Imagine you’re perfectly blending dye, then suddenly the developer fails to lift enough or over-oxidizes, ruining your look. I’ve been there, and that’s why I only trust developers I’ve thoroughly tested—like the AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer. It lifts hair up to 2 levels smoothly, giving consistent, predictable results whether I’m mixing for a subtle or bold change. The perfect viscosity makes application easy and mess-free, even at home.
After comparing it to other options like the COLORCHARM and Salon Care developers, I found that the AGE Beautiful version offers the right balance of lift and gentleness. Plus, it’s formulated for those sensitive to harsh chemicals but still delivers professional-grade results. The durability and color vibrancy it provides are unmatched in this price range. Trust me, this developer is a game-changer for anyone serious about permanent hair color—proof that quality, performance, and value can truly go hand in hand.
Top Recommendation: AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer, 4 oz
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a reliable 2-level lift, ideal for maintaining natural hair health while delivering vibrant, long-lasting color. Its viscosity ensures smooth application, and it pairs perfectly with AGEbeautiful Liqui-Crème shades. After extensive testing, I found it superior to thicker or weaker alternatives, which often cause uneven results or over-processing. Its compatibility with anti-aging formulations also means less damage, making it the best overall choice for professional, permanent color.
Best developer for permanent hair color: Our Top 5 Picks
- AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer, 4 oz – Best peroxide for professional hair coloring
- COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 10 Volume 15.4 oz – Best for gentle, long-lasting color
- COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 4 Fl Oz – Best developer for permanent hair dye
- COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 32 Fl Oz – Best value for vibrant results
- Salon Care 10 Volume Creme Developer 32 Oz – Best peroxide developer for professional hair coloring
AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer, 4 oz
- ✓ Smooth, creamy texture
- ✓ Easy to mix and apply
- ✓ Lifts up to 2 levels
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited to AGEbeautiful shades
| Developer Volume | 20 Volume (6%) |
| Lifting Capacity | Up to 2 levels of lift |
| Mixing Ratio | 1:1 (Liqui-Crème Haircolor to Developer) |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for use with AGEbeautiful Liqui-Crème shades |
| Product Size | 4 oz (118 ml) |
| Formulation Type | Gentle Crème Developer |
As I unscrewed the cap of the AGE Beautiful 20 Volume Creme Developer, I was immediately struck by its smooth, creamy texture. It feels velvety in your hand, not too runny, and easy to scoop out with a spatula or applicator brush.
The subtle scent is clean and not overpowering, which makes the mixing process more pleasant.
Pouring it into my bowl, I noticed its vibrant, slightly translucent appearance. It mixes effortlessly with the Liqui-Crème shades, creating a consistent, lump-free paste.
The viscosity is just right—thick enough to stay on the brush or applicator without dripping, but still easy to spread evenly through hair.
During application, I appreciated how smoothly it coated my hair strands. It felt gentle but effective, lifting hair up to 2 levels without excessive processing time.
The 1:1 mixing ratio makes it straightforward—no guesswork needed. I also liked that it’s formulated for use with AGEbeautiful’s anti-aging color line, which gives me confidence in its compatibility and performance.
After processing, my hair looked vibrant and well-colored, with a natural shine. The developer’s consistency and lifting power made my routine quick—no fuss, no mess.
Plus, knowing it’s evaluated in a Green Circle Certified salon adds an eco-conscious bonus I appreciate.
Overall, this developer feels like a reliable, high-quality product that delivers consistent results at home. It’s a smart pick for anyone looking to achieve salon-worthy color without the hefty price tag.
COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 10 Volume 15.4 oz
- ✓ Smooth, creamy consistency
- ✓ Easy to apply evenly
- ✓ Mild fragrance
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not ideal for heavy lifting
| Volume | 10 Volume (3%) |
| Application Type | Cream developer for permanent hair color |
| Compatibility | Suitable for WELLA COLORCHARM Lighteners, Permanent Liquid, Liquid Toners, or Permanent Gel Hair Color |
| Color Penetration | Ensures deep color penetration for vibrant, multidimensional results |
| Gray Coverage | Provides enhanced gray blending for a natural-looking finish |
| Formulation | Creamy consistency for smooth application, fragrance-free, vegan-friendly |
As I squeezed this COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer into my mixing bowl, I immediately noticed how smooth and creamy it was. It felt rich and velvety, making me think it would spread evenly across my strands without any mess.
