How much hair colour do I need for a full head?

For medium-length hair (shoulder length), one 60g tube of colour mixed with 60g of developer (1:1 ratio) is usually sufficient. Short hair needs about half a tube, while long or thick hair may need 1.5 to 2 tubes. Always mix enough to fully saturate all the hair for even colour results.

What is the standard mixing ratio for permanent hair colour?

The standard mixing ratio for permanent hair colour is 1:1 (equal parts colour to developer). High lift tints use 1:2, some semi-permanent colours use 1:1.5, and toners often use 1:2 or 1:3. Always check the manufacturer instructions as ratios can vary between brands.

Can I mix different hair colour shades together?

Yes, mixing shades is common practice. When mixing two shades, the resulting level is the average of both. For example, mixing a level 6 with a level 8 gives approximately a level 7. The total amount of colour (both shades combined) should match the developer amount for a 1:1 ratio.

What happens if I use too much or too little developer?

Too much developer dilutes the colour pigment, resulting in less deposit and coverage. Too little developer means the colour cannot fully develop and penetrate the cortex, leading to patchy or dark results. Always weigh your colour and developer using a scale for consistent ratios.

CutCalcs

Hair Colour Mix Calculator — Colour & Developer Quantities

Calculate precise hair colour and developer quantities based on hair length and mixing ratio.

Hair Length

Mixing Ratio

Check manufacturer instructions

Tube Size

Most tubes are 60g or 100g

Number of Shades

How many different colour shades

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates the total colour and developer quantities based on your hair length and chosen mixing ratio. The base amount is 60g of colour for medium-length hair, adjusted up or down for shorter or longer hair.

The formula

Colour amount (g) = Base amount (60g) x Length multiplier

Developer amount (g) = Colour amount x Developer ratio

Total mix = Colour + Developer

Short hair: 0.5x multiplier (approx 30g colour)
Medium hair: 1x multiplier (approx 60g colour)
Long hair: 1.5x multiplier (approx 90g colour)
Extra long hair: 2x multiplier (approx 120g colour)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always perform a strand test before chemical services.