Preventing Bleach Damage on Previously Lightened Hair: Expert Tips and Techniques

Bleaching newly grown hair can sometimes lead to accidental damage to previously lightened areas. This guide will offer expert advice to prevent such issues, ensuring a safe and beautiful hair color experience.

Consulting a Professional Hair Colorist

Whenever possible, working with a professional hair colorist is the best approach. They can handle the bleaching of new growth gently and avoid damaging previously lightened hair. However, this can be costly. Several options are available to reduce expenses:

Cosmetology Schools: Many offer lower rates for hair services, making them a cost-effective choice for needed bleaching. Discounted Services: During the pandemic, some hair colorists offer discounted services if you ask. This can be a great way to save money. Home Help: In cases where professional services are not possible, consider asking a friend or family member to assist you during the project.

Preparation Before Bleaching

Proper preparation can significantly reduce the risk of accidental damage:

Avoid Washing Two Days Before Bleaching: Washing your hair removes the natural oils that protect your scalp, leaving it more prone to irritation and potential damage. Deep Conditioning: Perform a deep conditioning treatment a week before planning to bleach your hair. This step helps maintain hair integrity and minimizes damage. Coconut Oil Pre-Treatment: Applying a coconut oil pre-highlighting treatment helps protect your scalp and hair. Leave it on for an hour or overnight. Maintain a Protective Barrier: If you are worried about preventing additional damage, leave the coconut oil in your hair before applying bleach.

Safeguarding the Application Process

The following techniques help ensure that you apply the bleach only to the new growth:

Cream Based Lightener: Choose a cream-based lightener over a power bleach for better control during root touch-ups. Hair Foils: Use traditional bleaching foils to separate the roots, making it easier to target new growth. Thick Protective Conditioner: Apply a thick border of protective conditioner as a boundary marker. While this method may not be as safe as foils, it can work. Clipping Sections: Use clips to separate root sections from previously bleached areas, but be cautious with the method. Cotton Swabs: Dab very small sections of the roots with cotton swabs, being careful not to touch previously bleached sections or the scalp.

Remember to Paint or Dab Roots Close To the Hair, Not the Scalp: This step is crucial to avoid potential chemical burns.

Using Olaplex for Hair Repair

To protect your hair from the damaging effects of bleach, using Olaplex is highly recommended:

Olaplex Bond Multiplier: This product minimizes damage and repairs hair during the bleaching or coloring process. No 1 Bond Multiplier: When added to your lightener or bleach, Olaplex allows hair to lift higher without serious damage. Protection and Growth: It reconstructs previously broken bonds and protects strands from further damage, enabling healthier hair growth.

Wishing you a successful and safe bleaching experience.

Disclaimer: While these tips are intended to help, results may vary based on individual hair conditions and techniques used.