Bleaching hair at home is a popular way to achieve a new look, but it can also be a risky process. Did you know that the pH level of your hair affects how it reacts to bleach?
Bleaching can cause damage to your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. But, it is possible to bleach your hair at home in a safe way and without causing damage.
In this article, we’ll show you how to bleach your hair at home without damaging it.
Understanding Hair Bleaching
Hair bleach is a strong mixture that uses two special ingredients. An oxidizing agent and bleaching powder to make your hair lighter. They work together to remove the natural color of your hair.
Hair bleach that professionals use is stronger and works better than the ones you can use at home. But, if you don’t use it right, it can also harm your hair more.
When bleaching hair at home, always follow the directions. Do a strand test first before applying the mixture to your entire head. It will give you an idea of how your hair will react to the bleach.
Keeping healthy hair is key when it comes to bleach. So, make sure you care for your hair before, during, and after the process. To achieve the best results and avoid hair damage.
Different Hair Types and Their Response to Bleaching
There are two types of hair to consider before bleaching. It’s important to know what type of hair you have as each hair type has a unique way of reacting to bleach. Another reason to save your bleached hair from damage.
- Virgin hair
- Colored hair or hair treated before
Virgin Hair
A hair type that has not undergone dyeing, bleaching, or treating hair with chemicals.
Virgin hair is easier to bleach because it has not undergone any chemical process. Making it less sensitive to bleaching.
If you have this type of hair, you’ll likely see faster and more even results when you bleach it at home. But be sure to follow the instructions on the bleaching product.
Colored Hair or Previously Treated Hair
Colored or previously treated hair can be more challenging to bleach. As it has already been through one or more chemical processes.
This makes it more susceptible to damage and uneven bleaching results. If you have colored or treated hair, you might need to take extra precautions when bleaching it at home.
9 Things to Prepare at Home Before Bleaching
It is important to prepare all the materials needed for bleaching. Here’s what you need to bleach your hair at home:
- Bleaching powder
- Foil or plastic wrap
- Developer (20 or 30 volume)
- Mixing bowl and brush
- Plastic gloves
- Sectioning clips
- Old shirt or towel
- Coconut oil or petroleum jelly
- Toning products (if necessary)
1. Bleaching Powder
Choose a high-quality bleaching powder to lighten your hair.
Pick a suitable brand from your local beauty store, and read the instructions.
2. Foil or Plastic Wrap
Using foil or plastic wrap stops the bleach from getting on the parts of your hair that you haven’t treated yet.
This helps you avoid uneven color and damage.
3. Developer (20 or 30 Volume)
The developer is important for the bleaching process.
A 20 or 30 volume developer works best for minimal damage.
Remember, lower volumes mean less damage, but also lighter results.
4. Mixing Bowl and Brush
A non-metallic mixing bowl and a brush are necessary. This is helpful for blending the bleach and developer.
This ensures a smooth mixture without any lumps.
5. Plastic Gloves
Wear plastic gloves to protect your hands from the bleach. This prevents irritation and potential burns.
6. Sectioning Clips
Use sectioning clips to divide your hair into smaller parts. Making it simpler and faster to apply the bleach.
7. Old Shirt or Towel
Wear an old shirt or use a towel around your shoulders to prevent the bleach from staining your clothes or skin.
8. Coconut Oil or Petroleum Jelly
Apply coconut oil or petroleum jelly to your scalp and hair. To lessen damage and avoid irritation.
This adds a protective layer during the bleaching process.
9. Toning Products (If Necessary)
If your desired color is cool-toned or ashy. You may need toning products to neutralize brassiness after bleaching.
Buy purple shampoo or toner to achieve your desired shade.
10 Tips to Bleach Hair at Home Without Damage
Bleaching hair at home can be risky. But it is possible to bleach your hair with safety. Below are the ways to bleach your hair at home without damage:
- Wear old clothes/towels and gloves
- Do a strand test before bleaching
- Hair preparation
- Mix bleach powder and developer
- Apply bleach mixture mid-length to hair
- Bleach the higher sections of your hair
- Wait and allow the bleach to process
- Rinse hair with an acidic shampoo
- Apply toning (optional)
- Maintain after-bleach hair care
1. Wear Old Clothes/Towel and Gloves
Before starting, wear old clothes or a towel to protect your skin and outfit from bleach stains.
Put on gloves to protect your hands from irritation.
2. Do a Strand Test Before Bleaching
Conduct a strand test to prevent damage.
