Hey there, DIY hair enthusiasts! Thinking about lightening your locks but dreading the salon price tag? You're not alone! Many of us dream of those sun-kissed highlights or a bold new blonde look without breaking the bank. Bleaching your hair at home can be a fantastic option, but let's be real, reaching the back of your head can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. It's the trickiest part of the whole process, but don't worry, guys, I'm here to guide you through it! This comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and techniques you need to successfully bleach the back of your hair at home, ensuring an even, stunning result. We'll cover everything from preparation and product selection to application techniques and aftercare, so you can achieve your desired look with confidence. Remember, patience and careful attention to detail are key when it comes to home bleaching. Rushing the process or skipping steps can lead to uneven color, damage, or even breakage. So, take your time, follow these instructions closely, and get ready to rock your new 'do!
Preparing to Bleach Your Hair: The Foundation for Success
Before you even think about mixing bleach, proper preparation is absolutely crucial. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a flawless finish. Skipping these steps is like building a house on a shaky foundation – it might look good at first, but it's bound to crumble later. So, let's dive into the essential steps to prepare your hair for bleaching.
First things first, assess your hair's health. Is it dry, brittle, or damaged from previous treatments? Bleaching can be harsh, so it's essential to start with a healthy base. If your hair is already fragile, bleaching could push it over the edge, leading to breakage and further damage. Consider deep conditioning treatments for several weeks before bleaching to strengthen your strands. You should also avoid heat styling and other chemical treatments in the weeks leading up to your bleaching session. Giving your hair a break will allow it to recover and build up its natural defenses.
Next, gather your supplies. This isn't a task you want to start and then realize you're missing something important. Here's a checklist of essential items:
- Bleach powder and developer: Choose the right volume developer based on your desired level of lift and your hair's current color. Lower volumes (10 or 20) are gentler and better for subtle lightening, while higher volumes (30 or 40) provide more dramatic results but can also be more damaging. Be cautious with 40 volume, especially if you're a beginner, as it can cause significant damage if used incorrectly.
- Mixing bowl and applicator brush: Use a non-metallic bowl and a good-quality applicator brush for even product distribution.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from the harsh chemicals in bleach.
- Old towel and clothes: Bleach stains, so wear clothes you don't mind getting ruined and drape an old towel around your shoulders.
- Hair clips: Sectioning your hair is essential for even application.
- Mirror: A second mirror will be your best friend for checking the back of your head.
- Timer: Keep track of the processing time to avoid over-processing.
- Toner (optional): If you're aiming for a specific shade of blonde, toner can help neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones.
- Deep conditioner: A must-have for post-bleach hydration and repair.
Perform a strand test. This is non-negotiable, guys! A strand test allows you to see how your hair will react to the bleach before you apply it to your entire head. It helps you determine the right developer volume and processing time to achieve your desired result without causing excessive damage. To do a strand test, mix a small amount of bleach and developer according to the instructions and apply it to a small, hidden section of your hair, like underneath a layer at the nape of your neck. Check the strand every 10 minutes until you reach your desired lightness. Note the time it took and the condition of the strand. This will give you a good indication of what to expect on your entire head.
Finally, section your hair. Dividing your hair into manageable sections will make the application process much easier and ensure even coverage, especially at the back. Start by dividing your hair down the middle from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Then, create horizontal sections, working from the top of your head down. Secure each section with a hair clip. The number of sections you create will depend on the thickness of your hair, but aim for sections that are about 1-2 inches thick.
With these preparations complete, you're well on your way to successfully bleaching the back of your hair at home! Remember, patience and attention to detail are key.
Mastering the Application: Reaching the Back with Precision
Okay, guys, you've prepped your hair, gathered your supplies, and you're feeling ready to tackle the challenge. Now comes the crucial part: applying the bleach to the back of your head. This is where things can get tricky, but with the right technique and a little patience, you can achieve even, beautiful results. The key here is to work methodically and use tools that will help you see and reach those hard-to-get spots.
Mixing the bleach is the first step in the application process. Follow the instructions on your bleach kit carefully, paying close attention to the ratio of bleach powder to developer. Mix the ingredients in your non-metallic bowl until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to stay in place on your hair but not so thick that it's difficult to apply. Avoid over-mixing, as this can activate the bleach prematurely.
Now, let's talk application techniques. Start at the back of your head, where it's typically the darkest and most resistant to lightening. Using your applicator brush, apply the bleach mixture to the roots first, as they require the most processing time. Work in thin sections, ensuring that each strand is fully saturated with the bleach. Be precise with your application, avoiding overlap onto previously bleached hair, which can cause breakage. This is especially important when touching up roots. Use your second mirror to check your progress and ensure even coverage at the back.
