Have you always wanted to bleach your hair? A platinum blonde hair is beautiful and showy; maybe that's why it's always in fashion. Fortunately, you can also lighten your hair at home: just buy special products. You can use dyes based on chemicals, products you can find at home (like hydrogen peroxide) or natural ingredients, like lemon juice.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Using Professional Products
Step 1. Do your research to find the best products for you
Find some photos of hair colors you want to create with bleach and search online for what those colors are called and what products work best to create them. Also consider the hair color you are starting with.
Try looking for something like: "Which products work best for whitening black hair?" or "How to use bleach on red hair to make it platinum blonde?"
Step 2. Purchase a bleaching dye at a designated store
To lighten your hair properly, you will need to buy different products. Each of them is important and will be indispensable at different stages of the operation. These products include:
- Powder bleach: you can find it in packages or trays.
- Activator: choose it based on the natural color of your hair. If you have them blonde or light brown, use an activator at 20 or 30 volume. If you have them dark brown or black, you may need activator at 40 volume. The lower the volume, the less you will damage the hair; never go beyond an activator at 40 volume. Some suggest never going beyond 10; ask a clerk for advice.
- Many professionals use activators at 30 or 40 volume for time reasons, but you should avoid doing something like this at home, as these products can do more damage than those at lower volumes.
- Toner, which removes yellow from bleached hair. Buy it if you want to get a platinum blonde color. Some of these products make hair white, others give it a silvery sheen.
- The red gold corrector; it is added to the bleaching powder to increase its effectiveness, so as not to have to repeat the process.
- Purple Shampoo, a special shampoo designed to wash bleached hair.
- Brush, bowl and plastic film.
- Buy an extra pack of bleach and activator in case you need more. Some people's hair absorbs the dye faster than others; having a little more could be useful; you will avoid finding yourself without more cream and with only half of the head bleached.
Step 3. Start with untreated hair
No matter which method you use, your hair will dry out and become more brittle than usual. Starting with healthy hair prevents excessive damage caused by bleaching. Do not dye or otherwise treat them for about a month before discoloration. Use gentle products, such as shampoo and conditioner made from natural ingredients, so that your hair is as healthy as possible before bleaching.
Step 4. Use a conditioner, one or two days before proceeding with the bleaching; this way you will help your hair stay hydrated
There are different types, from the cheapest (about 2 Euros) to the most expensive (more than 20 Euros); you can also find some with natural ingredients, such as those from the DIY brand. You can also search online for a method to make your own at home, using food (banana, avocado, mayonnaise, yogurt, eggs, coconut oil, etc.). This step is to reduce frizz and damage caused by bleaching.
Step 5. Test for allergies
You may think that you are wasting time unnecessarily but it is important and will save you problems if you discover that you are actually allergic to any ingredient. To do this, apply some of the dye to the skin area behind the ear. Leave it for 24 to 48 hours and check for any reactions, such as a rash, itching, or burning in that spot. If you have any of these symptoms, try one of the other methods of bleaching your hair.
Step 6. Prepare the bleaching paste
Read the instructions on the package to find out how much you need to use. Usually, you have to mix one part of bleach with two parts of activator; in any case, you will find the correct size in the instructions. Put it in an old bowl and use a teaspoon you don't need to eat. The mixture should be bluish or blue.
Add the red gold concealer according to the instructions on the bottle, to know the right amount to use
Step 7. Protect your skin and clothing
The mixture could stain your clothes and irritate your skin, so be careful. Put on gloves and cover your clothes with an old towel. Apply a little petroleum jelly to your neck and forehead to keep your skin clean.
Always use gloves - the chemicals in these substances can burn your skin
Step 8. Test a strand
Take one from the nape of your neck and apply some of the mixture; it starts from the roots, up to the tips. Leave on for 20-30 minutes; then rinse the strand and check the color with the help of a towel. This way you can see if you like the color obtained before bleaching the whole head. You will also be able to understand if the shutter speed is sufficient.
Step 9. Use barrettes to divide your hair into sections; better if you can remove them using only one hand, to make things easier
Leave the section you want to start with loose.
Step 10. Apply the dye to your hair
Make sure your hair is completely dry before you start. Use the brush to apply the dye from the tips to the roots. Keep the hair to be bleached away from others, so as not to lose where you left off. Use clothespins or aluminum foil to separate the various strands.
- Depending on the style you are looking for, you can use the brush to apply the bleach in a variety of ways, including: from root to tip, tip to root, etc.
- Do not rub the dye on your head, as chemicals can burn the scalp.