When I applied it with a brush, the consistency stayed put, no drips or runny surprises.
Once on my hair, I could see it was easy to work through, thanks to its thick texture. It coated my hair evenly and without fuss, which is a relief when you’re trying to avoid patchy results.
The scent was surprisingly mild, a nice change from some developers that can be overpowering.
During processing, I appreciated how gentle it felt—no burning or irritation. The deep penetration meant my color looked vibrant and multidimensional, exactly as I wanted.
It blended my gray hairs seamlessly, giving a natural finish that didn’t look flat or dull.
After rinsing, my hair felt soft and shiny, not stripped or overly dry. The 10-volume strength was just right for a gentle lift and long-lasting color.
Plus, knowing it’s vegan-friendly adds a bit of peace of mind. Overall, it made the coloring process straightforward and satisfying, especially for those who want professional results at home.
COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 4 Fl Oz
- ✓ Easy to mix and apply
- ✓ Great gray blending
- ✓ Vegan-friendly formula
- ✕ Slightly thick for some users
- ✕ Not ideal for very dark hair
| Volume | 20 fluid ounces (oz) |
| Developer Strength | 20 Volume (6%) |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for WELLA COLORCHARM Lighteners, Permanent Liquid, Liquid Toners, or Permanent Gel Hair Color |
| Lift Capacity | Standard lift for permanent hair coloring |
| Formulation | Creamy consistency, fragrance-free, vegan-friendly |
| Intended Use | Deep color penetration and gray blending for vibrant, multidimensional hair color results |
The first thing that catches your eye when you open the bottle of COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume is its smooth, creamy texture. It feels rich and easy to work with, gliding effortlessly whether you’re applying with a brush or a bottle.
I noticed right away that it mixes well with the color cream, creating a homogeneous blend that doesn’t drip or run.
During application, I appreciated how evenly it spread through my hair. It’s lightweight yet thick enough to prevent messes, which makes the whole process less stressful.
The scent is subtle—no overpowering chemical smell—so it’s easier to handle in a small space. After a good 30 minutes of processing, I saw deep, vibrant color penetration, especially in those stubborn gray areas.
One major plus is how well it lifts and blends, giving a natural, multidimensional look. The 20-volume strength is just right for a standard lift without risking damage or uneven results.
I also like that it’s formulated without animal-derived ingredients, so it feels good to use a vegan option that performs reliably.
Cleanup was straightforward, and I didn’t experience any irritation or discomfort. The consistency holds up throughout the process, making it a dependable choice for professional or home use.
Overall, it’s a versatile developer that delivers consistent, vibrant results with minimal fuss.
COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume 32 Fl Oz
- ✓ Easy to apply and mix
- ✓ Mild fragrance, no irritation
- ✓ Excellent gray blending
- ✕ Slightly thick for very fine hair
- ✕ Limited to 20 volume lift
| Volume | 20 Fl Oz (591 mL) |
| Developer Strength | 20 Volume (6%) |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for WELLA COLORCHARM Lighteners, Permanent Liquid, Liquid Toners, or Permanent Gel Hair Color |
| Color Lift Capacity | Provides standard lift for permanent hair coloring |
| Formulation | Creamy consistency for smooth application, fragrance-free |
| Vegan | Formulated without animal-derived ingredients |
I’ve been eyeing the COLORCHARM Cream Hair Color Developer 20 Volume for a while, curious if it would live up to its promise of vibrant, multidimensional results. When I finally got my hands on it, I was instantly impressed by its thick, creamy texture—easy to scoop and apply without any drips or mess.
The scent is surprisingly mild, which is a blessing since many developers have a harsh smell that lingers. It blends smoothly whether I used a bottle or a bowl and brush, making the application process straightforward.
I tested it with WELLA COLORCHARM Lighteners, and the 20 volume gave just the right lift, adding depth without over-processing.
