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So, you are ready to go blonde? Before you break open the bleaching kit, you need to prepare your hair. Postpone the bleaching a bit to make sure your hair is ready for it and you will be rewarded with luscious, shiny blonde locks rather than frizzy split ends.
Timing
Bleaching, even done professionally, can wreak havoc on your tresses. If you have lightened or bleached your hair in the past three to six months and then dyed it again, bleaching is something you should avoid for at least six months, according to the beauty professionals at Faux Blondes.
Test Strands
Not all hair can withstand the damage from chemical bleaching products. If your hair has been previously lightened or chemically treated, it is imperative to do a test before dyeing your hair – unless you want to give yourself a “chemical hair cut.” Pull on a few strands of hair at the base. Give them a tug – if they hold well against the tension, your hair isn’t too damaged for bleach, but if the strands break or snap easily, your hair will not be able to withstand the bleach.
Condition
The chemicals used in bleaching will strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Use a deep-conditioning treatment one week prior to bleaching to help add extra moisture and protect your hair. Leave the deep conditioner on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing it out.
The Day of Bleaching
Do not shampoo or condition your hair the day of bleaching. Too much conditioner in the hair will prevent the bleach from adhering and ultimately stripping the hair of color. That day, keep your hair clear of styling products such as waxes, mousse, hairspray and styling serum. Wash everything out the night before and leave your hair natural the day of bleaching.