- To lighten just a few strands, separate them from the rest of the hair; wrap them in aluminum foil to avoid bleaching other sections. To make things easier, you could ask a friend to help you.
- It might be a good idea to apply the dye to the front section of the head, leave it on and rinse, before moving on to the back. Doing your whole head at once can take you some time and you may not have enough to finish the back before you need to rinse the front.
Step 11. Check the color frequently
Cover your hair with plastic wrap and let the mixture work. The longer you keep it, the clearer your hair will be. Check after 15 minutes, using a towel on one strand; if your hair still feels too dark, apply more dye to that section and keep it on for another 10 minutes. Check again, until you are happy with the color. Do not leave the dye on your head for more than 45 minutes in total.
Several factors, including the volume of your developer and the tone of your hair, influence the time it takes for the bleach to change the color to the one you want
Step 12. Rinse off the dye with cold water and then wash your hair
Use the special shampoo for treated hair; dry them and check the result. If you are satisfied, comb your hair as usual.
Be aware that depending on your natural hair color, the shade of blonde may be different. Dark browns will turn a chestnut brown; putting too much bleach could make them orange. Brown hair will turn light brown; those already light, a dark blond. The red ones will turn out orange and, with the right amount of lightener, they could become a lighter blond; the blond ones will become even lighter
Step 13. Choose whether or not to use toner
Some people use it to achieve a platinum blonde color or to hide any blemishes due to discoloration. However, it doesn't work for everyone and can make your hair look ugly grayish. Follow this step only after you have finished bleaching, washed and dried your hair (to remove excess dye).
Step 14. Prepare the toner
In a bowl, mix toner, golden red concealer, and activator following the instructions on the packages.
Step 15. Apply the toner
Hair must be completely dry, so use a towel and wait a while after bleaching. Use a brush to apply toner to sectioned hair, separating already covered areas from those to be done with tongs or aluminum foil. In this case you are not constrained by time, as with the discoloration; take what you need.
Step 16. Leave it on
It depends on the type of product but usually takes 30 minutes. Wait until it turns purple. Check back after 15 minutes to see how it goes; remove some of the toner using a towel. Check back every 10 minutes until you are happy with the color.
Step 17. Rinse
Rinse your hair with cold water until all traces of toner are removed. It is better to use the cold one because it stops the bleaching process.
Step 18. Wash your hair using the purple shampoo; serves to help distribute purple pigments, to contrast brass tones
By adding a little purple pigment to your hair, you will neutralize the red and yellow that tend to form, letting out those shades of blue that make the color more natural. Rinse briefly with warm water, so that the hair absorbs the purple dye. Apply the shampoo, leave it on for 5 minutes and then rinse under cold water, which will ensure that the purple pigment sets well on the hair. Make sure you rinse thoroughly or you will stain the towel and you may find your hair lavender if you have it light blonde.
There are different brands and prices, from Clairol Professional Shimmer lightening shampoos, which cost around 8 euros per bottle, to Unite Blonda toning shampoo, which costs around 25 euros. The best option is to buy them in specialty stores and always ask a salesperson for advice
Step 19. Take care of your hair; they will be brittle and dry after being bleached and you will need to use conditioner to moisturize them
Use one bought or homemade, at least once a week; let it sit for 20-30 minutes and then rinse. You can get great results faster, by using the hair dryer while you still have the conditioner on. If you made this using food, make sure it hasn't expired. If you've already had it for a few days (or weeks, if you keep it in the freezer), throw it away and make another one.
Method 2 of 4: Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Step 1. Purchase hydrogen peroxide
It is a chemical compound, also known as hydrogen peroxide, which is used daily in the home, to disinfect wounds or to remove stains; you can also use it to bleach your hair. You can easily buy it at the supermarket or pharmacy, and it costs no more than 1.50 euros per bottle. Check that the peroxide contained in the bottle does not exceed 3% or you risk damaging your hair.
Step 2. Start with untreated hair
No matter which method you use, your hair will dry out and become more brittle than usual. Starting with healthy hair prevents excessive damage caused by bleaching. Do not dye or otherwise treat your hair for about a month before bleaching. Use gentle products, such as shampoo and conditioner made from natural ingredients, so that your hair is as healthy as possible before bleaching.
Step 3. Use a conditioner, one or two days before proceeding with the bleaching; this will help your hair stay hydrated
There are different types, from the cheapest (about 2 Euros) to the most expensive (more than 20 Euros); you can also find some with natural ingredients, such as those from the DIY brand. You can also search online for a method to make your own at home, using food (banana, avocado, mayonnaise, yogurt, eggs, coconut oil, etc.). This step is to reduce frizz and the damage caused by bleaching.
