Introduction
Firstly, hair bleaching refers to the process of removing the color pigment from the hair strands, resulting in a lighter hue. Bleach contains various ingredients, including hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, which work together to lift hair color. The practice has gained popularity with the rise of unicorn-colored hair dyeing. While hair bleaching can create a dramatic look, it can be a risky undertaking, especially when done at home. The wrong products or technique can cause severe damage to the hair and scalp.
Safe and successful hair bleaching requires a thorough understanding of the process. In this guide, we offer a step-by-step tutorial on how to bleach your hair without damaging it and provide insights on common bleaching mistakes to avoid. We also provide product reviews of popular hair bleaches on the market.
The Ultimate Guide to Bleaching Your Hair at Home
If you want to bleach hair at home, take note of these critical tips and tricks:
- Check the texture and health of your hair before undergoing the bleaching process. Avoid bleaching if your hair is already too damaged.
- Bleach works well on light hair color, so it is best to lighten your hair using hair dye or toner before applying bleach.
- Do not use metal bowls or utensils when mixing bleach, as they can react with the bleach and cause damage to your hair.
- Always wear gloves when working with bleach to protect your skin and nails from damage. Consider wearing a protective apron and mask to avoid inhaling the fumes.
- Read the instructions on the bleach product carefully, and do a patch test to prevent allergic reactions or unwanted results.
Additionally, consider following these tips to achieve the desired results:
- Apply bleach in a room with proper ventilation to avoid inhaling the fumes or causing a fire hazard.
- Work in small sections, beginning from the back of the head and moving to the front and top to ensure consistent application.
- Condition your hair immediately after rinsing bleach, as it can be drying and damaging to the hair.
- Take extra care of your hair after bleaching by applying hair treatments and avoiding heat styling and chemical treatments.
Always keep in mind that bleaching can be risky without the right preparation. A failed bleach attempt can cause severe hair damage and even lead to hair loss. Therefore, before proceeding, it is crucial to gather information on how to bleach your hair correctly and safely.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Bleach Your Hair at Home
Follow the below instructions on how to bleach your hair at home:
- Wet your hair thoroughly and prepare for bleaching. Put on gloves and mix the bleach mixture according to the package instructions.
- Divide your hair into sections, starting from the back and moving to the front and top of your head. Clip the hair back to useful manageability.
- Apply the bleach mixture on the hair strands, avoiding the roots- blend with a brush or application wand.
- Keep the bleach mixture on the hair for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your hair’s color and texture. Check the hair color regularly and rinse once it reaches the desired shade.
- Rinse off the bleach with warm water until the water runs clear.
- Apply a hair conditioner to your hair, massaging it in and leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
It is essential to follow each of the steps religiously to minimize the chances of damaging your hair or scalp. Avoid leaving the bleach on the hair for longer than required, as it may cause severe hair damage.
DIY Hair Bleaching: Pros, Cons, and Precautions You Need to Know
While bleaching hair at home can be a cost-effective way to achieve your desired look, it also comes with some pros and cons.
Pros
- Bleaching hair at home is more affordable than visiting a salon and can save you some money.
- You can control the tone and color of your hair better when using a bleach mixture than with pre-packaged hair dyes or toners.
- You can take better precautions when working on your hair at home, including doing a patch test and using protective gear.
Cons
- DIY bleaching can be dangerous, posing risks to your scalp, hair, and overall health.
- It can cause severe hair damage or hair loss if not done correctly.
- You may not achieve the desired color shade, as the process depends on various factors like hair texture, color, and length.
To ensure safe DIY hair bleaching, consider following these crucial precautions:
- Do not bleach hair that is already damaged or thinning.
- Do a patch test before applying the bleach mixture all over your hair.
- Avoid leaving the bleach on the head for longer than necessary.
- Rinse the hair thoroughly with cool water to avoid further damage.
By following these precautions, you can mitigate the risks of hair damage and ensure the process is safe for your hair and scalp.
Bleaching Your Hair at Home: Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Fix Them
One of the most common mistakes when bleaching hair at home includes not preparing correctly and not following the correct application guidelines thoroughly. Here are a few tips to prevent and solve these common hair bleaching issues:
Yellow/Orange Hair Tones
If the hair turns yellow or orange after bleaching, it probably means the bleach was in contact with the hair for too long, or the hair has too much red pigment. To fix this, do the below:
- Use a toner to neutralize the yellow or orange tones. Choose a toner based on the desired hair color to remove unwanted shades.
- Avoid leaving bleach on hair for an extended time, as this can cause more hair damage and cause an unwanted outcome.
Dry and Damaged Hair
Bleaching hair can be drying, damaging the hair. To fix this:
- Condition your hair regularly after bleaching to retain moisture and prevent hair dryness.
- Avoid heat styling your hair to prevent further hair damage.
- Use hair care products designed specifically for bleached hair to minimize chemical processing damage.
The Best Products for Bleaching Hair at Home: Reviews and Recommendations
We have reviewed popular hair bleaching products on the market to help you make an informed decision:
L’Oreal Paris Colorista Bleach
L’Oreal Paris Colorista bleach is one of the best hair bleaches on the market. Consisting of ammonium persulfate, it lightens hair quickly and effectively, leaving a clean, natural finish. The product comes with a nourishing post-treatment that helps to moisturize hair strands after the bleaching process.
Manic Panic Flash Lightning Bleach Kit
The Manic Panic Flash Lightning bleach kit is perfect for beginners. It consists of a cream bleach and toner, making the process smoother during and after the bleaching process. The kit is vegan and cruelty-free and free from harsh chemicals that can damage hair or scalp.
Wella Blondor Multi-Blonde Powder Lightener
Wella Blondor Multi-Blonde Powder Lightener is suitable for all hair types and works in 10 to 15 minutes. Made with a dust-free formula, it’s a safer option for those with allergies or sensitivities. It features a conditioning function that helps to condition the hair during bleaching.
Conclusion
Bleaching your hair at home can be a rewarding experience when done safely and correctly. Adequate preparation is essential, and using the right hair bleach product is crucial for achieving the desired result without causing damage. Remember to follow the instructions carefully, do a patch test, and use protective gear to avoid possible risks. By following these hair bleaching tips and tricks, you can achieve a fun, edgy look safely and make sure that your hair remains healthy.