Hair falling out from bleach is a common concern for many who seek to change their hair color. Bleach can weaken hair fibers. Over time, this can lead to breakage and even hair loss.
Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can help maintain the health and beauty of your hair.
That’s why we had our in-house hairstylist come up with 11 tips to help against this issue.
Hair Damage from Bleach: What and Why?
Bleaching is a harsh chemical process that can cause significant damage to your hair. This results in breakage, dryness, and hair loss.
The chemicals in hair bleach weaken the hair strands. This reaction leads to brittle, dry, and unhealthy hair.
What Does Hair Loss From Bleach Look Like?
Hair loss from bleach may appear in various forms:
- Increased hair breakage
- Split ends
- Frizz
- Drieness
You may also notice patches of hair thinning or bald spots in more severe cases.
The Role of Chemicals in Hair Damage
Bleaching involves the use of chemicals that penetrate your hair shaft. These chemicals break down the natural proteins responsible for your hair’s:
- Strength
- Elasticity
- Health
This process leads to a weakened hair structure, resulting in dryness and an increased likelihood of hair breakage.
Bleach causes oxidation. Oxidation dries out the hair and disrupts the hair cuticle responsible for locking in moisture.
The bleach also removes natural proteins. This makes it difficult for the hair to maintain a healthy protein balance and leads to weakened hair prone to breakage.
Will Hair Grow Back After Bleach Burn?
Yes, hair often grows back after bleach damage. Hair growth might be slower in the affected areas, but with proper care, you can restore your hair’s health.
Remember, repairing your hair takes time and patience. By taking care of your hair and paying attention to its needs, you can recover from bleach damage and maintain healthy hair.
Why Does Hair Fall Out After Bleaching?
Hair falls out after bleaching due to the chemical process that bleach imposes on the hair. Bleaching removes the natural pigment from the hair. It down the hair’s keratin, which can make it more fragile.
This process can:
- Weaken the hair strands
- Reduce elasticity
- Lead to breakage and hair loss
Is It Normal For Hair To Fall Out After Bleaching?
Yes, it is normal for some hair to fall out after bleaching. The chemicals in hair bleach can lead to hair becoming brittle, dry, and prone to breakage. When you bleach your hair, you may experience some hair loss.
Don’t worry too much, as this hair loss is usually temporary. Your hair will recover and grow back, provided you take proper care of it.
How to Prevent Hair Loss After Bleaching
Hair bleaching may cause hair loss. With proper care and precaution, you can help prevent this issue. Here are several methods to reduce the risk of hair loss after bleaching:
- Use a lower volume bleach
- Follow instructions
- Condition hair before and after bleaching
- Avoid overlapping applications
- Limit heat styling
- Use protein treatments
- Seek professional assistance if unsure
- Avoid frequent bleaching
- Use gentle shampoos and conditioners
- Take breaks between bleaching sessions
Use a Lower Volume Bleach
A mild bleach with a lower volume strength can reduce the damage to your hair follicles. Choose a 20-volume developer. This has a lesser strength than 30 or 40-volume developers. This makes it gentler on your hair.
Follow Instructions
Misusing bleach can result in significant hair damage. Follow the bleach product’s instructions every time you bleach your hair. Conduct a patch test to prevent hair loss.
Condition Hair Before and After Bleaching
Prepare your hair by using a conditioner or a pre-shampoo treatment. This reduces the effects of bleach. Apply natural oils such as coconut oil on your hair before bleaching it.
After the bleaching process, use a deep conditioner to replenish lost nutrients and hydration.
Avoid Overlapping Applications
Avoid overlapping new bleach onto previously bleached hair to limit the likelihood of hair breakage and loss.
Limit Heat Styling
Reduce the usage of heat-styling tools like flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers. They can weaken your already fragile hair.
Use Protein Treatments
Protein treatments can help strengthen hair strands and replenish lost nutrients. These treatments restore keratin, leaving your hair healthier and more resilient.
Seek Professional Assistance if Unsure
Consult a professional stylist if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about the bleaching process. They can guide you, ensuring you do the process as required.
Avoid Frequent Bleaching
Limiting the number of bleaching sessions allows your hair to recover from previous treatments. This reduces hair loss.
Give your hair time to grow and regain its strength.
Use Gentle Shampoos and Conditioners
Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that provide necessary nutrients to your hair. Products containing vitamins and nourishing ingredients can promote hair growth and limit damage.
Take Breaks Between Bleaching Sessions
Allow your hair to rest and recover between bleaching sessions. This encourages hair growth and reduces the chance of hair loss.
During this time, continue your hair care routine. Try to nurture your hair with nourishing treatments and products.
