The use of bleaching substances is quite common among people with colored hair. Hair dyeing and coloring have been a trend that has gone on for ages. Bleaching is one of the ways to lift the hair color to the next level. However, the process is not as smooth and easy as it seems. Bleaching can cause severe hair damage if not done correctly. In this article, we will discuss some tips to help you bleach your hair without damaging it. Before we delve into the details, let’s understand the process of bleaching.
What is Hair Bleaching?
Hair bleaching is the process of removing color from hair strands. It involves using chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide and ammonia to strip the natural pigment from hair strands. The bleaching products work to lift the cuticle to bring out melanin, the pigment responsible for the hair’s natural color. Bleaching is useful when you want to color your hair a lighter shade than your natural hair color.
Tips to Bleach Hair Without Damage
1. Prepare Your Hair
Before you bleach your hair, you need to prepare it for the process. You should avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours before bleaching. Wash the hair after the process with a mild shampoo and cold water. When you wash your hair, your hair cuticles will slightly open, and stripping your hair of color could harm your strands.
2. Protect Your Scalp
Your scalp is susceptible to burns and irritation from bleach. When applying the bleach to your hair, ensure you do not touch the scalp. The bleach should only make contact with your hair. Also, consider applying petroleum jelly around your scalp to protect your skin from bleach’s harsh effects.
3. Avoid Overlapping
When applying bleach to your hair, avoid overlapping the already processed hair. Overlapping causes a double processing effect, which increases the risk of hair damage. To avoid overlapping, use a brush and apply the bleach gradually to the hair, starting from the tips to the roots.
4. Don’t Bleach Over Previously Colored Hair
If your hair is already colored, avoid bleaching over previously bleached strands, especially if they are damaged. Instead, apply bleach to new hair growth to avoid hair damage. Also, avoid applying bleach to the hair’s ends, which are the oldest and most damaged part.
5. Time Your Bleaching Process Carefully
Timing is an essential factor when it comes to bleaching. Leaving bleach for too long on your hair can cause severe hair damage. Likewise, if you rinse out the bleach before the required duration, you might not get the desired result. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to get the best results.
6. Use a Lower Volume Developer
A higher volume developer may produce quicker results, but it can also cause extreme hair damage. When bleaching, use a lower volume developer, such as 20, to minimize hair damage. The lower the volume, the less damaging the bleach will be.
7. Do a Strand Test
A strand test helps you determine how your hair will react to bleaching products. You can use this test to check how long you should leave the bleach on your hair without damaging it. Apply bleach to a small section of hair and monitor the progress. You can then adjust your timing accordingly.
8. Moisturize Your Hair
Bleaching removes the natural oils and moisture from hair, causing it to become dry and brittle. After bleaching, it’s essential to moisturize your hair. Use a deep conditioning treatment or a hair mask to help rebuild and hydrate your hair.
9. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling tools such as blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons can further damage your hair after bleaching. Avoid using them during the first few weeks after bleaching to allow your hair time to recover. Also, wait for 72 hours before washing your hair again to avoid further damage.
10. Seek Professional Help
If you’re not comfortable with home bleaching or you have sensitive scalp or hair, it’s best to seek professional help. A professional hair colorist will have the skills and expertise needed to bleach your hair without causing damage.
Conclusion
Bleaching your hair can be a daunting process, but by following the above tips, you can achieve a desirable result without causing significant hair damage. Always use high-quality bleach and follow the instructions carefully. Remember that healthy hair is beautiful hair, so take the time to protect and nourish it to achieve the perfect results.
Common Questions and Answers About Hair Bleaching
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Q: How long should I wait to bleach my hair again?
A: It’s advisable to wait at least four weeks before bleaching your hair again. This will allow your hair to recover and return to its natural ph levels. -
Q: Can I bleach my hair if it’s already damaged?
A: Bleaching already damaged hair can make the condition worse. It’s advisable to avoid bleaching hair that is already damaged or brittle to prevent breakage. -
Q: Why does hair turn brassy after bleaching?
A: Hair can turn brassy because of the presence of red pigments in the hair. These pigments are not easily removed with bleach. To avoid brassiness, use a toner after bleaching. -
Q: Can I bleach my hair after using henna?
A: Henna can react negatively with bleach, causing hair damage. It’s advisable to avoid bleaching your hair after using henna.
References:
- Bleaching hair without damage – Tips and tricks (2021). Retrieved from https://lovehairstyles.com/how-to-bleach-hair-without-damage/
- Bleached hair care: what to do before and after (2021). Retrieved from https://www.schwarzkopf-professionalusa.com/en/home/hair-color/bleached-hair-care.html
- How to bleach hair without damage: your ultimate guide (2021). Retrieved from https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/how-to-bleach-hair