If you want to bleach your hair but it's already damaged, you need to take extra precautions to avoid further damage. In this article, we'll show you how to properly prepare your hair for bleaching.
Table of Contents
- How to Prepare Damaged Hair for Bleaching
- Step by Step Guide
- Tips to Keep in Mind
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Bleaching
How to Prepare Damaged Hair for Bleaching
The first step in preparing damaged hair for bleaching is to assess the level of damage. Bleaching can cause further damage to already weakened hair, resulting in breakage, split ends, and dryness. If your hair is severely damaged, it's best to wait until it's healthier before attempting to bleach it.
Next, you need to make sure your hair is in good condition before bleaching. This means nourishing your hair with protein treatments and deep conditioning. You can use products specifically designed for damaged hair, such as hair masks and leave-in conditioners. These products will help to repair and strengthen your hair, making it less prone to damage during the bleaching process.
Step by Step Guide
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your damaged hair for bleaching:
- Assess the level of damage to your hair
- Nourish your hair with protein treatments and deep conditioning
- Wait until your hair is in better condition if it's severely damaged
- Do a strand test to determine the right amount of bleach to use
- Protect your scalp and skin with petroleum jelly or a barrier cream
- Apply the bleach carefully, starting from the ends and working your way up
- Monitor the bleach closely and rinse it off as soon as your hair reaches the desired level of lightness
- Deep condition your hair again after bleaching to help repair any damage
Tips to Keep in Mind
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when preparing damaged hair for bleaching:
- Use a lower volume developer to minimize damage
- Avoid overlapping the bleach on previously bleached hair to prevent breakage
- Don't bleach your hair too frequently, as this can lead to further damage
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your hair after bleaching
- Be patient and take your time with the bleaching process
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing damaged hair for bleaching:
- Can I bleach my hair if it's already damaged? Yes, but you need to take extra precautions to avoid further damage.
- How do I know if my hair is too damaged to bleach? If your hair is breaking off, has split ends, and is extremely dry, it's best to wait until it's healthier before attempting to bleach it.
- What should I do if my hair breaks off during the bleaching process? Rinse the bleach off immediately and deep condition your hair. It's best to seek professional help if your hair is severely damaged.
Hair Care After Bleaching
After bleaching your hair, it's important to take good care of it to prevent further damage. Here are some tips for caring for bleached hair:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils
- Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it moisturized and nourished
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your hair, or use them sparingly
- Protect your hair from the sun and chlorine by wearing a hat or using a swim cap
- Trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends and breakage