This is for anyone using Matrix SoColor permanent hair color who needs a low-lift developer — most often for covering gray or refreshing color without lightening the hair further. It's available through general beauty retailers rather than exclusively professional-only distributors, but mixing and timing a peroxide developer correctly is easier for someone who has colored hair before than for a complete first-timer.

The reason to reach for 10 volume specifically, rather than defaulting to a stronger developer, is that it deposits color and covers gray without unnecessarily lightening hair that doesn't need to be lifted. Pairing it with Matrix SoColor color, as it's formulated to be used, gives more predictable, even results than mixing developer and color from different brands.

Mix fresh, right before applying color.

1. Combine in a 1:1 ratio with Matrix SoColor permanent hair color.
2. Mix until evenly blended.
3. Apply to hair using the desired technique.
4. Process at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, checking as you go.
5. Rinse, then shampoo and condition.

Its low volume is both its main strength and its main limit.

Pros

• Minimal to no lift means less stress on hair than a higher-volume developer, useful for gray coverage on hair already close to the target shade
• Cream consistency mixes evenly and is easy to apply with a bowl and brush
• Formulated specifically to work with the Matrix SoColor line for predictable results

Cons

• Not useful for lightening hair — anyone wanting to lift color meaningfully needs a higher volume (20, 30, or 40) instead
• Only intended for use with Matrix SoColor color; mixing it with other brands isn't recommended and may not process correctly
• Contains benzoyl peroxide, which, like other peroxide developers, can be irritating to sensitive scalps