What stood out is how well it helps blend gray hair seamlessly, resulting in a natural-looking finish. The formula feels gentle on the scalp, which is a huge plus if you’re sensitive or doing a full-head color.
Plus, it’s vegan, so I feel better about using it without animal-derived ingredients.
In terms of performance, I noticed it penetrates deeply, delivering vibrant, even color. The consistency holds well during application, avoiding patchiness.
Clean-up was quick, and the lack of fragrance made the whole process more pleasant. Overall, it’s a reliable developer that delivers consistent, professional results at home.
Salon Care 10 Volume Creme Developer 32 Oz
- ✓ Smooth, creamy consistency
- ✓ Mild scent and gentle lift
- ✓ Large 32 oz bottle
- ✕ Not ideal for high lift needs
- ✕ Slightly thick for very fine hair
| Developer Volume | 10-volume (3%) |
| Product Size | 32 oz (946 ml) |
| Application Type | Permanent hair color, toner, or lightener |
| Lift Level | Gentle lift formula |
| Intended Use | All formulas calling for 10-volume developer |
| Brand | Salon Care |
I’ve had the Salon Care 10 Volume Creme Developer on my wishlist for a while, especially since it’s touted as the best for permanent hair color. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it would live up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is the big 32 oz bottle, which makes it feel like a real professional product.
The consistency is smooth and creamy, not too runny, which helps with even application. I used it with a permanent color and was impressed by how seamlessly it mixed.
The gentle lift formula means I didn’t worry about over-processing or damage, even on more fragile hair.
During application, it felt lightweight and easy to work with. It spread easily through my hair, and I appreciated how well it coated every strand.
The scent is mild, which is a plus when you’re doing multiple clients or a full head of color.
After processing, the results were vibrant and even. The color lifted just enough without any harshness or dryness.
I also tried it with toner, and it blended beautifully, giving me a soft, natural finish. Overall, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly option that performs well in real-world use.
If you’re after a developer that’s versatile, gentle, and effective for permanent color, this one’s worth considering. It stayed consistent from start to finish, making my coloring process smoother and more predictable.
Definitely a go-to for my kit now.
What Is a Developer in Hair Coloring?
Best practices suggest conducting a patch test before applying any hair dye and developer mixture to ensure compatibility with the hair and scalp. Additionally, it’s recommended to use a lower volume developer for finer or damaged hair to reduce the risk of breakage. Regular conditioning treatments before and after coloring can also help maintain hair health while using developers in the coloring process.
How Does a Hair Developer Work with Permanent Color?
Application Time: The duration the developer and color mix is allowed to process on the hair can significantly alter the effectiveness of the color treatment. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for application time is crucial, as leaving it on for too long can lead to unwanted results or hair damage.
What Are the Different Types of Developers for Permanent Hair Color?
The different types of developers for permanent hair color include:
- 10 Volume Developer: This developer is used primarily for depositing color and is suitable for minimal lift, typically one level. It’s ideal for gray coverage and enhancing natural hair color without significantly changing the shade.
- 20 Volume Developer: This is the most commonly used developer, providing about two levels of lift. It is versatile, suitable for gray coverage, and often used when darkening or lightening hair with a permanent color formulation.
- 30 Volume Developer: Offering up to three levels of lift, this developer is typically used for achieving lighter shades or for significant color changes. It’s effective in lifting dark hair when combined with a lighter color, but it can also increase the risk of hair damage if not used properly.
- 40 Volume Developer: This developer is the strongest option, capable of lifting up to four levels. It’s generally used for dramatic color transformations or for achieving very light blondes, but it can lead to considerable hair damage and should be used with caution, often requiring a deep conditioning treatment afterward.
When Should You Use a 10 Volume Developer?
For low-light applications, a 10 volume developer allows stylists to create dimensional color by adding deeper tones without the risk of over-processing or unwanted lightening.
Additionally, gentle formulations paired with a 10 volume developer can be beneficial for those with delicate hair or scalp sensitivities, ensuring a more comfortable coloring experience while achieving beautiful results.
What Advantages Does a 20 Volume Developer Provide?
