Getting the hair colour shade you want doesn’t depend only on the brand you use—it also depends on how accurately you mix it. Even the best professional hair colour can give uneven or dull results if the mixing ratio is wrong. This guide explains hair colour mixing ratios in a simple, salon-friendly way so you can achieve consistent, professional results every time.
Why Hair Colour Mixing Ratio Matters
The mixing ratio controls how the colour develops, how long it lasts, and how healthy the hair feels after colouring. Too much developer can make the colour look weak or dry the hair, while too little developer may lead to poor grey coverage or uneven results. Correct ratios ensure proper pigment activation, balanced lift, and smooth application.
Understanding Hair Colour and Developer
Hair colour creams or gels are designed to work with a specific amount of developer. The developer activates the colour and helps it penetrate the hair shaft. Different developers (10, 20, 30 vol) affect lift and coverage, but the ratio between colour and developer is what keeps the formula stable and predictable.
Standard Hair Colour Mixing Ratios
Most permanent hair colours use a 1:1 ratio, meaning equal parts colour and developer.
Example: 60 ml colour + 60 ml developer
Some brands use a 1:1.5 ratio, which gives slightly more lift and smoother coverage.
Example: 60 ml colour + 90 ml developer
Always check the brand instructions, as professional colours are formulated differently.
Mixing Ratio for Grey Hair Coverage
For strong and even grey coverage, a 1:1 ratio with 20 volume developer is usually recommended.
This balance allows enough pigment to deposit while opening the cuticle properly to cover resistant greys. Many salons also mix natural shades with fashion shades to improve coverage.
Mixing Ratio for Highlights and Lightening
When using high-lift colours or lighteners, the ratio often changes.
High-lift colours usually require a 1:2 ratio (one part colour, two parts developer) to achieve extra lift.
Bleach or powder lighteners commonly use 1:2, depending on the desired consistency and brand guidelines.
Mixing Ratio for Toners
Toners are lighter in pigment and need more developer to spread evenly.
Most toners use a 1:2 ratio with 10 volume developer, especially on pre-lightened hair. This helps neutralise unwanted tones without over-processing.
Mixing Ratio for Semi-Permanent and Demi-Permanent Colours
Semi-permanent colours usually do not require developer and are applied directly to the hair.
Demi-permanent colours often use a 1:2 ratio with a low-strength activator for gentle colour deposit and shine.
Common Hair Colour Mixing Mistakes
Using the wrong ratio for the colour type
Guessing measurements instead of weighing or measuring
Mixing different brands of colour and developer
Changing ratios to “speed up” processing
These mistakes can lead to patchy colour, fading, or hair damage.
Pro Tips for Salon-Perfect Results
Always measure with a digital scale or measuring cup
Mix until the colour is smooth and lump-free
Do a strand test before full application
Stick to one brand for both colour and developer
Final Thoughts
Perfect hair colour starts with the right mixing ratio. When you follow the correct proportions, the colour applies evenly, processes correctly, and lasts longer—just like in a salon. Whether you’re covering greys, adding highlights, or toning blonde hair, accurate mixing is the key to professional, reliable results.
Disclaimer
This content is intended for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional hair colouring advice. Hair type, scalp condition, colour history, and product formulations may vary. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, perform a patch test and strand test before full application, and consult a professional hairstylist if you have damaged hair, a sensitive scalp, or are unsure about the mixing ratios.
