What Products to Use After Bleaching Hair

What Happens to Hair During Bleaching?

Bleaching is a chemical process that strips the natural pigment from hair, leaving it lighter in color. The active ingredient in bleach is usually hydrogen peroxide or ammonia, which penetrates the hair shaft and oxidizes the melanin that gives hair its color. This process raises the cuticle layer of the hair, making it more porous.

While bleaching can dramatically transform hair color, it also causes significant damage:

• Bleach breaks down the disulfide bonds in keratin, the protein that makes up hair. This weakens the hair’s structure.
• The chemicals in bleach remove the natural oils that keep hair moisturized, leading to dryness and brittleness.
• Raised cuticles make hair more prone to tangling, breakage, and split ends.
• Bleaching can irritate or burn the scalp in some cases.

The more frequently hair is bleached, and the higher the volume of developer used, the more damage it will sustain. Hair that was previously healthy will feel drier and rougher after bleaching. Strands will be more fragile and prone to snapping.

What Should You Do Immediately After Bleaching?

The first 48 hours after bleaching are critical for restoring moisture and minimizing the risk of further damage. Here are the steps to take immediately after bleaching:

1. Rinse hair thoroughly with cool water until no more bleach comes out and the water runs clear. Avoid using hot water, which can further dry out hair.
2. Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel. Do not rub hair, as this can cause tangles and breakage.
3. Apply a deep conditioning mask or treatment formulated for bleached hair. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, argan oil, keratin, and proteins. Leave on for at least 15-30 minutes, then rinse out with cool water.
4. Air dry hair if possible, as heat styling can increase damage. If you must blow dry, use the lowest heat setting and a heat protectant product.
5. Wait at least 48 hours before shampooing hair to avoid stripping away natural oils. When you do wash, use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and cool water.
6. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction that can rough up the hair cuticle and cause tangles. You can also wear a silk scarf or bonnet to bed.

Avoid swimming, direct sunlight, and heat styling for the first few days after bleaching. Stay away from hair elastics, tight styles, and brushing hair when wet, as these can all lead to breakage.

How Can You Hydrate and Moisturize Bleached Hair?

Bleached hair is very porous and dry, so it requires extra moisture to look and feel its best. Here are some of the most effective ways to hydrate bleached strands:

Use a Deep Conditioning Mask 1-2 Times Per Week

Hair masks are thicker and more concentrated than regular conditioners. They are designed to penetrate the hair shaft and deliver intense hydration. Look for masks that contain:

• Humectants like glycerin and honey to attract moisture
• Emollients like shea butter and oils to smooth and soften
• Proteins to temporarily patch up damaged areas
• Vitamins and antioxidants to nourish hair

Apply masks to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Leave on for at least 20 minutes (or as directed), then rinse thoroughly with cool water. For best results, use a mask in place of regular conditioner 1-2 times per week.

Try an Overnight Oil Treatment

Natural oils like coconut, argan, jojoba, and almond oil can penetrate the hair shaft and provide long-lasting moisture. For an overnight treatment:

1. Warm 2-3 tablespoons of oil in the microwave for a few seconds until lukewarm (not hot).
2. Massage oil into damp hair, focusing on the ends.
3. Cover hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap.
4. Leave treatment on overnight or for at least 2 hours.
5. Shampoo hair in the morning and follow with conditioner.

Overnight oil treatments are very effective at softening and moisturizing bleached hair. Repeat once per week or as needed.

Use Leave-In Conditioners and Oils Daily

In addition to regular washing and deep conditioning, bleached hair benefits from daily hydration. Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil on damp or dry hair to add moisture, softness, and shine.

Look for leave-in products that are lightweight and non-greasy. Oils like argan, marula, and jojoba work well for daily use since they absorb quickly. Apply a small amount to the mid-lengths and ends of hair, avoiding the roots. You can use leave-in conditioners and oils on damp hair before air or blow drying, or smooth a small amount over dry hair to add shine and tame frizz.

