Bleaching dyed dark brown hair can be a daunting task, especially if you’re looking to achieve a drastic color change. Whether you’re a seasoned hair enthusiast or a novice looking to try a new look, understanding the process and risks involved is crucial. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hair bleaching, exploring the possibilities and limitations of bleaching dyed dark brown hair.
Understanding Hair Bleaching
Hair bleaching is a chemical process that involves breaking down the pigment in your hair to achieve a lighter color. There are several types of bleach, including:
Types of Bleach
- Oxide-based bleach: This is the most common type of bleach and is available in various strengths. It works by releasing oxygen ions that break down the pigment in your hair.
- Ammonia-based bleach: This type of bleach is stronger than oxide-based bleach and is often used for more drastic color changes. However, it can be harsher on your hair and scalp.
- Oil-based bleach: This type of bleach is gentler than oxide-based bleach and is often used for balayage and other highlighting techniques.
Can You Bleach Dyed Dark Brown Hair?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes, but with some caveats. Bleaching dyed dark brown hair can be a challenging process, and the results may vary depending on several factors, including:
Factors Affecting Bleaching Results
- Previous color treatments: If you’ve had your hair colored or chemically treated in the past, it may affect the bleaching process. Previous color treatments can cause your hair to be more resistant to bleach, leading to uneven or unpredictable results.
- Porosity of your hair: Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. If your hair has low porosity, it may be more difficult to bleach, as the bleach may not penetrate evenly.
- Condition of your hair: If your hair is damaged or over-processed, it may be more prone to breakage or damage during the bleaching process.
The Risks of Bleaching Dyed Dark Brown Hair
Bleaching dyed dark brown hair can be a high-risk process, especially if you’re looking to achieve a drastic color change. Some of the risks involved include:
Possible Risks
- Damage to your hair: Bleaching can cause significant damage to your hair, including breakage, dryness, and frizz.
- Unpredictable results: Bleaching dyed dark brown hair can be unpredictable, and the results may vary depending on several factors, including the type of bleach used and the condition of your hair.
- Scalp irritation: Bleach can cause irritation to your scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.
How to Bleach Dyed Dark Brown Hair Safely
If you’re still determined to bleach your dyed dark brown hair, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risks involved:
Pre-Bleaching Preparation
- Consult a professional: If you’re new to hair bleaching, it’s highly recommended that you consult a professional stylist who has experience with bleaching dyed dark brown hair.
- Perform a strand test: Before applying bleach to your entire head, perform a strand test to determine the best course of action and to check for any allergic reactions.
- Use a pre-bleach treatment: Applying a pre-bleach treatment can help to open up your hair cuticles and allow the bleach to penetrate more evenly.
Post-Bleaching Care
After bleaching your dyed dark brown hair, it’s essential to take good care of your hair to minimize damage and promote healthy growth:
Post-Bleaching Tips
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on your hair and can help to maintain moisture and hydration.
- Apply a hair mask: A hair mask can help to nourish and moisturize your hair, reducing the risk of damage and breakage.
- Avoid heat styling: Heat styling can cause further damage to your hair, so it’s best to avoid it for at least a few weeks after bleaching.
Alternatives to Bleaching
If you’re not ready to take the plunge and bleach your dyed dark brown hair, there are several alternatives you can consider:
Alternative Hair Color Options
- Highlights or lowlights: Adding highlights or lowlights can help to add dimension and texture to your hair without the need for bleaching.
- Balayage: Balayage is a freehand highlighting technique that can help to add a natural, sun-kissed look to your hair.
- Semi-permanent or demi-permanent color: Semi-permanent or demi-permanent color can help to add a pop of color to your hair without the need for bleaching.
In conclusion, bleaching dyed dark brown hair can be a challenging process, but with the right preparation and care, it’s possible to achieve a beautiful, lighter color. Remember to always consult a professional stylist, perform a strand test, and take good care of your hair after bleaching to minimize damage and promote healthy growth.
Can I bleach my dark brown hair at home?
Bleaching dark brown hair at home can be a bit tricky and may not always produce the desired results. It’s recommended to consult a professional hairstylist, especially if you’re looking for a drastic color change. However, if you still want to try it at home, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the bleach to your entire head.
It’s also essential to note that bleaching dark hair can be damaging, so it’s crucial to take necessary precautions to minimize the damage. Use a high-quality bleach and follow the instructions carefully. Also, be prepared for the possibility that your hair may not turn out as light as you want it to, especially if you’re trying to achieve a platinum blonde color.
How long does it take to bleach dark brown hair?
The time it takes to bleach dark brown hair depends on several factors, including the length and thickness of your hair, the type of bleach you’re using, and the desired level of lift. On average, it can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes to bleach dark brown hair, but it may take longer if you’re trying to achieve a more drastic color change.
It’s also important to note that bleaching dark hair can be a process that requires multiple sessions. You may need to bleach your hair multiple times to achieve the desired level of lift, and each session can take several hours. Be patient and don’t rush the process, as over-processing your hair can cause damage and breakage.
What are the risks of bleaching dark brown hair?
Bleaching dark brown hair can be damaging, especially if it’s done incorrectly. Some of the risks include over-processing, which can cause breakage, dryness, and frizz. Bleach can also strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. Additionally, bleaching dark hair can cause it to become porous, leading to uneven color distribution and frizz.
To minimize the risks, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions. Use a high-quality bleach and follow the instructions carefully. Also, make sure to moisturize your hair before and after the bleaching process to minimize damage. Consider getting a professional hairstylist to do the job for you, as they have the training and experience to minimize the risks.
How do I prepare my hair for bleaching?
To prepare your hair for bleaching, it’s essential to moisturize it thoroughly. Use a deep conditioning treatment a week before the bleaching process to help lock in moisture. Avoid using heat styling tools and harsh chemicals in the weeks leading up to the bleaching process, as they can cause damage and dryness.
On the day of the bleaching process, make sure to wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Towel-dry your hair and apply a pre-bleach treatment to help open up the hair cuticle and allow the bleach to penetrate more evenly. Follow the instructions carefully, and make sure to perform a strand test before applying the bleach to your entire head.
Can I bleach my dark brown hair to platinum blonde?
Bleaching dark brown hair to platinum blonde can be challenging, especially if you’re trying to do it at home. It may require multiple sessions and a high-lift bleach to achieve the desired level of lift. However, it’s not impossible, and many people have successfully bleached their dark brown hair to platinum blonde.
To achieve a platinum blonde color, you’ll need to use a high-lift bleach and follow the instructions carefully. You may also need to use a toner to achieve the desired shade of blonde. Be prepared for the possibility that your hair may not turn out as light as you want it to, especially if you’re trying to achieve a platinum blonde color.
How do I care for my hair after bleaching?
After bleaching your hair, it’s essential to care for it properly to minimize damage and dryness. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using heat styling tools for at least a week after the bleaching process. Use a hydrating mask once a week to help lock in moisture and reduce frizz.
Also, consider using a color-depositing treatment to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair. Avoid using harsh chemicals or products that contain sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness. Be gentle when combing or brushing your hair, as it may be more prone to breakage after the bleaching process.
Can I bleach my dark brown hair if it’s been previously colored?
Bleaching previously colored hair can be challenging, especially if the previous color was a dark or permanent dye. The bleach may not penetrate evenly, and the color may not turn out as desired. However, it’s not impossible, and many people have successfully bleached their previously colored hair.
To bleach previously colored hair, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the bleach to your entire head. You may need to use a color remover or a bleach specifically designed for previously colored hair. Be prepared for the possibility that your hair may not turn out as light as you want it to, especially if the previous color was a dark or permanent dye.