* The nourishing cream (often labeled as a conditioner, after-color treatment, or similar) is designed to be used *after* the dyeing process. It's formulated to add moisture, shine, and help lock in the color, but it doesn't contain the necessary ingredients to open the hair cuticle and deposit the dye molecules.
* Developer is crucial for permanent and demi-permanent hair color to work. It contains hydrogen peroxide or another oxidizing agent. This is what:
* Opens the hair cuticle, allowing the dye molecules to penetrate.
* Lightens the natural hair pigment (in the case of permanent color).
* Activates the dye molecules, causing them to bond with the hair shaft.
Without the developer, the nourishing cream will essentially just sit on top of your hair. You might experience:
* Slight tint or residue: Depending on how pigmented the nourishing cream is, you *might* notice a very subtle tint, but this is highly unlikely and would wash out easily.
* Conditioning effect: Your hair will feel softer and more moisturized, similar to using a regular conditioner.
* No actual color change: You won't achieve any significant or lasting color transformation.
In short, using only the nourishing cream is like trying to paint a wall without primer or paint – it won't adhere or create any noticeable effect.