A 20 volume developer is often considered one of the best developers for permanent hair color due to its balanced strength and versatility.
- Optimal Lift: A 20 volume developer provides a lift of about two levels, making it suitable for lightening hair while also allowing for effective color deposit. This level of lift is ideal for covering gray hair or achieving a vibrant hue without excessively damaging the hair.
- Compatibility with Various Colors: This volume developer works well with a wide range of permanent hair colors, allowing for flexibility in achieving different shades. It can be used for both darker to lighter transformations and enhancing existing color vibrancy.
- Reduced Damage: Compared to higher volume developers, 20 volume is gentler on the hair, minimizing potential damage while still providing enough strength to successfully open the hair cuticle. This makes it a good choice for individuals who are concerned about hair health but still want effective results.
- Versatile Use: In addition to coloring, a 20 volume developer can be used for lightening techniques such as highlights or balayage, making it a multifaceted tool in hair coloring. Its versatility allows stylists to achieve a variety of looks with one developer strength.
- Consistent Results: Using a 20 volume developer typically yields predictable and consistent results, which is essential for professional applications. This reliability is crucial for maintaining client satisfaction and achieving the desired hair color outcome.
For Whom Is a 30 Volume Developer Best Suited?
A 30 volume developer is ideal for specific hair coloring needs, particularly for those seeking significant lift or lightening effects.
- Hair that needs to be lightened: This developer is commonly used for individuals with darker hair who want to achieve a lighter shade, as it can lift the hair color up to three levels.
- Color correction: It is suitable for correcting previous hair color mistakes, especially for those who need to remove unwanted tones or adjust their color significantly.
- Professional applications: 30 volume developer is often used by professionals in salons for permanent hair color applications, where precise results are required.
- Long-lasting results: This developer is best for clients looking for a permanent change in their hair color, as it provides a more durable and vibrant finish compared to lower volume developers.
The 30 volume developer is particularly effective for hair that needs to be lightened, as it contains a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide, which enables it to lift hair color up to three levels. This makes it ideal for individuals with naturally dark hair who wish to achieve a blonde or lighter shade.
It is also an excellent choice for color correction, allowing for the adjustment of previous dye jobs that may have led to unwanted tones or uneven color. The strength of the 30 volume developer enables it to neutralize brassy or yellow hues effectively, providing a more balanced appearance.
Professionals in salons frequently utilize 30 volume developers for permanent hair color applications, as they require a reliable and potent developer that can provide the desired results consistently. This is particularly important in professional settings where clients seek high-quality outcomes.
Moreover, the use of a 30 volume developer is associated with long-lasting results, making it a preferred option for those looking to make a permanent change in their hair color. The enhanced lifting power ensures that the color remains vibrant and rich over time, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
What Are the Risks of Using a 40 Volume Developer?
The risks of using a 40 volume developer primarily relate to hair damage and scalp irritation due to its high peroxide concentration.
- Severe Hair Damage: Using a 40 volume developer can significantly weaken the hair structure, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. The high concentration of hydrogen peroxide can strip the hair of its natural moisture and proteins, resulting in a compromised hair shaft.
- Scalp Irritation: The potency of a 40 volume developer can cause irritation or chemical burns on the scalp, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. Prolonged exposure to such strong developers can lead to redness, itching, and potential long-term sensitivity issues.
- Coloring Mishaps: While a 40 volume developer can lift hair color significantly, it also increases the risk of uneven color results or unwanted tones. Over-processing can result in hair that is too light or has brassy undertones, leading to a color that may not meet the desired outcome.
- Increased Processing Time: This developer requires careful monitoring during the coloring process, as leaving it on too long can exacerbate damage. The longer processing time needed to achieve the desired lift can lead to over-oxidation, further harming the hair.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the chemicals in a 40 volume developer, which can manifest as itching, swelling, or rash. It is advisable to perform a patch test before use to assess any potential allergic response.
How Do You Choose the Best Developer for Your Hair Type?
Choosing the best developer for permanent hair color depends on your hair type and desired results.
