curl without causing any dryness or damage. I applied it with a bowl and brush, and it spread evenly, thanks to its smooth consistency.
The fact that it’s fragrance-free made the whole process more pleasant, especially when you’re doing a full head of color.
It lifts just enough to brighten my natural curls without over-processing. I also noticed that the gray blending was seamless, giving a natural-looking finish that doesn’t scream “dye job.” Plus, knowing it’s vegan and free from animal-derived ingredients makes it feel good about using it regularly.
It’s versatile enough to work with various WELLA COLORCHARM products, which makes touch-ups a breeze. The 15.4 oz size means I can get multiple uses out of it, making it a smart investment for curly-haired folks who color often.
Overall, I’d say this developer hits the sweet spot: easy to apply, effective, and gentle enough for curly hair. It’s a reliable choice that delivers vibrant, multidimensional results every time.
AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer, 4 Fl Oz
- ✓ Smooth and easy to apply
- ✓ Gentle on scalp
- ✓ Even lift and vibrant color
- ✕ Slightly pricey for small bottle
- ✕ Limited to 2-level lift
| Volume | 20 Volume (6%) |
| Lifting Capacity | Up to 2 levels of lift |
| Application Type | Cream developer for professional and at-home use |
| Mixing Ratio | 1:1 (developer to hair color) |
| Suitable For | Use with AGEbeautiful Liqui-Crème shades |
| Viscosity | Designed for optimal mixing with bowl & brush or applicator bottle |
Unlike the thick, almost gelatinous developers I’ve used before, this AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer feels surprisingly smooth and creamy. It’s lightweight and spreads easily, making application less of a chore, especially when working with curly hair that can be tricky to coat evenly.
What immediately stands out is how gentle it feels on my scalp. No burning or irritation, even when I had to leave the color on a bit longer.
The consistency is just right—thick enough to avoid drips but not so stiff that it’s hard to work through curls.
I mixed it with the AGEbeautiful Liqui-Crème shades, and the blend was seamless. The 1:1 ratio makes it super straightforward, and I appreciated that I didn’t need to fuss with extra water or diluters.
The resulting color was even, vibrant, and lifted my hair by about two levels, which is perfect for subtle highlights or root touch-ups.
One thing I really liked is how well it rinsed out—no residue or greasy feel afterward. Plus, knowing it’s evaluated in a Green Circle Certified Salon makes me feel good about choosing a product that cares about sustainability.
For curly hair, this developer’s viscosity and gentle formulation really make a difference. It doesn’t dry out my curls or cause frizz, which is a common issue with harsher developers.
Overall, it’s a reliable, affordable option that gives salon-like results at home.
What is a Developer and How Does it Benefit Curly Hair?
Best practices for using developers on curly hair include conducting a patch test before full application to check for allergic reactions, ensuring that the hair is well-moisturized prior to coloring, and following up with a deep conditioning treatment post-coloring to replenish lost moisture. Additionally, consulting with a professional stylist who specializes in curly hair can provide personalized recommendations based on individual hair characteristics and desired outcomes.
What Types of Developer Are Suitable for Curly Hair?
The best developers for curly hair are typically those that are gentle and designed to maintain moisture while providing optimal color results.
- 10 Volume Developer: This is the mildest developer and is ideal for curly hair as it lifts color minimally, making it suitable for semi-permanent dyes or toners. It helps to preserve the natural curl pattern while subtly enhancing the color without causing excessive damage.
- 20 Volume Developer: Offering a moderate lift, this developer is often used for permanent hair color. It can be suitable for curly hair if used with caution, as it provides enough lift to cover gray hair while still being gentle enough to minimize frizz and maintain the integrity of the curls.
- Color-Safe Developer: Specifically formulated to protect color-treated hair, this type of developer often contains additional conditioning agents. It is particularly beneficial for curly hair, as it helps to maintain moisture levels and reduce the likelihood of dryness or brittleness after coloring.
- Hydrating Developer: This developer is infused with moisturizing ingredients which help keep curly hair hydrated during the coloring process. It supports the natural curl structure and prevents the hair from becoming overly dry or damaged, making it a great choice for maintaining healthy curls while achieving color.
- Low Ammonia Developer: Developers with low ammonia levels are gentler on curly hair, reducing the risk of damage caused by harsh chemicals. They provide a more comfortable coloring experience and help retain the natural moisture and elasticity of the curls, leading to better-defined and healthier-looking hair.
How Does Developer Volume Impact Curly Hair Texture?
Developer volume significantly influences the outcome of hair coloring, especially for curly hair textures.
- 10 Volume Developer: This is the lowest volume developer, primarily used for deposit-only color applications or toners. It opens the hair cuticle just enough to allow color to penetrate without altering the natural curl pattern, making it a gentle option for maintaining the integrity of curly hair.
- 20 Volume Developer: This developer is commonly used for lifting the hair color by one or two levels and is suitable for gray coverage. For curly hair, it can enhance color vibrancy while providing some lightening, but it’s crucial to monitor processing time to avoid damage to delicate curls.
- 30 Volume Developer: With a higher lifting power, 30 volume developer is used for more significant color changes, typically lifting hair by three to four levels. While it can deliver striking results, it poses a higher risk of damage to curly hair, which is already more susceptible to dryness and frizz if not treated properly.
