How to Bleach Hair at Home
Preparing for the Bleaching Process
Before you begin the process of bleaching your hair, there are a few important steps to take to ensure the best results and minimize damage to your hair. First, consider doing a strand test to see how your hair will react to the bleach. This can help you determine how long to leave the bleach on and how much bleach to use.
Next, make sure your hair is clean and free of any product buildup. Avoid washing your hair immediately before bleaching, as this can cause irritation to your scalp. Instead, wash your hair one to two days before bleaching.
It’s also important to protect your skin and clothing during the bleaching process. Apply petroleum jelly or a similar product around your hairline and ears to prevent the bleach from coming into contact with your skin. Wear an old t-shirt or button-up shirt to avoid getting bleach on your clothes.
Finally, prepare your bleaching products according to the instructions on the package. Mixing the bleach incorrectly can result in uneven color or damage to your hair. Take your time and follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results.
Choosing the Right Bleaching Products
When it comes to bleaching your hair at home, choosing the right products is essential for achieving the desired results while minimizing damage to your hair. There are several types of bleach available, including powder bleach and cream bleach.
Powder bleach is a popular choice and is usually mixed with developer to create a paste that can be applied to your hair. Cream bleach, on the other hand, comes pre-mixed and can be easier to work with.
It’s also important to consider the strength of the bleach. Most bleaches come in varying strengths, with 20 volume being the most common for at-home use. If your hair is already damaged or you have a sensitive scalp, it’s best to opt for a lower strength bleach.
Lastly, consider the brand of bleach you choose. Look for a reputable brand with positive reviews to ensure the best results. Cheaper brands may not be as effective and could cause more damage to your hair.
Applying the Bleach to Your Hair
Once you have prepared your bleaching products and your hair is ready, it’s time to apply the bleach. Start by sectioning your hair into small sections, using clips or hair ties to keep them separated.
Using gloves to protect your hands, apply the bleach mixture to your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Avoid getting the bleach on your scalp, as this can cause irritation and damage.
Be sure to apply the bleach evenly throughout your hair, using a brush or your fingers to work it in. If you have long hair, you may want to have someone help you to ensure that you don’t miss any sections.
Once the bleach is applied, cover your hair with a shower cap to help the bleach process. The length of time you leave the bleach on will depend on the strength of the bleach and the desired level of lightness. Check the instructions on the bleach package for guidance.
After the bleach has processed, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to help restore moisture to your hair. Be sure to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to help repair any damage caused by the bleach.
Maintaining Healthy Hair After Bleaching
Bleaching can be damaging to your hair, so it’s important to take steps to maintain healthy hair after the process. Here are a few tips to keep your hair looking and feeling its best:
Avoid heat styling tools: Heat can cause further damage to bleached hair, so try to avoid using heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant product to your hair first.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates can strip your hair of natural oils, so it’s best to use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your hair moisturized.
Deep condition regularly: Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to help repair any damage caused by the bleach.
Trim your hair regularly: Bleached hair can become dry and brittle, so it’s important to trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends.
Protect your hair from the sun: The sun can also cause damage to bleached hair, so wear a hat or use a hair protectant product with SPF when you’re outside.
By following these tips, you can help keep your bleached hair looking and feeling healthy.
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
Bleaching your hair at home can be a daunting process, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve the best results. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your at-home bleaching experience:
Be patient: Bleaching can be a gradual process, so don’t expect immediate results. Take your time and follow the instructions carefully to achieve the desired level of lightness.
Don’t overdo it: Bleaching too frequently or using too much bleach can cause damage to your hair. It’s best to wait at least a few weeks between bleaching sessions to give your hair time to recover.
Consider your hair type: Different hair types will react differently to bleach, so it’s important to consider your hair type when choosing your bleach products and processing time.
Seek professional help if needed: If you’re not comfortable bleaching your hair at home or if you’re not achieving the desired results, consider seeking professional help from a stylist.
Take care of your hair: Bleaching can be damaging to your hair, so it’s important to take care of it before, during, and after the process. Follow a healthy hair care routine and use products designed to repair and protect bleached hair.
By following these tips, you can achieve the best results when bleaching your hair at home while minimizing damage to your hair.