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is important for your overall health and the condition of your hair. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day will help your body deliver moisture and nutrients to your hair follicles. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats for optimal hair health.

What Are the Best Shampoos for Bleached Hair?

Shampoos for bleached hair should be gentle, sulfate-free, and specially formulated to restore moisture and prevent color fading. Here are some of the best options:

When shampooing bleached hair, concentrate the product at the scalp and roots. Avoid piling hair on top of your head, as this can cause tangles. Gently massage shampoo into the scalp using the pads of your fingers (not nails). Rinse thoroughly with cool water. Limit shampooing to 2-3 times per week to avoid stripping moisture.

What Are the Best Conditioners for Bleached Hair?

Conditioners for bleached hair should be rich, reparative, and color-safe. Here are some top picks:

After shampooing, wring out excess water and apply conditioner from the mid-lengths to ends of hair. Avoid the roots, as this can weigh hair down. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle hair and distribute the product evenly. Leave on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.

For an extra dose of moisture, apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair before styling. Look for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh hair down. Spray or smooth through the mid-lengths and ends, then style as usual.

What Protein Treatments Are Best for Strengthening Bleached Hair?

Protein treatments help to temporarily fill in gaps in the hair cuticle and strengthen strands from the inside out. They are especially beneficial for bleached hair, which is more prone to breakage. Here are some effective protein treatments:

Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment

This salon-grade treatment contains hydrolyzed proteins that penetrate the hair shaft and harden to strengthen strands. It is applied to damp hair, then blow dried and flat ironed to seal in the proteins. The treatment is rinsed out after 20 minutes. Aphogee Two-Step is very powerful and should only be used every 6-8 weeks to avoid over-proteining hair.

Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector

Olaplex is a bond-building treatment that restores the disulfide bonds broken during bleaching. No.3 is a take-home version that can be used weekly to strengthen and repair damaged hair. Apply to damp hair, leave on for at least 10 minutes, then shampoo and condition as usual. Olaplex No.3 is safe for all hair types and can be used more frequently than protein treatments.

DIY Gelatin Protein Treatment

For a budget-friendly option, you can make a protein treatment at home using unflavored gelatin powder. Mix 1 tablespoon of gelatin with 1 cup of warm water until dissolved. Apply to clean, damp hair and leave on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water, then shampoo and condition as usual. Gelatin treatments can be done every 2-4 weeks.

Protein treatments should be used sparingly, as too much protein can make hair brittle and more prone to breakage. Alternate protein treatments with deep conditioning masks to keep hair balanced and healthy.

How Do You Maintain Color for Bleached Hair With Toners?

Toners are semi-permanent dyes that neutralize unwanted brassy or yellow tones in bleached hair. They can also be used to add subtle color, like ash or pearl blonde hues. Toners typically last 4-8 weeks, depending on how often you wash your hair.

To maintain your toner and keep bleached hair looking fresh, follow these tips:

• Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping toner.
• Wash hair with cool water to prevent fading and seal the cuticle.
• Use a purple shampoo or conditioner once per week to neutralize brassy tones. Be careful not to overuse these products, as they can deposit too much purple pigment over time.
• Apply a color-depositing gloss or glaze every 2-4 weeks to refresh toner and add shine.
• Get regular toner touch-ups at the salon every 6-8 weeks, or as needed.

Some popular toning products for bleached hair include:

• Wella Color Charm Toner
• Redken Shades EQ Gloss
• Matrix SoColor Sync Pre-Bonded Toner
• Pravana The Perfect Blonde Toning Shampoo
• Fanola No Yellow Shampoo

Toners work best on hair that is a pale yellow or level 10 blonde. If your hair is too dark or orange, you may need to bleach it again before applying toner. Always follow the instructions carefully and do a strand test first to avoid over-toning or damaging hair.

How Can You Protect Bleached Hair From UV and Heat Damage?

Bleached hair is more vulnerable to damage from UV rays and heat styling tools. To protect your hair and keep it looking healthy, follow these tips:

Use a Heat Protectant Spray

Before using any hot tools like blow dryers, flat irons, or curling wands, always apply a heat protectant spray to damp or dry hair. These products create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing damage and breakage. Look for sprays that contain silicones, which can smooth the cuticle and add shine.

Some good heat protectant sprays for bleached hair include:

• Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray
• Redken Pillow Proof Blow Dry Express Primer Spray
• Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

Limit Heat Styling

Try to air dry your hair whenever possible, and limit heat styling to 1-2 times per week. When you do use hot tools, keep the temperature below 350°F (180°C) to minimize damage. Use the lowest heat setting that still allows you to style your hair effectively.

Wear a Hat or Use UV Protection Products

The sun’s UV rays can fade hair color and cause dryness and breakage. Protect your hair by wearing a hat or scarf when spending time outdoors. You can also use hair products that contain UV filters, such as:

• Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
• Kiehl’s Stylist Series Cream with Silk Groom
• Coola Organic Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30

Avoid Chlorine and Salt Water

Chlorine and salt water can strip color and moisture from bleached hair. Before swimming, wet your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a protective barrier. Wear a swim cap if possible. After swimming, rinse hair thoroughly with fresh water and shampoo and condition as soon as possible.

What Are the Best Daily Maintenance Tips for Bleached Hair?

To keep bleached hair looking and feeling its best, follow these daily maintenance tips:

• Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent tangles and breakage while you sleep.
• Brush hair gently with a wide-tooth comb or soft bristle brush, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. Avoid brushing wet hair, as this can cause stretching and breakage.
• Limit washing to 2-3 times per week to avoid stripping moisture. Use dry shampoo in between washes to absorb oil and add volume.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to damp hair before styling to add moisture and protect against heat damage.
• Use a deep conditioning mask or protein treatment once per week to keep hair hydrated and strong.
• Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and keep hair looking healthy.
• Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails or buns that can put stress on fragile strands and cause breakage.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to nourish hair from the inside out. Take a biotin supplement to support healthy hair growth.

What Are the Top Product Recommendations for Bleached Hair?

Here are some of the best products for maintaining bleached hair:

Shampoos

• Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo
• L’Oreal EverPure Blonde Shampoo
• Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra-Violet Shampoo

Conditioners

• Moroccanoil Blonde Perfecting Purple Conditioner
• Amika Bust Your Brass Cool Blonde Conditioner
• Davines Heart of Glass Conditioner

Deep Conditioning Masks

• Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask
• Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask
• Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask

Leave-In Conditioners

• It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product
• Ouai Leave-In Conditioner
• Redken One United All-in-One Multi-Benefit Treatment

Hair Oils

• Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil
• Verb Ghost Oil
• Kérastase Elixir Ultime Oil

Heat Protectants

• Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray
• Redken Pillow Proof Blow Dry Express Primer Spray
• Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

Toners

• Wella Color Charm Toner
• Redken Shades EQ Gloss
• Matrix SoColor Sync Pre-Bonded Toner

Protein Treatments

• Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment
• Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector
• Nexxus Keraphix Damage Healing Treatment

Remember, everyone’s hair is different, so what works for someone else may not work for you. It may take some trial and error to find the right products and routine for your bleached hair. Be patient and consistent, and your hair will thank you!

To maintaining healthy bleached hair is to:

1. Use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner
2. Deep condition with masks and treatments weekly
3. Apply leave-in conditioners and oils for daily moisture
4. Use protein treatments occasionally to strengthen hair
5. Minimize heat styling and always use heat protectant
6. Get regular trims to remove split ends
7. Protect hair from the sun, chlorine, and salt water
8. Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated for hair health from the inside out

With the right care and products, you can keep your bleached hair looking soft, shiny, and vibrant. It may take some extra effort, but the results are worth it! Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for your unique hair needs.