I. Introduction
Bleach baths have become one of the most popular types of hair lightening techniques for those seeking to achieve a light, beachy look. They use bleach to remove pigment from your hair making it lighter and give a less intense color. That said, knowing how to do a bleach bath correctly is essential. In this article, we share with you everything you need to know about bleach baths, along with a step-by-step guide to perform them safely and effectively.
II. What is a bleach bath?
A bleach bath is a type of hair lightening treatment that involves mixing bleach powder with shampoo and water to create a more mild bleach solution. The solution is then applied to your hair and rinsed out after a certain period of time, up to 30 minutes, and it’s used to remove hair color or to lighten hair that has been dyed too dark. A bleach bath is a convenient way of brightening dull hair, especially for those who don’t want a drastic change. It is also less expensive than going to a professional hairdresser.
Every method used to lighten hair comes with its risks. Bleach baths are no exception. When using bleach in any manner, it’s essential to take caution when performing the application. Overusing it or keeping it on for too long can cause damage and breakage. That said, for most people, a bleach bath is a relatively safe option.
III. Step-by-Step Guide
Here are the steps to follow when performing a bleach bath.
Step 1: Choose the right products
The most important part of any bleach bath is choosing the right products. You’ll need powdered bleach that comes in a sachet or tub. Some powder bleach come with a developer, but if you buy one without a developer, you’ll need to purchase it separately. Alternatively, you can use a bleach kit that has everything you need. Adding shampoo to the mix is necessary, so make sure it suits your hair type. Choose a salon-grade clarifying shampoo that’s gentle on your hair, colour-safe and sulfate-free. It’s also necessary to have gloves and a hairbrush at hand.
Step 2: Prepare your workspace
Bleach can be harmful to the skin, so you’ll want to prepare your workspace before you start. Wear gloves to keep the bleach from getting onto your hands, cover any exposed surfaces with old towels, and make sure the room is well-ventilated to prevent fumes from building up.
Step 3: Mix the ingredients together
Once you have all the necessary items, it’s time to mix them together. To do so, pour the bleach powder in a mixing bowl and then add developer to activate the powder. After that, add the shampoo and mix the combination well. The result should be a smooth, even consistency.
Step 4: Brush and distribute the mixture
Distribute the mixture evenly throughout your hair using a hairbrush. Ensure to start at the roots and work down towards the ends. Thoroughly work the mixture in, but avoid rubbing your scalp.
Step 5: Wait for the bleach to take effect
The duration for bleach baths varies from 10-30 minutes, depending on the desired outcome or your current hair color. Make sure you read the instructions on your product packaging for clarity. It’s important to time the process carefully to avoid over-processing or under-processing the hair.
Step 6: Rinse your hair
Once the bleach has developed, it’s time to rinse it off thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water. Rinse your hair with the same water temperature you used when washing your hair with the mixture. The cool water can help to calm the scalp and reduce any mild irritation that may have occurred. After rinsing out the bleach solution, use a sulfate-free, color-safe conditioner to restore moisture to your hair.
IV. Troubleshooting Guide
Here are some common issues people face when performing a bleach bath and how to solve them:
Itchy or irritated scalp
Ensure you use the right shampoo to avoid excessive irritation. Rinse several times with cool water after the process to ease the discomfort and soothe the scalp.
A brassy finish
Add a toner to remove the brassy finish that sometimes occurs after the process.
Overlightened spots
Lighten up the other parts of your hair so that they match your over-lightened spots to even out the white patches of hair. It’s also necessary not to keep the mixture on for too long in the case of over-lightened spots.
V. Q&A Style Piece
Q: Can I do a bleach bath on any hair type?
A: Yes, but it’s essential to take note that certain types of hair may be more prone to damage when using a bleach bath. Make sure to tread with caution and use the right products.
Q: Can I re-do my bleach bath if the colour doesn’t come out as expected?
A: It would depend on the condition of your hair. If it’s healthy enough, it’s okay to redo the process. However, it’s advisable to wait a minimum of two weeks before reapplying bleach to your hair.
Q: Is a bleach bath as effective as a full bleach?
A: No, it’s not as effective as full bleach. The bleach bath is a gentle alternative to full bleach, but it may take several sessions to achieve the expected result.
VI. Comparison Article
The two main options for doing a bleach bath are using shampoo and bleach or using powder bleach and developer.
Shampoo and Bleach
Shampoo and bleach provide a mild solution that is less likely to lead to dramatic hair changes and damage. It’s perfect for those looking to lighten their hair’s color by one or two levels. Shampoo and bleach are also affordable and readily available in stores.
Powder Bleach and Developer
Powder bleach and developer are perfect for those looking for a more dramatic change. They can lighten your natural hair color by up to eight shades and are more effective for those with darker hair. However, it can be more damaging to your hair, and it’s advisable that only trained professionals handle the process.
VII. High-Level Overview
A bleach bath is a process that uses bleach powder, shampoo, and water to create a mild bleach solution. It’s used to remove hair color and achieve lighter hair hues, typically when other methods such as toner have failed or are ineffective. The process should be approached with caution to avoid damage and ensure good results.
VIII. Product Review Article
Here are some great products for your next bleach bath:
1. Wella Blondor Multi-Blonde Lightening Powder
This powder is perfect for those seeking a full, dramatic change in their hair color. It’s available in different strength options depending on the severity of the job.
2. Clairol BW2 Lightener powder
Clairol BW2 is perfect for those new to bleach baths. It’s less harmful than other options because of its low volume peroxide formula.
3. Schwarzkopf Professional Blond Me Premium Lightening Powder
This powder comes with a six-level lift, which makes it perfect for anyone seeking a light and dramatic change in their hair color. It’s highly recommended for professional use.
IX. Conclusion
After reading this article, you are now equipped with everything you need to know about bleach baths, from what they are, how to do them safely, troubleshooting to product reviews. Always remember to choose the right products, take the necessary safety precautions and do several sessions if necessary to achieve dramatic changes.