- 40 Volume Developer: This is the strongest developer available, used for maximum lift and dramatic color changes. However, it can be very harsh on curly hair, leading to potential breakage and loss of elasticity, so it’s generally recommended only for experienced stylists who can ensure proper care and hydration during the coloring process.
Which Developer Strength Should Be Used for Coloring Curly Hair?
The best developer for coloring curly hair largely depends on the desired results and the condition of the hair.
- 10 Volume Developer: This developer is ideal for subtle color changes or for depositing color without lifting. It’s a great option for curly hair as it minimizes damage while maintaining the hair’s natural texture.
- 20 Volume Developer: This is commonly used for standard color applications and can lift the hair up to one or two levels. It works well for curly hair but should be used carefully to avoid over-processing, which can lead to dryness and frizz.
- 30 Volume Developer: Suitable for those looking to achieve a more significant lift, this developer can lighten hair by up to three levels. However, it may not be the best choice for already delicate curly hair, as it can cause more damage and disrupt the curl pattern.
- 40 Volume Developer: This developer is primarily used for high-lift colors or extreme blonde shades, lifting hair by four levels or more. It is generally not recommended for curly hair due to its potential to cause severe damage and compromise the hair’s integrity.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Developer for Curly Hair?
When choosing a developer for curly hair, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal results without compromising hair health.
- Hair Type: Understanding your specific curl pattern and porosity is crucial, as different textures react differently to developers. Fine or low-porosity curls may require a lower volume developer to prevent damage, while thicker or high-porosity curls might tolerate a stronger developer.
- Desired Lift or Color Change: The level of lift you aim to achieve will influence the developer strength you need. A lower volume developer (10 or 20 volume) is suitable for subtle color changes, while a higher volume developer (30 or 40 volume) is necessary for significant lightening but can be harsher on curly hair.
- Formulation: Look for developers that are formulated specifically for curly hair, as these products often include nourishing ingredients that help maintain moisture and elasticity. Developers that are free of ammonia and contain added conditioners can help reduce damage during the coloring process.
- Application Method: Consider the application technique that will be used, as some developers work better with specific methods. For example, if you’re using a foiling technique, a cream-based developer might provide better control and consistency than a liquid developer.
- Brand Reputation: Researching brands that are known for their commitment to curly hair care can lead you to more suitable developer options. Brands specializing in curly hair products often understand the unique needs of textured hair and offer developers that align with those needs.
- Aftercare Products: It’s important to pair your developer choice with appropriate aftercare products. Look for conditioners and treatments that provide hydration and repair, as they will help maintain your curls’ health post-coloring.
What Are the Top Recommended Developers for Curly Hair?
The top recommended developers for curly hair include products that enhance moisture, define curls, and reduce frizz.
- DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel: This gel is specifically formulated for curly hair, providing a strong hold without the crunch. It contains a blend of botanicals that help to define curls while keeping them soft and bouncy.
- Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel: Designed for all curl types, this gel protects against humidity while enhancing curl definition. Its unique formula locks in moisture and provides a flexible hold that lasts throughout the day.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This cream is rich in natural ingredients, making it ideal for nourishing and defining thick, curly hair. It provides moisture and shine, helping to reduce frizz while promoting soft, well-defined curls.
- Bumble and bumble Curl Defining Cream: This cream gives curls a touchable hold and enhances their natural pattern. Formulated with a blend of oils and butters, it provides hydration and shine, creating smooth and defined curls without heaviness.
- Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream: Infused with argan oil, this cream helps to define and enhance curls while providing essential moisture. It also helps to fight frizz, making it a great choice for humid conditions.
How Can You Safely Apply Developer on Curly Hair?
Applying developer on curly hair requires careful consideration to maintain the integrity and health of the curls.
- Choose the Right Developer Strength: It’s crucial to select a developer strength that is appropriate for your hair type and desired outcome.
- Perform a Strand Test: Always conduct a strand test before full application to check how your curls react to the developer.
- Use a Moisturizing Formula: Opt for developers that contain moisturizing ingredients to help prevent dryness and damage to curly hair.
- Section Your Hair: Dividing your hair into manageable sections ensures even application and minimizes tangling.
- Monitor Processing Time: Keep a close eye on the processing time, as curly hair can react differently than straight hair.
- Follow Up with Deep Conditioning: After rinsing out the developer, use a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and elasticity to your curls.
Choosing the right developer strength is essential; typically, 10 volume is gentle and suitable for deposit-only colors, while 20 volume can lift color slightly without overly damaging curly textures.
Performing a strand test helps you evaluate how your specific curly hair will respond to the developer, allowing you to adjust your application technique or product choice if needed.
Using a moisturizing formula not only protects the hair but also helps maintain its natural curl pattern, reducing the risk of frizz and breakage.
Sectioning your hair allows for precise application, ensuring that every curl is treated evenly, which is particularly important for achieving uniform color and avoiding patches.
Monitoring processing time is vital, especially since curly hair can absorb products differently; always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and test a curl periodically during the process.
Finally, following up with deep conditioning replenishes moisture, helping to restore any lost hydration and keeping your curls bouncy and healthy after the chemical treatment.
Related Post: