Lightening Orangey Blonde Hair: The Choice Between Bleach and Developer

For those with orangey blonde hair, the decision between using bleach or a 20 volume developer can greatly impact the outcome of your hair lightening process. Understanding the differences and recommended methods will help you achieve the best results while minimizing damage to your hair.

Bleach vs. 20 Volume Developer

When it comes to lightening hair, the choice between bleach and a 20 volume developer is crucial. Bleaching your hair is more effective at removing unwanted warmth, such as the orange tones, while a 20 volume developer is better for gradual color lifting.

Bleach

Bleach is a powerful tool for removing color and lightening hair. It works by lifting the cuticles of the hair strand, allowing the color to be expelled. When mixed with a developer, the strength of the bleach can be adjusted, with a standard 20 volume developer being used for moderate lifting. If you want to achieve a significant lightening effect, a 20 volume developer combined with bleach is your best option.

20 Volume Developer

A 20 volume developer is typically used with hair dye to lift the color by about 1-2 levels. While it can help lighten your hair, it may not be sufficient for achieving the desired results if you are aiming for a much lighter shade. This can be a good option if you only need a slight adjustment in tone.

Recommendations for Lightening Your Hair

Based on your goals, here are some recommendations for lightening your orangey blonde hair:

If You Want to Achieve a Lighter Blonde

Use a combination of bleach and a 20 volume developer. This combination will provide more lift and help neutralize the orange tones. Ensure that you do a strand test first to see how your hair reacts to the process. For best results, consider consulting a professional stylist, as they can guide you through the process more effectively, especially if you are uncertain.

If You Are Looking for a Slight Adjustment

A 20 volume developer with a toner or a lightening dye might work, but the results may be more limited. In this case, you should also consider a strand test to ensure the process won't damage your hair too much. Deep conditioning your hair between bleaching sessions is also crucial to maintain its health.

Caution and Tips for Hair Lightening

It's important to approach this process with caution. Bleaching can be very harsh on your hair, especially if you have been bleaching it frequently. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of damage:

Do a Strand Test: Always test on a small section of hair to see how it reacts. Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about the process, consulting a professional stylist is highly recommended. They have the expertise to guide you and ensure the best results. Time Between Bleaching Episodes: Deep condition your hair and possibly apply a protein treatment in between bleaching sessions. Post-Bleach Maintenance: Once you reach the desired level of lightness, tone your hair to remove any leftover orange or yellow tones. Continue to maintain your hair with regular deep conditioning and protein treatments.

By following these guidelines, you can achieve the desired lighter blonde look while minimizing the risk of damage to your hair. Remember, the key to successful hair lightening is patience, preparation, and the right professional advice.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to use bleach or a 20 volume developer, the process of lightening your orangey blonde hair requires careful consideration and preparation. By understanding the differences between the two methods and following the recommended steps, you can achieve a beautiful, even lighter shade without compromising the health of your hair.