Bleaching your hair can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to hair dyeing or have never used a bleach kit before. Clairol is a well-known and trusted brand in the hair care industry, offering a range of hair bleach products that can help you achieve the desired results. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to bleach your hair with Clairol, including preparation, application, and aftercare.
Preparation is Key
Before you start bleaching your hair, it’s essential to prepare your hair and scalp for the process. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Check Your Hair Type
Clairol bleach kits are suitable for most hair types, but it’s crucial to check your hair type before applying the bleach. If you have damaged, over-processed, or fragile hair, it’s recommended to use a gentler bleach kit or consult a professional hairstylist.
Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. If you have low hair porosity, it may be challenging for the bleach to penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in uneven color. To check your hair porosity, perform a simple water drop test:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo and towel-dry it.
- Place a single drop of water on your hair strand.
- Observe how quickly the water is absorbed. If it takes a long time, you have low hair porosity.
Choose the Right Bleach Kit
Clairol offers a range of bleach kits, including powder bleach, cream bleach, and oil-based bleach. When choosing a bleach kit, consider the following factors:
- Desired results: If you want to achieve a subtle, natural-looking color, opt for a lower volume developer (10 volume or 20 volume). For more dramatic results, choose a higher volume developer (30 volume or 40 volume).
- Hair length and thickness: If you have long or thick hair, you may need to purchase multiple bleach kits to ensure you have enough product.
- Previous color treatments: If you’ve previously colored or chemically treated your hair, you may need to use a specific bleach kit designed for color-treated hair.
Application and Processing
Once you’ve prepared your hair and chosen the right bleach kit, it’s time to apply the bleach. Follow these steps:
Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections, depending on how many you need to make it manageable. Clip up the top sections using a hair clip, and start applying the bleach to the bottom section.
Mix the Bleach
In a well-ventilated area, mix the bleach powder and developer in a plastic bowl. Be sure to follow the instructions provided with the bleach kit, as the mixing ratio may vary. Always wear gloves when handling bleach to protect your skin from irritation.
Apply the Bleach
Using a tint brush or applicator bottle, apply the bleach mixture to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Be sure to saturate your hair evenly, but avoid overlapping or applying too much bleach to one area.
Processing Time
The processing time will depend on the type of bleach kit you’re using and your desired results. Always follow the instructions provided with the bleach kit, and keep an eye on the processing time to avoid over-processing. Here are some general guidelines:
- 10 volume developer: 20-30 minutes
- 20 volume developer: 30-40 minutes
- 30 volume developer: 40-50 minutes
- 40 volume developer: 50-60 minutes
Aftercare and Maintenance
After bleaching your hair, it’s essential to follow a proper aftercare routine to maintain the health and integrity of your hair.
Shampoo and Condition
After rinsing out the bleach, shampoo your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in moisture and reduce frizz.
Moisturize and Nourish
Bleached hair can be prone to dryness and damage. To combat this, use a hydrating mask once or twice a week, and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair serum to help lock in moisture.
Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage bleached hair, so it’s recommended to avoid using heat styling tools for at least a week after bleaching. If you must use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray to help prevent damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When bleaching your hair with Clairol, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Over-processing: This can cause damage, dryness, and breakage. Always follow the instructions provided with the bleach kit, and keep an eye on the processing time.
- Incorrect mixing ratio: This can affect the desired results and cause uneven color. Always follow the instructions provided with the bleach kit, and mix the bleach and developer carefully.
- Not performing a strand test: This can help you determine the desired results and avoid any unexpected surprises. Always perform a strand test before applying the bleach to your entire head.
By following these steps and tips, you can achieve professional-looking results with Clairol bleach kits. Remember to always follow the instructions provided with the bleach kit, and take necessary precautions to protect your hair and scalp.
What is Clairol and how does it work for bleaching hair?
Clairol is a popular hair care brand that offers a range of hair bleaching products. Clairol hair bleach works by using a combination of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia to break down the pigment in the hair shaft, allowing for a lighter color to be achieved. The bleach penetrates the hair shaft and breaks down the melanin, which is the pigment responsible for hair color.
When using Clairol hair bleach, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the bleach to your entire head. This will help you determine the right amount of time to leave the bleach on and ensure that you achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.
What are the different types of Clairol hair bleach available?
Clairol offers a range of hair bleach products, including powder bleach, cream bleach, and oil-based bleach. Powder bleach is the most common type and is usually mixed with a developer to create the bleaching solution. Cream bleach is a more gentle option and is often used for touch-ups or for bleaching specific sections of hair. Oil-based bleach is a newer type of bleach that is designed to be gentler on the hair and scalp.
When choosing a Clairol hair bleach, consider your hair type and the level of lift you want to achieve. If you have virgin hair or are looking for a more dramatic color change, powder bleach may be the best option. If you have previously colored or damaged hair, cream bleach or oil-based bleach may be a better choice.
How do I prepare my hair for bleaching with Clairol?
Before bleaching your hair with Clairol, it’s essential to prepare your hair properly. This includes washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup, towel-drying your hair, and applying a pre-bleach treatment to help open up the hair cuticle. You should also wear old clothing and apply a barrier cream to your skin to protect it from any accidental bleach spills.
It’s also crucial to perform a strand test before applying the bleach to your entire head. This will help you determine the right amount of time to leave the bleach on and ensure that you achieve the desired results without damaging your hair. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions to protect your hair and skin.
How long does it take to bleach hair with Clairol?
The time it takes to bleach hair with Clairol can vary depending on the type of bleach you’re using, the length and thickness of your hair, and the level of lift you want to achieve. On average, it can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes to bleach hair with Clairol. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and keep an eye on the processing time to avoid over-processing your hair.
When using Clairol hair bleach, it’s better to err on the side of caution and start with a shorter processing time. You can always reapply the bleach if you need to achieve a lighter color, but you can’t undo over-processing. Be sure to keep an eye on the processing time and rinse the bleach out as soon as it’s finished.
What are the risks associated with bleaching hair with Clairol?
Bleaching hair with Clairol can come with some risks, including damage to the hair shaft, dryness, and breakage. Over-processing can cause the hair to become brittle and prone to breakage, while under-processing can result in uneven color. There’s also a risk of allergic reactions or irritation to the scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.
To minimize the risks associated with bleaching hair with Clairol, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions. This includes performing a strand test, wearing old clothing, and applying a barrier cream to your skin. Be sure to moisturize your hair after bleaching and consider using a hair mask to help restore moisture and shine.
How do I care for my hair after bleaching with Clairol?
After bleaching your hair with Clairol, it’s essential to care for your hair properly to maintain the color and health of your hair. This includes using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, moisturizing your hair with a hair mask, and avoiding heat styling tools. You should also consider using a color-depositing treatment to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair.
When washing your hair, be sure to use cold water and avoid using hot water, which can strip the hair of its color. You should also avoid using harsh hair products or those that contain sulfates, parabens, or silicones, which can dry out the hair and cause damage. By following these tips, you can help maintain the health and color of your hair after bleaching with Clairol.
Can I bleach my hair at home with Clairol, or should I go to a salon?
While it’s possible to bleach your hair at home with Clairol, it’s recommended to go to a salon if you’re new to hair bleaching or if you’re looking for a more dramatic color change. A professional stylist has the training and experience to help you achieve the desired results and minimize the risks associated with hair bleaching.
If you do decide to bleach your hair at home with Clairol, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions. This includes performing a strand test, wearing old clothing, and applying a barrier cream to your skin. It’s also essential to be patient and not to rush the process, as this can lead to uneven color or damage to the hair.