For anyone delving into the world of professional hair colouring, the term “developer” or “oxydant” is paramount. Among the leading names in hair care, L’Oréal Professionnel stands out, and their L’Oréal Oxydant Creme N.2 30 Vol 1L V034 is a staple in salons worldwide. This in-depth article will explore everything you need to know about this essential product, from its purpose and benefits to how to use it effectively and what to consider when purchasing.
What is L’Oréal Oxydant Crème N.2 30 Vol 1L V034?
At its core, L’Oréal Oxydant Creme N.2 30 Vol 1L V034 is a hydrogen peroxide-based developer cream designed to be mixed with professional hair colours or bleaches. The “N.2” indicates it’s the second strength in a series (typically 12.5, 20, 30, and 40 volume), and “30 Vol” signifies its 30 volume (or 9%) concentration of hydrogen peroxide. The “1L” refers to its generous 1-litre bottle size, making it a cost-effective choice for professional use or frequent at-home colourists. The “V034” is likely a batch or product code.
This creamy formula serves as the activating agent and catalyst that allows hair colour pigments to penetrate the hair shaft. Without a developer, permanent hair dyes cannot effectively work, as the oxidant opens the hair’s cuticle layer, allowing the colour molecules to deposit or the lightening agents to lift existing pigment.
The Role of 30 Volume (9%) in Hair Colouring
The “volume” of a developer indicates its strength and, consequently, its ability to lift or lighten hair colour. A 30 volume (9%) developer is considered a moderate to strong developer, offering significant lift.
Here’s a breakdown of what 30 volume (9%) L’Oréal Oxydant Creme is primarily used for:
Significant Lightening (Up to 3 Levels): This is its most common application. When mixed with hair colour, 30 volume can lighten natural hair colour by up to three levels. For instance, if you have dark brown hair and want to achieve a medium blonde, a 30 volume developer with an appropriate hair dye could help you get there.
High-Lift Blonde Shades: For achieving lighter blonde tones, particularly on darker natural hair, 30 volume is often recommended.
Enhancing Vibrant Colours: When aiming for intense, vibrant colours, a 30 volume developer can help ensure the pigments are fully activated and deposited for maximum impact.
Working with Permanent Hair Colours: It’s typically used with L’Oréal Professionnel’s permanent hair colour lines, such as Majirel, Majirouge, and Majiblond, to achieve long-lasting, uniform colour results.
Mild to Medium Bleaching: While higher volumes (like 40 vol) are often used for extreme bleaching, 30 volume can be used for controlled bleaching or when lifting hair that isn’t excessively dark.
Important Note: While some sources might suggest 30 volume for grey coverage, it’s generally recommended that 20 volume (6%) is more suitable for full grey coverage without excessive lift, which can sometimes expose the grey rather than cover it evenly. 30 volume may be used for very resistant grey hair, but often in combination with specific grey-covering colour formulations.
Key Benefits of L’Oréal Oxydant Crème N.2 30 Vol 1L V034
This specific L’Oréal developer is highly regarded for several reasons:
Consistent and Uniform Colour Results: Its high-quality formulation ensures that the colour develops evenly, leading to a professional, streak-free finish.
Creamy, Rich Texture: The creamy consistency makes it incredibly easy to mix with hair colour and apply smoothly to the hair. This prevents dripping and ensures uniform distribution, which is crucial for even colour.
Gentle and Controlled Action: Despite its strength, L’Oréal’s formula is designed to offer a gentle, controlled lighting and colouring action, minimizing damage to the hair while achieving desired results. It often contains protective agents to respect the hair during the colouring process.
Optimized for L’Oréal Colours: It’s specifically formulated to work seamlessly with L’Oréal Professionnel hair dyes, ensuring optimal lift, colour development, and longevity.
Long-Lasting Colour and Shine: By effectively activating the hair colour pigments, it contributes to vibrant, durable colour that maintains its intensity and shine over time.
Large Professional Size: The 1-litre bottle is economical and practical for frequent use, whether in a salon or for those who colour their hair regularly at home.
Ammonia-Free (for the developer itself): While hair dyes themselves may contain ammonia, the oxydant creme itself is typically ammonia-free, contributing to a less harsh chemical odour and potentially a gentler experience.
How to Use L’Oréal Oxydant Creme N.2 30 Vol 1L V034
Using any developer, especially a 30 volume one, requires careful attention to instructions and safety. It is highly recommended to consult a professional hairstylist or follow the specific instructions of the hair colour product you are mixing it with.
Here’s a general guide, but always refer to the hair dye’s instructions for precise ratios and processing times:
Preparation:
Gloves are essential: Always wear suitable, disposable gloves during preparation, application, and rinsing.