Read more here: How to Bleach Black Hair Without Damaging It (Step-by-Step)
How Do I Stop My Hair From Falling Out After Bleaching It?
Bleaching your hair can cause damage and result in hair loss. To avoid this, it’s essential to take proper care of your hair after you’ve bleached it. Here are some tips to maintain healthy hair following a bleaching treatment:
- Use a deep conditioning treatment
- Avoid heat styling
- Trim damaged ends
- Use gentle hair products
- Avoid coloring or re-bleaching
- Consider professional treatments
- Eat a healthy diet
- Reduce washing frequency
- Apply hair serums or oils
- Avoid chlorinated water
- Use a wide-toothed comb
1. Use a Deep Conditioning Treatment
Deep conditioning treatments help restore moisture and nourish the hair shafts.
Make a habit of using a deep conditioning mask or treatment once a week to prevent hair loss and keep your locks strong.
2. Avoid Heat Styling
Heating tools such as hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can further weaken your already damaged hair.
Give your hair a break by air-drying and adopting heat-free styling methods.
3. Trim Damaged Ends
Trim the split ends of your hair to reduce the chances of breakage. Schedule hair trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain healthy hair.
4. Use Gentle Hair Products
Opt for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
Harsh chemicals in hair products can weaken your hair and make it more susceptible to breakage.
5. Avoid Coloring or Re-bleaching
Give your hair time to recover by avoiding further coloring or re-bleaching for at least 6-8 weeks after an initial bleach treatment.
This allows time for your hair to regain its strength and prevents further damage.
6. Consider Professional Treatments
Hair professionals can provide treatments that help restore the hair’s structure. This limits hair loss. Some professional hair treatments include:
- Protein treatments
- Keratin treatments
- Bond builders
7. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can contribute to strengthening hair from the inside out.
Include protein-rich foods, healthy fats, and leafy greens in your daily meals.
8. Reduce Washing Frequency
Limiting the frequency of washing your hair can help prevent hair loss caused by over-stripping the hair of its natural oils.
Aim to wash your bleached hair every 2-3 days to maintain its health.
9. Apply Hair Serums or Oils
Hair serums and oils, like argan oil or coconut oil, can lock in moisture and help protect your hair from breakage and further damage.
10. Avoid Chlorinated Water
Chlorine in swimming pools can be harsh on bleached hair, leading to dryness and potential hair loss.
Wear a swim cap when swimming or rinse your hair with clean water before entering the pool to reduce your hair’s exposure to chlorine.
11. Use a Wide-Toothed Comb
Using a wide-toothed comb instead of a brush helps to detangle your hair without causing breakage.
When you comb your hair, start from the ends and move up to the roots to prevent knotting and tugging on damaged hair.
Home Remedies to Repair Damage
Give your hair a break with these easy-to-follow home remedies:
- Apply a deep conditioning treatment to your bleached hair. This will help replenish some of the lost moisture, making it easier to manage.
- Rinse and condition your hair for the first 24-48 hours after bleaching. No shampoo! This helps in maintaining oil balance and keeps your hair hydrated.
- Use honey and avocado as a natural hair mask. Mix it well, and apply it to your damaged hair. Rinse after 30 minutes.
- Get some peppermint oil and mix a few drops with water. Spray it onto your hair, focusing on the damaged parts.
- Use a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture throughout the day. This protects your hair from further damage and helps with detangling.
Dealing with Underlying Health Conditions
Underlying health conditions can cause hair loss and thinning hair after bleaching. Deficiencies in iron, B vitamins, Omega 3 fats, and protein can lead to hair problems.
Conditions like alopecia areata contribute to hair loss, too. Plus, a compromised immune system from illnesses like COVID-19, the flu, or pregnancy can result in hair fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best protein treatments for damaged, bleached hair?
Protein treatments help rebuild and strengthen the hair structure. Look for treatments containing ingredients such as hydrolyzed proteins, (e.g. keratin, silk, or wheat). They can penetrate the hair shaft. You can try popular protein treatments like Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment, Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3, or Redken Extreme Cat Protein Reconstructing Treatment.
Are there any recommended leave-in conditioners for bleached hair?
Leave-in conditioners play a vital role in moisturizing and detangling bleached hair. Some recommended leave-in conditioners include It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product, Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner, and Shea Moisture Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner. These products help seal moisture. This makes your hair more manageable and less prone to breakage.
How long does it take for hair to stop falling out after bleaching?
The time it takes for hair to stop falling out after bleaching can vary depending on the individual and the level of damage. It’s essential to practice proper hair care to limit breakage and promote growth. Give your hair a break from heat styling, focus on a healthy hair care routine, and trim split ends. Aair may start to recover and stop falling out within a few weeks to several months. You should consult a professional if excessive hair loss continues.