Do you dream of beautiful blonde hair or a few lighter highlights to accentuate your face? Then hair bleaching is for you!
However, it should not be practiced blindly, find out everything you need to know about hair bleaching…
Hair bleaching: how does it work?
The Hair Bleaching Guide
Whether you want to go platinum blonde or lighten your natural color slightly, it is important to know all about bleaching hair and realize that it is a harsh and permanent chemical process.
Indeed, this method consists of applying hydrogen peroxide to your lengths and roots in order to open the scales of the hair and remove the melanin it contains.
Melanin is a pigment that determines the color of your skin and your hair, for example, it is she who will make your skin tan after exposure to the sun.
Hair bleaching is therefore a process that will lighten your hair by oxidation and it is essential if you want to lighten your hair beyond two tones. Know that it is possible to go up to 8 shades lighter during discoloration.
Things to know before bleaching your hair
Discolored hair needs more care
The discoloration is a chemical, permanent and aggressive process. It is this aggression that will alter the color of the hair. Colored hair is therefore hair that is weakened and which, by definition, will require more attention.
It is therefore essential to adapt your hair routine following discoloration. You will need to use a shampoo and conditioner for colored, bleached, or damaged hair. In addition, it will be important to make nourishing, moisturizing masks or vegetable oil baths to provide them with maximum hydration and protection.
If you opt for a light blonde, know that the use of a blue shampoo and conditioner is essential if you do not want to see your hair turn yellow.
If you are pregnant, forget the discoloration!
Nothing prohibits pregnant women from bleaching their hair, it is still advisable to avoid chemical coloring and bleaching during the first 4 months of pregnancy.
Indeed, the products used are often aggressive or even toxic if inhaled. If you cannot do without coloring during your pregnancy, talk to your hairdresser about the solutions available to you and opt for vegetable coloring. However, there is little chance that you will be able to heavily bleach your hair…
Clairol Professional BW2 Hair Powder Lightener – for Hair Lightening
Discoloration alters the hair fiber
We’ll repeat ourselves, but fading is an aggressive process. Hydrogen peroxide penetrates the heart of the hair, which can alter the hair fiber.
Beyond a change in its hue, you could see a change in your hair type. For example, curly hair may have less defined curls, thick hair may thin out, etc.
The hair goes through various colors during the pose
If you bleach at the hairdresser, you may not even notice this phenomenon. But if you’re going for an at-home bleach, you better be aware.
The hair being bleached will go through several different colors before reaching that blonde you’ve been waiting for. Red, orange then yellow, and eventually blond.
This is why it is crucial to respect the break time indicated by the manufacturer of the bleaching product you are going to employ so as not to rinse out when your hair is orange!
Discoloration without recoloration?
If you dream of a uniform blond, that is to say on all of your hair, know that you will get it in two steps. Indeed, the decoration leaves the hair yellowish and dull, regardless of the method used.
The only exception will be in the case of a balayage or highlights if you don’t lighten your hair beyond 2 shades lighter. But if you opt for homemade discoloration, consider applying the color of your choice afterward.
The discoloration is permanent
Contrary to certain colorings, in particular natural or without ammonia, a discoloration is permanent. It does not fade after several shampoos. This is why you have to think carefully before taking action.
You need to know everything about hair discoloration because you can’t really go back. You will obviously have the option of coloring if you no longer like your blonde hair. But until your hair has been cut, it will remain discolored under the dye…
Not all hair is created equal when it comes to bleaching
If discoloration sensitizes and weakens all types of hair, for some of them, the consequences can be more or less important.
Fine, already weakened, frizzy, or very curly hair is typically more fragile and dry than other types of hair. Bleaching can be more aggressive on this hair. This is why it is preferable to call on the expertise of your hairdresser in these cases and to respect the recommended exposure time.
It is possible that the desired bleaching involves several stages spaced out over time. Remember, if you burn your hair from overly aggressive bleaching, you won’t have any hair to color or bleach for a while… so it’s not worth the risk!
Photo: Pexels/ Mart Production
All products featured on Body Care Art are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