Apply a small amount of bleach mix to a hidden section of hair and follow the steps.
This helps identify the correct processing time and if your hair can handle the bleach.
3. Hair Preparation
Avoid heat styling, sun exposure, and chemical treatments for at least two weeks. This is enough time to prepare your hair for bleaching.
Use a hair mask or conditioner to strengthen your strands.
4. Mix Bleach Powder and Developer
Follow the instructions to mix bleach powder and developer.
The mixture should have a creamy consistency, enabling even application.
5. Apply Bleach Mixture Mid-Length to Hair
Start at the mid-length of your hair, applying the bleach in an even mixture with a brush.
This ensures even color distribution.
6. Bleach The Higher Sections of Your Hair
Once you’ve applied the product to the middle part of your hair. Proceed to the upper sections and roots of your hair.
This helps prevent over-processing the roots, which are more sensitive.
7. Wait and Allow the Bleach to Process
Keep an eye on the color change and wait for the desired shade.
Don’t leave it on for longer than the instructed amount of time, or you might harm your hair.
8. Rinse Hair with an Acidic Shampoo
Rinse your hair with an acidic shampoo.
To neutralize the alkaline bleach and close the cuticles, protect your hair.
9. Apply Toning (Optional)
Toning is optional but can help neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones.
Apply toner according to the instructions and do a thorough rinse.
10. Maintain After-Bleach Hair Care
Maintain bleached hair by using sulfate-free shampoos, deep conditioning, and avoid heat styling.
10 After-Bleach Care Tips to Avoid Damage
Keeping your hair healthy is a priority when it comes to bleaching. Do the following 10 after-bleach hair care tips to lessen hair damage:
- Hydrate your hair
- Apply a weekly deep conditioning
- Always rinse with cool water
- Avoid high-heat styling
- Do regular hair trim
- Use a hair sunscreen
- Choose sulfate-free products
- Do not wash your hair too much
- Avoid tight hairstyles
- Avoid chlorine exposure
1. Hydrate Your Hair
Hydrating your hair is important after bleaching.
Olive oil can be helpful, apply a few drops to your ends to add moisture.
2. Apply Weekly Deep Conditioning
Deep conditioning treatments will strengthen and nourish your bleached hair.
Apply a hydrating mask or conditioning treatment once a week.
3. Always Rinse With Cool Water
After shampooing and conditioning, rinse your hair with cool water.
This helps seal the hair cuticles, locking in moisture and color, while reducing frizz.
4. Avoid High-Heat Styling
High heat can damage bleached hair.
Try to avoid using flat irons, curling wands, or hairdryers in high-heat settings.
Use heat protectant sprays when necessary.
5. Do Regular Hair Trim
Regular trims help prevent split ends and keep your hair looking healthy.
Schedule a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the appearance of your hair.
6. Use a Hair Sunscreen
Protect your hair from sun damage by applying a hair sunscreen when you plan to spend time outdoors.
This will help prevent color fading and dryness.
7. Choose Sulfate-Free Products
Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are less harsh on your hair.
It helps maintain color vibrancy. Look for products designed for color-treated hair.
8. Do not Wash Your Hair Too Much
Washing your hair too often can strip off natural oils and cause dryness.
Try to wash your hair every 2-3 days to maintain moisture and color.
9. Avoid Tight Hair Styles
Tight hairstyles, like ponytails or braids, can cause tension and breakage.
Do loose styles to help prevent damage to your bleached hair.
10. Avoid Chlorine Exposure
Chlorine in swimming pools can have a negative effect on your hair color and cause dryness.
Wear a swim cap or apply a protective spray before entering the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best products for bleaching hair at home safely?
There are various hair bleaching products available in the market. But, it’s important to choose the right one for you. Look for products with clear instructions and nourishing ingredients to lessen hair damage. Don’t forget to follow the best practices to keep your hair looking fabulous and healthy.
Are there any natural options for lightening hair without damage?
Yes, there are natural options for lightening hair without damage. Using a mixture of honey and chamomile can lighten your hair over time. This method works best for people with light brown to blonde hair. Remember, natural lighteners might take longer to provide results compared to chemical products.
What are some precautions to take when bleaching hair at home?
When you bleach your hair at home, remember to do a few things to keep your hair safe. Check if your hair is healthy before you begin and avoid using hot tools and being in the sun. Test a small piece of hair first to see how it reacts to the bleach. Follow the directions on the bleach and don’t leave it on for too long.