Patch Test: Crucially, perform an allergy patch test 48 hours before each use, even if you’ve used the products before. This is vital to prevent severe allergic reactions. Apply a small amount of the mixed product behind your ear or on your inner elbow. If any irritation, redness, or itching occurs, do not proceed with colouring.
Hair Condition: Start with dry, unwashed hair. It’s often recommended not to wash hair immediately before colouring, as natural oils can provide some protection to the scalp.
Non-Metallic Bowl: Use a non-metallic bowl and applicator brush for mixing and applying.
Mixing:
Follow Ratios: Carefully follow the mixing ratio specified on your chosen L’Oréal hair colour product. Common ratios for 30 volume with L’Oréal permanent colours like Majirel are 1 part colour to 1.5 parts developer (e.g., 50ml of Majirel colour to 75ml of 30 Vol Oxydant Creme). For lightening powders, the ratio may vary.
Thorough Mixing: Mix the colour and developer thoroughly until a smooth, uniform cream is achieved.
Application:
Section Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections.
Apply Evenly: Apply the mixture evenly to the hair, ensuring all strands are saturated for consistent results. Start with areas that require the most lift or are the darkest.
Avoid Scalp (if bleaching): When bleaching, try to avoid direct contact with the scalp to minimize irritation.
Processing Time:
Adhere to Instructions: Leave the mixture on for the processing time recommended by the hair colour product. This is crucial for achieving the desired colour and avoiding over-processing. For 30 volumes, processing times can vary but are typically between 20-45 minutes.
Monitor: Periodically check the hair’s progress during the processing time.
Rinsing and Aftercare:
Rinse Thoroughly: Once the processing time is complete, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
Shampoo and Condition: Follow with a colour-safe shampoo and conditioner to seal the cuticle and nourish the hair. L’Oréal Professionnel often has complementary post-colouring products.
FAQs
What is L’Oréal Oxydant Crème N. 2, 30 Vol (V034)?
This is a professional-grade cream developer containing 9% hydrogen peroxide (30 volume), designed for use with L’Oréal’s permanent hair color lines like Majirel, Blond Studio, and INOA . It activates color, provides gentle lift (up to 3 levels), and supports vibrant, long-lasting results
What makes “Crème N. 2” different from other developers?
Designed for professional salon use, not for at-home experiments
The creamy texture ensures better saturation and reduces drips compared to liquid developers .
Made with hydrating ingredients to protect hair integrity, resulting in softer, shinier strands after coloring
How much does it lift hair, and which hair types is it for?
30 Vol (9%) developer lifts up to 3 levels, suitable for moderate to advanced lightening—ideal for moving brunette tones toward blonde, enhancing highlights, or refreshing faded color
Commonly mixed with Majirel, INOA, or Blond Studio dyes
How do I mix and use it properly?
Standard professional mixing ratio: 1 part color : 1.5–2 parts developer (e.g., 60 g color + 90–120 g developer) .
Apply to dry, unwashed hair; develop for 30–35 minutes, then emulsify and rinse until the water runs clear
Follow with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner for best results .
Is it ammonia-free?
Yes—the Crème formula is ammonia-free, reducing odor and scalp irritation while gently lightening hair
Is this safe for all hair types and at-home use?
Ideally used only by professionals in salon settings
Not recommended for inexperienced users: improper developer use can cause unwanted color changes or hair damage.
People with sensitive skin or scalp should patch-test before use
What size and packaging does it come in?
Comes in a 1 L cream bottle, designated V034, compatible with L’Oréal’s pro dispensing pumps
Some users mention packaging inconsistencies (e.g., different cap types), but formula authenticity was maintained
How long does it stay effective, and how should it be stored?
Store it in a cool, ventilated area, away from heat or direct sunlight; do not exceed 50 °C per safety guidelines
Once opened, it’s best used soon; peroxide may degrade over months if poorly sealed, affecting potency.
Is it worth buying a 1 L bottle vs smaller sizes?
1 L is cost-effective for salons and heavy users—offers many applications.
For occasional or home users, a smaller size may be more practical to avoid waste or potency loss .
Where can I buy it and what is the price point?
Widely available via Amazon UK, eBay UK, Ubuy (Senegal/Guatemala), Desertcart India, Walmart, CareToBeauty US, and pro beauty suppliers
Typical prices range from €11 to £12, with retail price around $18–$25 USD depending on region and availability .
To conclude
The L’Oréal Oxydant Crème N. 2 – 30 Vol (V034) is a high-quality professional developer offering up to 3 levels of lift, moisture protection, and consistent color activation. It’s ideal for salon professionals using Majirel, INOA, or Blond Studio lines. For optimal results, follow mixing ratios carefully, adhere to develop and storage instructions, and inspect packaging on receipt. While the 1 L bottle is economical for regular use, casual users may prefer smaller formats. Choose your developer volume wisely to achieve the desired lightening while preserving hair health.
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