Step 4. Get tested for allergies
You may think this is a waste of time, but it is important to avoid getting a severe rash if you are allergic to any ingredient. To do this, apply some of the dye to the skin area behind the ear. Leave it for 24 to 48 hours and check for any reactions, such as a rash, itching, or burning in that spot. If you have any of these symptoms, try one of the other methods of bleaching your hair.
Step 5. Pour the hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle; use a new one or even a recycled one, the important thing is that it is clean and dry
This way you will be able to apply it to your hair more easily. Use cotton balls for a more precise application. Do a few test sprays to check that the bottle is working properly.
Step 6. Protect your skin and clothing
Hydrogen peroxide could stain clothing and irritate your skin, so be careful. Put on gloves and cover your clothes with an old towel. Apply a little petroleum jelly to your neck and forehead to keep your skin clean.
Step 7. Moisten your hair and divide it into sections
Wet your hair with warm water and pat it dry with a towel; let them dry for a few minutes, so that they are moist but not dripping. Use barrettes to divide your hair into sections; better if you can remove them using only one hand, to make things easier. Leave the section you want to start with loose.
You can also apply coconut oil to your hair to protect it from bleaching damage. To dissolve it, put the closed jar in hot water; it will make it liquid. Put it on your hair and massage your entire head. Wrap them in plastic wrap and leave the oil on for a couple of hours (even better, overnight); there is no need to rinse before applying hydrogen peroxide
Step 8. Test a strand
Take one from the nape of the neck and apply a little hydrogen peroxide; it starts from the roots, up to the tips. Leave on for 20-30 minutes; then rinse the strand and check the color with the help of a towel. This way you can see if you like the color obtained before bleaching the whole head. You will also be able to understand if the shutter speed is sufficient.
Be aware that depending on your natural hair color, the shade of blonde may be different. Dark browns will turn a chestnut brown; using too much hydrogen peroxide could turn them orange. Brown hair will turn light brown; those already light, a dark blond. The red ones will turn out orange and, with the right amount of lightener, they could become a lighter blond; the blond ones will become even lighter
Step 9. Spray the hydrogen peroxide on the hair
Moisten the section of hair with peroxide, spraying it evenly; the more you use, the greater the lightening effect. Do not spray the peroxide directly on the scalp; it will irritate the skin, which is more sensitive in that area. Go slowly, paying attention to how your hair reacts to the product.
- When the first section is well soaked, dissolve the second and spray it with peroxide. Continue until you have sprayed it all over your hair.
- If you only want to lighten a few strands, dip a cotton ball in the peroxide and wipe it on the hair you want to bleach.
- To lighten just a few strands, separate them from the rest of the hair; wrap them in a sheet of aluminum foil, to avoid discoloring other sections and keep them for the entire time of exposure. To make things easier, you could ask a friend to help you.
Step 10. Leave the peroxide on for about 30 minutes
The longer you leave it, the more it will bleach your hair. Do not leave it on for more than 45 minutes; if you feel it irritates your skin, rinse it immediately.
Using a hair dryer or other hot tool can reduce the waiting time to get the desired color. This isn't a necessary step, and anyway, if you're not sure how your hair might react, it's best to skip it
Step 11. Rinse off the peroxide
Use cool water to remove any residue from your hair, then apply a moisturizer to nourish it. Let your hair dry and comb it as usual.
Step 12. Check the color after one week; if it is not what you expected, you can repeat the whole operation
Try to wait at least a week, however, to give your hair time to regenerate, since the bleaching damages them a lot (to the point of making them fall out).
Step 13. Take care of your hair; they will be brittle and dry after being bleached and you will need to use conditioner to moisturize them
Use one bought or homemade, at least once a week; let it sit for 20-30 minutes and then rinse. You can get great results faster by using the hair dryer while you still have the conditioner on. If you made this using food, make sure it hasn't expired. If you've already had it for a few days (or weeks, if you keep it in the freezer), throw it away and make another one.
Method 3 of 4: Go to a hairdresser
Step 1. Get advice from a hairdresser or colorist you can trust; most of them should know how to bleach their hair the right way, but some are better than others
Ask your hairdresser for advice on which method is best for you and how your hair would react to different treatments; also ask if he has enough experience in this field.
You should also inquire about whether your hair is healthy enough to be bleached. Some hairdressers do not lighten those that have recently been treated; they know it would damage them further
Step 2. Decide what shade you would like to achieve; there are many:
white, very light blond, platinum and many others. You can take a photo with you as a model; will help the hairdresser choose the right color.
