Bleaching your hair at home can be a thrilling way to switch up your look without breaking the bank. But let’s be real, the process can seem a bit intimidating if you’ve never done it before. Don’t stress though, because with the right tools, techniques, and a dash of confidence, you can totally rock that blonde bombshell vibe!
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about bleaching your hair at home. We’ll cover what hair bleaching actually is, a step-by-step guide on how to do it safely, and the potential risks involved. Plus, we’ll dish out some tips on maintaining your newly bleached locks and explore a few alternatives if you’re not quite ready to take the plunge.
So, whether you’re dreaming of a platinum blonde mane or just want to lighten up a few shades, keep reading. We’ve got you covered with all the deets to help you achieve the perfect blonde do from the comfort of your own bathroom. Get ready to unleash your inner blonde goddess!
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What is Hair Bleaching
Hair bleaching is a chemical process that strips your natural hair color, allowing you to go lighter or create a blank canvas for vibrant hues. The active ingredient in bleach is usually hydrogen peroxide, which penetrates your hair shaft and dissolves the melanin pigments responsible for your hair’s color.
How Does Hair Bleaching Work?
When you apply bleach to your hair, the hydrogen peroxide breaks through the cuticle (the outer layer of your hair) and oxidizes the melanin in your cortex (the inner layer). This process essentially “erases” your natural color, leaving you with lighter hair. The longer you leave the bleach on, the more melanin is removed, resulting in a lighter shade.
Levels of Bleaching
Hair color is measured on a scale from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde). Most women fall somewhere between a level 4 (dark brown) and 7 (dark blonde). If your goal is a pale, platinum blonde, you’ll need to bleach your hair to a level 9 or 10, which can be a challenging and damaging process, especially if you’re starting with darker hair.
The Importance of Developer
In addition to bleach powder, you’ll need a developer, which is a creamy product that contains hydrogen peroxide. Developers come in different volumes (strengths), typically ranging from 10 to 40. The higher the volume, the more lift you’ll get, but also the more damage you risk. “For at-home bleaching, I recommend using a 20 volume developer,” says celebrity colorist Rachel Bodt. “It’s strong enough to lighten your hair, but gentle enough to minimize damage.”
How to Bleach Your Hair
Ready to take the plunge and go blonde? Bleaching your hair at home can be a thrilling way to switch up your look, but it’s crucial to do it right to avoid a hair disaster. Let’s break down the steps to achieving that perfect blonde ‘do without wrecking your locks.
Gather Your Supplies
First things first, you’ll need to stock up on the essentials:
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- Bleach powder
- Developer (20 vol for dark blonde/light brown hair, 30-40 vol for darker hair)
- Toner
- Mixing bowl and brush
- Gloves
- Old towel or cape
- Coconut oil (optional but recommended)
Celebrity colorist Rachel Bodt suggests using a 20 volume developer for at-home bleaching to minimize damage while still getting good lift.
Prep Your Hair
Before you even think about mixing that bleach, make sure your hair is in good condition. If it’s feeling dry or damaged, give it some TLC with deep conditioning treatments in the weeks leading up to your bleach sesh.
On bleaching day, skip the shampoo and apply coconut oil from root to tip. This will help protect your strands from the harsh chemicals. Divide your hair into four sections and clip them up.
Mix It Up
Time to get mixing! Follow the instructions on your bleach kit, but generally, you’ll want to mix 1 part bleach powder with 2 parts developer in your bowl. Aim for a consistency that’s not too runny but not too thick – think pancake batter.
Apply the Bleach
Starting with the back sections, apply the bleach mixture about an inch away from your scalp. Work the bleach down to the ends, making sure every strand is saturated. Once you’ve done the back, move to the front sections.
Tip: If your hair is super dark, you may want to wait 20 minutes before applying bleach to your roots to avoid hot roots (when your roots end up lighter than the rest of your hair).
Process and Rinse
Cover your hair with a plastic cap and let the bleach work its magic. Check your hair every 10 minutes to see how it’s progressing. Don’t leave the bleach on for more than 45 minutes, even if you haven’t reached your desired shade – it’s not worth the damage.
Once time’s up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Shampoo and condition with a purple toning product to neutralize any brassiness.
