Step-by-Step Guide to Bleaching Hair Dyed with Demi-Permanent Color

Bleaching hair that has been dyed with demi-permanent color can be a challenging task given the nature of demi-permanent dyes, which partially penetrate the hair shaft. Follow these detailed steps to safely and effectively bleach your hair:

Assess Your Hair Condition

1. Check for Damage: Ensure your hair is in good condition. Avoid bleaching if your hair is overly damaged or fragile. In such cases, consider doing a deep conditioning treatment before bleaching to protect your hair.

Gather Your Supplies

2. Bleach Powder: Opt for high-quality bleach powder. Choose a product suitable for demi-permanent colors.

3. Developer: Select a 20 or 30 volume developer based on the desired results. Higher volumes will lighten your hair more dramatically.

4. Mixing Bowl and Brush: Use these for mixing and applying the bleach evenly.

5. Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the bleach.

6. Plastic Cap: Use this to cover your hair during the processing stage.

7. Toner: This is essential for neutralizing any unwanted yellow or brassy tones post-bleaching.

Perform a Strand Test

8. Perform a Strand Test: Do a patch test on a small, inconspicuous section of your hair. This will help you see how your hair reacts and what color it turns. This step is crucial to prevent unwanted results on the rest of your hair.

Prepare Your Hair

9. Avoid Washing: Do not wash your hair a day or two before bleaching. Natural oils will help protect your scalp during the process.

10. Detangle: Gently detangle your hair to prevent breakage during the bleaching process.

Mix the Bleach

11. Mix the Bleach: Follow the instructions on your bleach powder and developer for creating the mixture. The typical ratio is 1:2, but adjust as necessary for your specific product.

Apply the Bleach

12. Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections for even application. This will ensure the bleach is distributed evenly.

13. Apply Quickly: Use the brush to apply the bleach mixture, starting from the tips and moving upward. Roots process faster due to the heat from your scalp, so leave them for last if you have long hair.

Monitor Processing Time

14. Monitor Processing Time: Keep an eye on the color change. Do not exceed the recommended processing time, usually 20-45 minutes. Exceeding this can cause damage to your hair.

Rinse and Condition

15. Rinse the Bleach: Once you reach your desired lightness, rinse the bleach out thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow up with a deep conditioner to restore moisture.

Tone Your Hair

16. Tone Your Hair: After bleaching, your hair may have unwanted warm tones. Use a toner to achieve your desired shade. Follow the instructions on the toner for application and processing time.

Aftercare

17. Aftercare: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair to maintain your new color and keep your hair healthy. Regularly deep condition to restore moisture and prevent damage.

Safety Tips: Consult a Professional: If you are unsure or if your hair is in poor condition, it might be best to consult a professional hairstylist.
Be Patient: If you want to go significantly lighter, consider doing it in stages to minimize damage.

By following these steps, you can effectively bleach your hair that has been previously dyed with demi-permanent color while minimizing damage and achieving the desired result. Remember, proper preparation and aftercare are key to maintaining healthy, vibrant hair post-bleaching.