Once the roots at the back are covered, move on to the mid-lengths and ends. If you're doing a full-head bleach, apply the mixture to the mid-lengths and ends, leaving about an inch of the roots untouched. This is because the roots process faster due to the heat from your scalp. If you're doing highlights or balayage, focus on the areas you want to lighten, using the appropriate technique for your desired look. Again, use your second mirror to ensure even application and saturation at the back. It might be helpful to have a friend or family member assist you with the back, especially if it's your first time bleaching at home.
Reaching the back sections is where the mirror technique really shines. Hold the second mirror in one hand and use it to view the back of your head while you apply the bleach with the other hand. Work systematically, section by section, ensuring that you're not missing any spots. Don't be afraid to use your fingers (with gloves on, of course!) to massage the bleach into your hair and ensure even distribution. If you find it difficult to reach certain areas, try using a smaller applicator brush or asking for assistance. Remember, it's better to take your time and do it right than to rush and end up with uneven results.
During the processing time, monitor your hair closely. The amount of time the bleach needs to process will depend on your hair's color, texture, and the volume of developer you used. Check a strand every 10-15 minutes to assess the progress. You're looking for your hair to reach the desired level of lightness. Keep in mind that bleach lightens hair in stages, going from dark to red, then orange, then yellow, and finally to pale blonde. Don't panic if your hair looks orange or yellow at first – that's normal! The goal is to lift your hair to a pale yellow shade before toning, if necessary.
Rinse the bleach thoroughly once your hair has reached the desired lightness. Use cool water to stop the bleaching process and help close the hair cuticle. Rinse until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo at this stage, as it can further dry out your hair. Instead, use a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and repair any damage. Leave the deep conditioner on for at least 10-15 minutes, or even longer for extra hydration.
With careful application and diligent monitoring, you can successfully bleach the back of your hair at home. Remember, patience and precision are your best friends in this process!
Aftercare and Maintenance: Keeping Your Bleached Hair Healthy and Vibrant
Congratulations, guys! You've successfully bleached the back of your hair at home. Now comes the crucial part of maintaining your new color and keeping your hair healthy and vibrant. Bleaching can be damaging, so it's essential to implement a proper aftercare routine to prevent breakage, dryness, and fading. Think of aftercare as an investment in your hair's future – the better you care for it, the longer your color will last and the healthier your hair will be.
Deep conditioning is your new best friend. Bleaching strips your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to damage. Deep conditioning treatments help replenish moisture, strengthen the hair shaft, and improve elasticity. Use a deep conditioner at least once a week, or even more frequently if your hair is particularly dry or damaged. Look for deep conditioners that contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, or keratin. Apply the deep conditioner to clean, damp hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it on for the recommended time (usually 10-20 minutes). For an extra boost of hydration, you can wrap your hair in a warm towel or use a shower cap while the conditioner is working its magic.
Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Regular shampoos can strip your hair of its color and moisture, so it's essential to switch to products specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These shampoos and conditioners are designed to be gentle on your hair and help prevent fading. Look for sulfate-free formulas, as sulfates can be particularly harsh on bleached hair. When washing your hair, use lukewarm or cool water, as hot water can cause the color to fade faster. Avoid washing your hair too frequently – 2-3 times a week is usually sufficient. On non-wash days, you can use dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and refresh your hair.
Minimize heat styling. Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers can cause significant damage to bleached hair. The heat can further dry out your hair, leading to breakage and split ends. Try to minimize your use of heat styling tools as much as possible. When you do use them, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from the damaging effects of heat. Experiment with heatless styling methods, such as braids, buns, or overnight rollers, to achieve your desired look without the risk of damage.
Protect your hair from the sun. Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by the sun's UV rays. Sun exposure can cause your color to fade, and it can also dry out your hair. When spending time outdoors, wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the sun. You can also use hair products that contain UV filters to provide an extra layer of protection.
Get regular trims. Trimming your hair regularly helps prevent split ends and breakage. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair healthy and strong. Split ends can travel up the hair shaft, causing further damage, so it's important to keep them at bay.
Consider using a toner. If you've bleached your hair to a pale yellow shade and you're aiming for a specific tone of blonde, toner can be your secret weapon. Toner helps neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones, creating a more even, natural-looking color. Toners come in a variety of shades, so you can choose one that will help you achieve your desired result. If you're not sure which toner to use, consult with a professional stylist.
By following these aftercare tips, you can keep your bleached hair healthy, vibrant, and beautiful. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to hair care. The more diligent you are with your routine, the better your hair will look and feel!
Bleaching the back of your hair at home can seem daunting, but with careful preparation, precise application, and a solid aftercare routine, you can achieve stunning results without the salon price tag. So go ahead, guys, embrace your inner DIY hair stylist and rock that gorgeous new 'do!