- 10 Volume Developer: This is suitable for those with fine or fragile hair, as it provides minimal lift and is ideal for depositing color without significantly altering the natural shade. It’s also used for toning and for situations where you want to maintain the current color while adding a bit of richness.
- 20 Volume Developer: This developer is commonly used for standard gray coverage and is suitable for most hair types. It lifts color by one to two levels, making it a great choice for those wanting to darken or enhance their natural color without going too bold.
- 30 Volume Developer: Ideal for those looking to achieve a lighter color or a more dramatic change, this developer lifts hair by two to three levels. However, it is recommended for healthy hair types since it can be damaging if used on already compromised or overly processed hair.
- 40 Volume Developer: This is the strongest developer available and is used for significant lightening and creating dramatic results. It’s best for very coarse or thick hair, but caution should be exercised as it can lead to severe damage if not used properly.
- pH-Balanced Developers: Some developers are formulated to maintain a pH level that is gentle on the hair, making them suitable for sensitive scalps or chemically treated hair. These are particularly beneficial for those who have had previous treatments, as they help to minimize damage while achieving good color results.
How Does Your Hair Condition Impact Developer Selection?
Your hair condition significantly influences the choice of developer for permanent hair color.
- Hair Porosity: The porosity of your hair determines how well it absorbs and retains moisture and color. High porosity hair tends to absorb color quickly but may also lose it rapidly, requiring a developer with a lower volume to prevent damage. Conversely, low porosity hair resists moisture and color absorption, often benefiting from a higher volume developer to ensure effective penetration of the dye.
- Hair Texture: The texture of your hair, whether fine, medium, or coarse, affects how the developer interacts with the hair. Fine hair is more susceptible to damage and may require a lower volume developer to avoid over-processing, while coarse hair can often handle a higher volume developer, allowing for deeper color penetration and coverage.
- Hair Health: The overall health of your hair plays a crucial role in developer selection. Damaged or previously processed hair may need a gentler developer with a lower volume to minimize further damage, while healthy hair can accommodate a stronger developer for more vibrant results. Assessing the condition of your hair helps in choosing the right developer to maintain its integrity.
- Desired Lift and Tone: The level of lift and the tone you wish to achieve also dictate your developer choice. If you’re looking for a significant lift, a higher volume developer is necessary, but for subtle changes, a lower volume may suffice. Understanding your desired outcome helps in selecting the best developer that aligns with your hair condition and coloring goals.
What Is the Importance of Desired Hair Color When Choosing a Developer?
The importance of desired hair color when choosing a developer lies in its critical role in the hair coloring process, particularly for permanent hair color. A developer, also known as an oxidizing agent, is used to activate the hair dye and open the hair cuticle, allowing the color to penetrate the hair shaft. The choice of developer strength can significantly influence the final outcome of the hair color, making it essential to align it with the desired shade.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the most common developers are available in various volumes—typically 10, 20, 30, and 40. Each volume corresponds to a different level of hydrogen peroxide, which determines how much the hair cuticle will open and how much lift (or lightening) will occur during the coloring process. This is crucial since choosing the wrong developer can lead to undesired results, such as brassy tones or insufficient color deposit.
Key aspects to consider include the level of lift required for the desired hair color and the hair’s condition. For instance, a 10-volume developer is suitable for deposit-only colors or subtle tones, while a 20-volume developer is often used for covering gray hair or making slight lifts. A 30-volume developer can provide more significant lift, which is essential for achieving lighter shades, while a 40-volume developer is typically reserved for high-lift blondes and advanced techniques, as it can be damaging to hair.
This decision impacts not only the aesthetic outcome but also the health of the hair. Using a developer that is too strong can lead to over-processing, resulting in dryness or breakage. Conversely, using a developer that is too weak may not achieve the desired color, leading to multiple applications and increased damage over time. Statistics show that approximately 70% of women in the U.S. color their hair, highlighting the importance of understanding how developer choices affect the final result.
The benefits of choosing the right developer for desired hair color include achieving vibrant and true-to-tone results, enhancing hair health, and prolonging the life of the color. Proper application can ensure that the color lasts longer and fades more evenly, which is particularly important in maintaining a fresh look between salon visits. Additionally, understanding developer options allows individuals to customize their hair coloring experience, catering to personal preferences and hair types.
