Can you bleach permed hair? Bleaching permed hair requires careful consideration. Perming involves altering the hair’s structure, while bleaching uses chemicals to lighten color.
Combining these processes can stress your hair. The chemical interactions might lead to unexpected results. Understanding the science behind perming and bleaching is crucial.
Let’s delve into whether it’s possible and safe to bleach permed hair.
Perms and Bleach: How They Work
Perming and bleaching are two chemical treatments many women undergo. Even though they have chemical compounds that change your hair’s appearance, they work in different manners.
Perm Explained
A perm (or permanent wave) is a chemical process that changes the structure of your hair to create curls or waves. The type of perm chosen depends on the desired result.
There are two types of perms:
- Traditional cold perms: use ammonium thioglycolate
- Acid perms (or hot perms): use glyceryl mono thioglycolate
These chemicals break the disulfide bonds in the hair shaft. This reshapes your hair before the bonds take place.
Bleach Explained
Bleaching your hair is a separate chemical process where you remove the natural or artificial pigment from your hair. It usually involves the use of hydrogen peroxide combined with other chemicals.
When applied, bleach causes a chemical reaction that breaks down the melanin in your hair. Melanin is a pigment responsible for its color.
The longer the bleach stays on your hair, the lighter the color becomes.
Is Bleach Or Perm More Damaging?
Both perms and bleach involve chemical processes that can damage your hair. The degree of damage varies between the two. Perms tend to be less damaging in comparison to bleach, especially when done in a proper manner.
Hot perms are also less harmful than cold perms since they use gentler chemicals and cause less damage to the hair shaft.
Bleaching is more damaging because it strips away the natural pigment of your hair. It can lead to breakage, split ends, and weakening of the hair structure.
Can You Perm Your Hair Then Bleach It?
Yes, you can perm your hair and then bleach it, but you should be cautious as both processes can damage it.
Be prepared for some potential side effects when bleaching permed hair. Your hair may become weaker, drier, and more prone to breakage.
Moisturize your hair on a regular basis while undergoing these processes. Invest in good-quality hair products designed for chemically treated hair.
How Long Do I Wait To Bleach My Hair After A Perm?
Waiting at least two to three weeks before bleaching is the best approach. This allows your hair to strengthen and reduces the risk of damage, breakage, and split ends. Give your hair enough time to recover after getting a perm.
During this waiting period, prepare your hair for the bleaching session. Use appropriate hair care products and follow some key tips.
Remember, bleach can be quite harsh on your hair, breaking hair proteins apart to lift or remove color.
How To Bleach Permed Hair
Bleaching permed hair can be tricky, but it is possible with the right precautions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Ensure your hair is healthy and strong after a perm before proceeding with bleaching.
- Choose a developer with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide (around 10-20 volume).
- Perform a strand test by applying bleach to a hidden section of hair to determine the right timing for bleaching.
- Mix the bleach and developer according to the product instructions.
- Divide your hair into sections. Apply the bleach mixture, avoiding the roots and focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
- Keep an eye on the bleaching process, checking the strand test area often to avoid over-processing.
- Rinse the bleach out and follow with a deep conditioner to nourish and restore moisture to your hair.
Potential Damages and Risks
Bleaching permed hair comes with potential problems and risks. Be aware of these before proceeding. It can help you make an informed decision and take necessary precautions.
| Aspect | Effect on Hair | Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Damage | Hair can become weak and break easily. It might look and feel dry. Can lead to hair loss. | Serious damage to hair. Risk of losing hair. Allergic reactions possible. |
| Breakage | Hair becomes fragile and can snap easily. | Higher chance of hair breaking. |
| Dryness | Hair loses moisture and becomes dry. | More susceptibility to damage. |
| Hair Texture | Bleaching permed hair can affect the curl pattern of the perm. | Hair gets straighter or frizzier. |
| Disulfide Bonds | Hair’s natural strength diminishes. | Hair structure gets weaker. |
| Risks | Major harm to hair, potential for hair loss, and allergic reactions. | Various dangers for hair health. |
Research and consult a professional hairstylist before bleaching your permed hair. They can guide you through the process and help you understand the potential outcome.
How To Maintain Hair Health and Texture
Bleaching permed hair can be safe if your hair is strong and healthy. To maintain its health and texture, follow these tips:
- Pick the right conditioner for your hair type. This helps provide nourishment and retain curls or waves.
- Use a gentle shampoo to prevent weakening your hair fibers.
- Apply deep conditioning treatments on a regular basis to keep your hair moisturized and reduce frizz.
- Nourish your hair with base masks or hot oil treatments to strengthen hair proteins and improve texture.
- Protect your hair cuticle by using a protein treatment to maintain volume and prevent damage.
Choosing the Right Color and Style
When you decide to bleach your permed hair, consider the color and style that suit your curly locks best.
Blonde shades are popular choices for permed hair. They add vibrancy and dimension to curls. Some options to think about are:
- Platinum blonde
- Classic blonde
- Darker blonde
| Shade of Blonde | Effect on Curls | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum Blonde | Bold, Striking | Those who want a dramatic transformation |
| Classic Blonde | Subtle, Natural | A sun-kissed look that suits most |
| Darker Blonde | Depth, Contrast | Enhancing definition of curls |
After selecting your ideal blonde shade, think about the style you want to achieve. Combining the right color with a suitable hair perm can maximize the impact of your new look.
Precautions and Care After Bleaching
When bleaching permed hair, you should take precautions and care for your hair afterward. This reduces damage. Here are some steps to follow:
- Wait at least two weeks after your perm before bleaching your hair.
- Use a gentle bleach formula with a lower developer to cut damage.
- To avoid dryness and split ends, use a sulfate-free shampoo.
- Regular protein treatments and Olaplex can help to rebuild the hair’s structure and reduce hair fall.
- Get regular trims to remove split ends and keep hair healthy.
- Limit the use of heat styling tools, or at least use a heat protectant when doing so.
- Avoid using products containing ammonium thioglycolate on bleached hair.
- Pay attention to your hair’s porosity and adjust your hair care routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I highlight permed hair?
Yes, you can highlight permed hair. You should wait at least two weeks after getting your perm before highlighting your hair. This waiting period allows the chemicals in the perm to settle, reducing the risk of damage.
Is it better to bleach before or after a perm?
It is generally recommended to bleach your hair before getting a perm. Bleaching hair can weaken the hair structure. Perming your hair after bleaching can increase the risk of damage. You should wait at least two weeks between these procedures to allow your hair to recover.
What is the duration of a perm?
A perm lasts around three to six months. This duration can vary depending on factors such as your hair’s natural texture, the size of the curls, and how well you maintain the perm. You can increase its duration by applying regular trims. Using products designed for permed hair and avoiding excessive heat styling can help you get the most out of your perm.
