ESTEL DeLuxe hair colour: shade numbers and choosing developer

ESTEL DeLuxe is a professional hair colour range in which the shade number alone cannot predict the final result. The starting base, previous colouring, amount of grey, hair porosity and correct developer all matter. This guide explains how to understand the codes and choose products responsibly.

What do the numbers on hair colour packaging usually mean?

Professional colour numbering usually includes a depth level and an additional tone designation. The first number often indicates lightness, with the tonal nuance after the slash. However, colour codes do not always have the same meaning across manufacturers or even ranges. Check the final tone name in the palette for the specific ESTEL range.

• 8/1 and 10/1 are shades at different lightness levels; the same number after the slash does not mean the same final result.

• 10/65 is a specific manufacturer shade code and should not be interpreted solely using another brand's palette.

• 0/00 and other corrector codes refer to special products within the colour system; check their purpose in the technical description.

How do you choose a shade for your hair?

First assess the natural root shade, coloured lengths and amount of grey. If hair is already coloured darker, simply applying a lighter shade is usually not enough to achieve the desired lift. Damaged or porous lengths may absorb colour more intensely or unevenly. Consult a professional hairdresser if you are unsure about colour correction.

Which developer should I choose: 1,5 %, 3 %, 6 %, 9 % or 12 %?

Developer concentration depends on the specific colour formula, colouring goal and manufacturer's method, not just the desired colour. A lower concentration is not necessarily suitable for every toning service, and a higher one should not be chosen simply for a lighter result. ESTEL DeLuxe developers and activators are separate products; check compatibility with the selected range before mixing.

Example in the catalogue: De Luxe 10/1 Platinum grey blonde.

To check compatibility: Developer DE LUXE 6% 1000 ml.

Another developer concentration: Developer DE LUXE 3% 1000 ml.

Practical colouring safety checklist

• Always follow the mixing proportions and processing time stated on the packaging for the specific colour system.

• Perform the manufacturer's specified sensitivity / allergy test and wear protective gloves.

• Do not exceed the specified developer concentration or attempt to correct severely damaged hair yourself.

• Do not colour hair if the scalp is irritated or damaged.

Common questions

Will the same code always look the same? No: starting colour, porosity and colour history affect the result. Can I mix developers and colours from different manufacturers? Only if the manufacturer's technical instructions permit it. Do I need to buy developer separately? Check the specific product's contents and description.

Where can I see ESTEL DeLuxe shades?

Browse the ESTEL DeLuxe hair colour category and compare individual products' shade codes and volumes.

This guide provides information about cosmetic products. Complex colour changes and colouring severely damaged hair are safest in professional hands.