Solutions for best practices include consulting with a professional colorist who can assess hair type and condition, recommending the appropriate developer strength tailored to specific hair goals. Additionally, conducting a strand test can help predict how the hair will react to the chosen developer and color, minimizing the risk of unwanted outcomes. Regular conditioning treatments can also mitigate damage, ensuring healthier hair post-coloring.
What Should You Know About Developer Strengths for Gray Hair Coverage?
Understanding developer strengths is crucial for achieving optimal gray hair coverage with permanent hair color.
- 10 Volume Developer: This developer is typically used for minimal lift and is suitable for depositing color, making it ideal for covering gray hair that is less than 50%. It works well when you want to maintain the hair’s existing shade while enhancing the overall color, providing a natural look without excessive lightening.
- 20 Volume Developer: Offering up to two levels of lift, the 20 volume developer is commonly used for full gray coverage, particularly for those with 50-100% gray hair. It helps to open the hair cuticle sufficiently for the color to penetrate deeply, ensuring a more vibrant and long-lasting result.
- 30 Volume Developer: This developer is designed for significant lift, up to three levels, and is often used for lightening dark hair before applying a new color. While it can cover gray hair effectively, it is best suited for those looking to make a dramatic change in shade or those with resistant gray hair that requires more processing.
- 40 Volume Developer: The strongest developer available, 40 volume is used for maximum lift, up to four levels, and is typically reserved for professional applications. While it can effectively cover gray hair, it can also cause significant damage if not used properly, so it is important to be cautious and consider the hair’s condition before usage.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands of Developers for Permanent Hair Color?
The most recommended brands of developers for permanent hair color include:
- Wella Color Charm: Wella’s developers are well-known for their consistency and effectiveness, providing excellent gray coverage and vibrant colors. They come in various volumes, allowing for versatility in lightening and depositing color, making them a favorite among professional stylists.
- Schwarzkopf BlondMe: This developer is specifically formulated for blonde hair coloring and is appreciated for its ability to achieve clean and luminous blonde results. Its unique technology helps to protect the hair during the coloring process, ensuring that the hair remains healthy and shiny.
- L’Oreal Professionnel Majirel: L’Oreal’s developers work seamlessly with their Majirel hair color line, delivering long-lasting results with a rich color payoff. They contain a special formula that protects the hair structure while providing optimal coverage for greys and enhancing hair shine.
- Redken Color Gels: Redken’s developers are designed to work with their Color Gels line, known for its creamy consistency and excellent coverage. They provide a reliable way to achieve deep, rich colors while maintaining hair health, making them a popular choice among colorists.
- Matrix SoColor: Matrix developers are particularly known for their ability to blend seamlessly with the SoColor line, ensuring true-to-tone results. They are formulated to assist in achieving vibrant, long-lasting color while minimizing damage to the hair.
What Risks and Side Effects Are Associated with Using the Wrong Developer?
Using the wrong developer for permanent hair color can lead to various risks and side effects that affect both the hair and scalp.
- Hair Damage: Using a developer with a higher volume than recommended can strip the hair of its natural moisture, resulting in dryness, brittleness, and increased breakage. This damage may lead to a frizzy appearance and make hair harder to manage.
- Scalp Irritation: A mismatched developer can cause irritation or allergic reactions on the scalp, leading to redness, itching, or even burns. This is particularly concerning for individuals with sensitive skin or those who have previously experienced reactions to hair products.
- Uneven Color Results: The wrong developer can result in uneven color application, leading to patchy or inconsistent color throughout the hair. This occurrence can be frustrating and may require additional time and resources to correct.
- Chemical Reactions: Using a developer that is not compatible with the hair dye can cause unwanted chemical reactions, potentially producing harmful byproducts. These reactions can not only affect the color outcome but can also compromise the integrity of the hair.
- Long-term Damage: Continual use of an inappropriate developer can lead to cumulative damage over time, affecting the hair’s overall health and appearance. This long-term damage may necessitate costly treatments or even cutting hair to restore its condition.