Developer

Term from Hairdressing industry explained for recruiters

A Developer in hairdressing is a professional who works with hair color chemicals and treatments. They are responsible for mixing and applying various chemical solutions that help create different hair effects, like lightening hair color or creating specific tones. The term "developer" comes from its role in "developing" or activating hair colors and treatments. It's often mentioned alongside terms like "peroxide" or "activator." When you see this term in a resume, it usually refers to someone who has experience handling these important hair processing chemicals safely and effectively.

Examples in Resumes

Expertly mixed Developer strengths from 10 to 40 volume for various coloring needs

Recommended appropriate Developer volumes based on client hair condition and desired results

Created custom Developer combinations for gentle yet effective highlighting processes

Typical job title: "Hair Color Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Hair Colorist Color Technician Hair Color Specialist Chemical Processing Specialist Hair Treatment Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Advanced Level Questions

Q: How do you determine which developer volume to use for different hair types and desired results?

Expected Answer: A seasoned colorist should explain how they assess natural hair color, desired outcome, and hair condition to choose between 10, 20, 30, or 40 volume developers, emphasizing safety and optimal results.

Q: What precautions do you take when mixing developers with different color formulations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss proper mixing ratios, importance of patch tests, understanding chemical reactions, and safety measures to protect both client and stylist.

Intermediate Level Questions

Q: How do you explain different developer strengths to clients?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to communicate technical information in client-friendly terms, explaining how different volumes affect processing time and results.

Q: What signs indicate that a developer might be too strong for a client's hair?

Expected Answer: Should mention signs of scalp irritation, excessive damage to hair shaft, and importance of strand testing before full application.

Entry Level Questions

Q: What is the basic purpose of a developer in hair coloring?

Expected Answer: Should explain that developer activates hair color, helps open the hair cuticle, and determines how much lift (lightening) occurs.

Q: What are the standard volume strengths of developers?

Expected Answer: Should know the basic volumes (10, 20, 30, 40) and their general uses in hair coloring processes.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of developer volumes
  • Mixing standard developer ratios
  • Following manufacturer guidelines
  • Basic safety procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Custom developer formulation
  • Advanced color correction
  • Problem-solving for difficult cases
  • Precise timing management

Senior (5+ years)

  • Expert chemical knowledge
  • Complex color formulation
  • Training others in developer usage
  • Handling challenging color corrections

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unfamiliarity with basic developer volumes
  • No knowledge of safety procedures
  • Inability to explain mixing ratios
  • No experience with strand testing
  • Poor understanding of timing with different developer strengths