Tone and Maintain
If your hair is looking a little yellow or orange, don’t panic! That’s where toner comes in. Choose a toner that complements your desired shade (pearl for silvery blondes, beige for more natural) and apply it according to the instructions.
To keep your blonde looking fresh, incorporate a purple shampoo into your routine and do weekly deep conditioning masks. Avoid heat styling when possible and get regular trims to keep your ends healthy.
What are the Risks of Bleaching Your Hair at Home
Bleaching your hair at home may seem like a budget-friendly alternative to the salon, but it comes with some serious risks. Before you reach for that box of bleach, let’s dive into the potential dangers of DIY hair lightening.
Chemical Burns and Scalp Irritation
One of the biggest risks of at-home bleaching is chemical burns and scalp irritation. Bleach contains harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, which can wreak havoc on your delicate scalp skin. “If left on for too long or applied incorrectly, bleach can cause painful burns, scabbing, and even hair loss,” warns celebrity colorist Rachel Bodt.
Uneven Results and Brassiness
Unless you’re a trained professional, achieving even, consistent results with at-home bleaching is nearly impossible. You might end up with patchy, orange-y hair that’s far from the cool, icy blonde you were dreaming of. “Bleach is incredibly strong and tricky to work with,” says Bodt. “It’s so easy to over-process your hair or miss spots, leading to an uneven, brassy mess.”
Extreme Dryness and Breakage
Bleach strips your hair of its natural oils and proteins, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. If your hair is already damaged or color-treated, bleaching it at home can push it over the edge into straw-like territory. “I’ve seen so many women come into the salon with fried, gummy hair after attempting to bleach it themselves,” shares Bodt. “In some cases, the damage is so severe that we have to chop it all off and start fresh.”
Unpredictable Color Results
Box dyes and at-home bleaching kits are one-size-fits-all formulas that don’t take your individual hair color, texture, or porosity into account. This means you could end up with a totally different shade than what’s on the box – think green, gray, or even pink. “There are so many factors that go into formulating the perfect bleach mixture,” explains Bodt. “That’s why it’s always best to leave it to the professionals who can assess your hair and customize the formula.”
Increased Risk of Allergic Reactions
At-home bleaching increases your risk of developing an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the product, especially if you don’t do a patch test first. Symptoms can range from mild itching and redness to severe swelling, blistering, and difficulty breathing. “If you’ve never bleached your hair before, it’s crucial to do a patch test 48 hours before applying the product to your whole head,” advises Bodt. “And if you experience any unusual symptoms, rinse immediately and seek medical attention.”
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How to Maintain Bleached Hair
Congrats, you’ve taken the plunge and bleached your hair! But now comes the tricky part – keeping those blonde locks looking fab without turning into a straw-like mess. Don’t stress though, because with the right products and a little extra TLC, you can maintain your bleached ‘do and keep it looking salon-fresh.
Use a Bond Builder
One of the biggest concerns with bleaching is that it can damage the hair’s structural bonds, leading to breakage and split ends. That’s where bond builders come in – they penetrate deep to repair and strengthen those bonds. Celebrity colorist Rachel Bodt swears by bond builders for her bleached-blonde clients. “I always recommend using a bond builder like Olaplex or K18 once a week to keep the hair strong and healthy,” she says.
Swap Your Shampoo
Sulfates? More like sul-fates! These harsh detergents can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Opt for a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo that will gently cleanse without stripping. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and botanical oils to keep your strands soft and shiny.
Don’t Skip the Conditioner
Bleached hair is thirsty hair, so quench its thirst with a rich, nourishing conditioner. Apply it from mid-lengths to ends, focusing on the areas that tend to get the driest. For an extra dose of hydration, try using a deep conditioning mask once a week. Pro tip: apply your mask before shampooing to really let it soak in.
Tone It Up
Brassiness is the bane of every blonde’s existence, but toning shampoos and masks can help keep those yellow and orange tones at bay. Look for purple or blue-tinted products, which work to neutralize brassiness and keep your blonde bright. Just don’t overdo it – using a toning product too often can actually turn your hair purple!