Step 3. Be prepared to sit for a long time
The hair takes a long time to discolour; it is not an instant process. The hairdresser will first need to wash your hair, prepare the bleaching mixture and apply it. You will need to sit for at least 30 minutes; then he will have to rinse and dry them.
- If your hair is very dark and you want to get a light blonde, you may need to go back to your hairdresser for another session.
- Your hairdresser will surely know how to do the highlights. It's easier to get someone else to do it than to go it alone; can see your entire head and apply the dye evenly on the different strands.
Step 4. Take care of your hair; they will be brittle and dry after being bleached and you will need to use conditioner to moisturize them
Use one bought or homemade, at least once a week; let it sit for 20-30 minutes and then rinse. You can get great results faster by using the hair dryer while you still have the conditioner on. If you made this using food, make sure it hasn't expired. If you've already had it for a few days (or weeks, if you keep it in the freezer), throw it away and make another one.
Method 4 of 4: Using Lemon Juice
Step 1. Start with untreated hair
No matter which method you use, your hair will dry out and become more brittle than usual. Starting with healthy hair prevents excessive damage caused by bleaching. Do not dye or otherwise treat your hair for about a month before bleaching. Use products with natural ingredients, such as shampoo and conditioner, to make sure your hair is healthy enough before starting the operation.
Step 2. Use a conditioner, one or two days before proceeding with the bleaching; this will help your hair stay hydrated
There are different types, from the cheapest (about 2 Euros) to the most expensive (more than 20 Euros); you can also find some with natural ingredients, such as those from the DIY brand. You can also search online for a method to make your own at home, using food (banana, avocado, mayonnaise, yogurt, eggs, coconut oil, etc.). This step is to reduce frizz and the damage caused by bleaching.
Step 3. Squeeze several lemons
Depending on the length of your hair and the color you want to achieve, you may need 2 to 5 lemons. Cut them in half and squeeze them into a cup. Remove the seeds when done.
Do not use ready-made lemon juice; it is rich in preservatives, which could damage the hair
Step 4. Dilute the juice obtained
Pouring pure lemon juice on your hair can dry it out too much, so it's important to dilute it with water. Add as much water as the lemon juice.
Step 5. Pour the solution into a spray bottle
Better to use a new one, which you can find in practically every supermarket, but you can also recycle one you already have at home. If you use a recycled bottle, make sure it is perfectly clean; wash it with soap and water before pouring the lemon solution into it. Shake the lemon solution well, and try spraying a couple of times to make sure the bottle is working well.
Step 6. Apply the solution to your hair
Spray the entire area you want to bleach, making sure it is well moistened. Spray more on the areas you want to lighten the most. The more lemon juice you use, the lighter your hair will become.
If you only want to bleach a few strands, use a cotton ball soaked in lemon juice and wipe it on the sections you want to lighten
Step 7. Sit in the sun
The sun will react with the lemon juice and bleach the hair. Let the solution dry completely, it will take about half an hour. Remember to use sunscreen or clothing to protect yourself from the sun's rays as you bleach your hair. Remember that this process can dry out your hair; staying in the sun for a long time will brighten them, but it will also damage them.
Step 8. Wash your hair
When the lemon juice has dried, wash it off with shampoo and use a moisturizer. Comb them as usual.
Once dry, see what color they have taken. If you want them even clearer, repeat the process after a few days. Don't bleach your hair with lemon juice more than once every two to three weeks
Advice
- Trim your hair after bleaching to get rid of dry ends and make them healthier.
- If you prefer to use natural methods to lighten your hair, try using products you find at home, such as honey, olive oil, and chamomile.
Warnings
- Do not bleach your hair if you suffer from baldness, use Crescina or other products for regrowth or you risk losing it altogether. If you lighten them properly, you shouldn't take any chances, but it may still remain a possibility. If you still don't know how your hair might react, try having it dyed by a professional.
- Remember that the complexion and colors will be different once the operation is finished. The make-up and clothes you wear could be ruined. Skin imperfections tend to remain more visible after a discoloration.
- Some doctors advise against discoloration for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Some chemicals are absorbed by the skin, altering the composition of the milk. The risk of passing these minimal quantities from mother to child is very low; if you are afraid, ask your doctor for advice and look for a more natural solution together.
- Don't try to bleach your brows and lashes. The mixture could get into your eyes and cause irritation or problems. To do this correctly and safely, consult a beautician.
