Clairol Professional Hair Color Mixing Ratio Calculator
Formula for the “Clairol Professional Hair Color Mixing Ratio”
Clairol Professional hair color typically follows a 1:1 or 1:2 mixing ratio, depending on the product line:
- For permanent color: Mixing ratio is 1:1 → 1 part hair color + 1 part developer.
- For lightening or high-lift color: Mixing ratio is usually 1:2 → 1 part hair color + 2 parts developer.
Formula (for both options):
Developer Amount = Hair Color Amount × Mixing Ratio
Example:
- If mixing ratio = 1:1 and hair color = 60 ml → Developer = 60 ml
- If mixing ratio = 1:2 and hair color = 60 ml → Developer = 120 ml
Table of Contents
Hair color depends on correct mixing. As a textile engineer and fashion designer, I always follow accurate mixing formulas for consistent results. In textile dyeing, we follow strict ratios between dye and chemicals. Hair coloring needs the same discipline. If you use the wrong ratio, the color may become weak or cause damage. This article shows how to mix Clairol Professional hair color step by step.

What is the Clairol Professional Hair Color Mixing Ratio?
Clairol Professional offers permanent, semi-permanent, and lightening hair colors. Each type uses a different developer ratio. The standard mixing ratio is either 1:1 or 1:2.
- 1:1 Ratio means you mix 1 part hair color with 1 part developer.
- 1:2 Ratio means you mix 1 part hair color with 2 parts developer.
The ratio depends on the product type and your goal. For regular color applications, 1:1 is enough. For high-lift or lightening formulas, Clairol recommends 1:2.
Why the Correct Ratio Matters
The correct ratio keeps the hair safe and the color result even. In textile dyeing, extra chemicals can burn the fabric. In hair color, too much developer weakens the color. Too little developer may leave the hair uneven. I use the same method in fabric processing and hair color. I calculate every part before starting the application.
Types of Clairol Color and Matching Ratios
Permanent Color (Clairol Professional Liquicolor Permanente)
- Mixing Ratio: 1:1
- Use: Full grey coverage and long-lasting color
- Developer Type: 10, 20, or 30 volume Clairol Professional developer
Lightening Products (High-Lift or BW2 Powder)
- Mixing Ratio: 1:2
- Use: Lighten dark hair or create blonde shades
- Developer Type: 20, 30, or 40 volume
Semi-Permanent (Clairol Beautiful Collection)
- Mixing Ratio: No developer needed
- Use: Color refresh or tone down
- Developer Type: None
You must check the product label before mixing. If the product says 1:2, do not use 1:1. The outcome will not be correct.
How to Measure the Mixing Ratio
Step 1: Know the Mixing Type
Read the label to see if the ratio is 1:1 or 1:2.
Step 2: Measure Hair Color
Use a measuring cup or digital scale. Most tubes are 60 ml or 2 oz.
Step 3: Calculate Developer
- For 1:1: Add 60 ml developer for 60 ml color
- For 1:2: Add 120 ml developer for 60 ml color
Use our calculator to make this process fast.
Developer Volume Guide
Developer volume changes how the color works:
- 10 Volume: Adds tone or darkens hair
- 20 Volume: Covers grey or lifts one level
- 30 Volume: Lifts 2–3 levels
- 40 Volume: Lifts 3–4 levels (only for lightening)
I recommend 20 volume for normal coloring and 30 volume for brighter shades. Do not use 40 volume if your hair is weak.
Example Calculation (Using the Calculator)
Scenario 1:
You want to apply permanent color with a 1:1 ratio.
- Hair color = 60 ml
- Ratio = 1
- Developer = 60 ml
Scenario 2:
You want to bleach hair with BW2 lightener (1:2 ratio).
- Hair color = 60 ml
- Ratio = 2
- Developer = 120 ml
Mixing Instructions
- Put gloves on before mixing.
- Squeeze the color into a non-metallic bowl.
- Add the correct amount of developer.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Apply immediately for best results.
I always mix in a glass or plastic bowl. In textile dyeing, metal can cause a chemical reaction. The same rule applies to hair color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong Ratio: Always follow the correct ratio.
- Guessing Measurements: Use a scale or a proper cup.
- Using the Wrong Developer: High volume may damage hair.
- Not Mixing Well: Uneven mix causes patchy color.
- Delaying Application: Once mixed, use within 10–15 minutes.
Hair Color Mixing Tips from a Textile Engineer
- Weigh each part. Never guess.
- Keep the developer sealed. Exposure to air weakens it.
- Use exact ratios as you would in textile printing.
- Write down formulas and results for future use.
In both fabric dyeing and hair coloring, repeatable results depend on strict control of ratios. This calculator helps maintain accuracy.
Use the Clairol Hair Color Calculator
To make mixing easier, use our Clairol Professional Hair Color Mixing Ratio Calculator. It shows exactly how much developer you need based on your selected ratio and hair color amount. You don’t need to do the math manually. Just enter the values and click calculate.
Final Words
Hair color depends on precise mixing. Like textile dyeing, wrong measurements cause poor results. The Clairol Professional mixing ratio must be 1:1 or 1:2 based on the product. Use a scale, select the right developer, and mix properly. This calculator helps you work faster and more accurately.