Protect Your Strands
Heat styling and sun exposure can wreak havoc on bleached hair, so it’s crucial to protect your strands. Always use a heat protectant spray before blow drying or using hot tools, and try to air dry whenever possible. When you’re out in the sun, spritz on a UV protectant spray or wear a cute hat to shield your hair from damaging rays.
Trim Regularly
Split ends are a fact of life for bleached hair, but regular trims can help keep them under control. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to snip off any damaged ends and keep your hair looking healthy. Plus, it’s a great excuse to try out a fresh new style!
With a little extra love and attention, you can keep your bleached hair looking gorgeous for months to come. Just remember to be patient – healthy hair takes time, but it’s so worth it in the end!
Some Alternatives to Bleaching Hair
If you’re craving a hair color change but want to avoid the damage that comes with bleaching, don’t worry – there are plenty of gentler alternatives that can still give you a fresh new look. Let’s explore some options that will let you switch up your style without frying your strands.
Highlights or Lowlights
One way to add dimension and interest to your hair without going full-on blonde is to opt for highlights or lowlights. This technique involves painting select strands of hair with a lightener or darker color, creating a subtle, sun-kissed effect. “Highlights and lowlights are a great way to add depth and movement to your hair without the commitment of a full color change,” says celebrity colorist Rachel Bodt.
Glosses or Toners
If you’re happy with your current color but want to enhance shine and neutralize any brassiness, a gloss or toner is your best friend. These semi-permanent treatments deposit a sheer layer of color onto your hair, refreshing your existing shade and adding mega-watt shine. Plus, they’re way less damaging than traditional dye jobs.
Henna
For a natural, chemical-free color boost, give henna a try. This plant-based dye has been used for centuries to impart a rich, reddish hue to hair. It’s a great option for those with sensitive scalps or anyone looking to avoid harsh chemicals. Just keep in mind that henna can be a bit messy and time-consuming to apply, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Color Depositing Conditioners
Want to experiment with a fun, trendy shade without the long-term commitment? Color depositing conditioners are the way to go. These tinted treatments add a temporary pop of color to your hair that fades out over time. From pastel pink to bold blue, there’s a shade for every mood. Pro tip: start with a lighter color and work your way up to avoid any surprises!
Embrace Your Natural Color
Sometimes, the best way to switch up your look is to simply embrace what you’ve got. If you’ve been coloring your hair for years, consider giving your natural shade a chance to shine. Not only will your hair thank you for the break from chemicals, but you might just discover a newfound appreciation for your natural hue.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to hair color. The key is to find what works best for you and your lifestyle. Whether you opt for subtle highlights or a bold new shade, the most important thing is to have fun and rock your new look with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some alternatives to bleaching hair that won’t cause as much damage?
A: Some gentler alternatives to bleaching include highlights or lowlights, glosses or toners, henna, color depositing conditioners, and simply embracing your natural hair color.
Q: How do highlights and lowlights work?
A: Highlights and lowlights involve painting select strands of hair with a lightener or darker color, creating a subtle, dimensional effect without a full color change.
Q: What are the benefits of using a gloss or toner?
A: Glosses and toners are semi-permanent treatments that deposit a sheer layer of color onto your hair, refreshing your existing shade, adding shine, and neutralizing brassiness.
Q: Is henna a good option for coloring hair?
A: Henna is a plant-based, chemical-free dye that can impart a rich, reddish hue to hair. It’s a great natural option for those with sensitive scalps or looking to avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: How long does the color from color depositing conditioners last?
A: Color depositing conditioners add a temporary pop of color to your hair that gradually fades out over time, making them a commitment-free way to experiment with fun, trendy shades.
Q: Why should I consider embracing my natural hair color?
A: Giving your natural shade a chance to shine allows your hair a much-needed break from damaging chemicals and dyes. You might just discover a newfound appreciation for your natural hue.
Q: Are there any risks associated with these alternative hair coloring methods?
A: While generally gentler than bleaching, some of these methods like henna or color depositing conditioners can still cause allergic reactions or undesired results if not used properly. Always do a strand test first.
Q: How often can I use these alternative coloring techniques?
A: The frequency depends on the specific method, but most alternatives like glosses, toners, and color conditioners can be used more regularly than traditional dyes without as much damage.
