Have you ever bleached your hair only to regret it later? The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. If you’re not happy with the results of your bleach job, there are a few things you can do to get rid of the bleach and restore your hair to its natural color.
One option is to use a color remover. Color removers are available at most beauty supply stores and can be used to remove both permanent and semi-permanent hair color. However, it’s important to note that color removers can also be harsh on your hair, so it’s important to follow the directions carefully and do a strand test before using them on your entire head of hair.
Another option is to use a natural hair dye. Natural hair dyes are made from plant-based ingredients and are much gentler on your hair than chemical dyes. However, they are not as permanent as chemical dyes and may need to be reapplied more often to maintain the desired color. If you’re not sure which method is right for you, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional hairstylist.
The Importance of Timing
The length of time that the bleach stays on your hair can have a significant impact on the results. If the bleach is left on for too short a time, it may not be able to lighten your hair to the desired level. If the bleach is left on for too long, it can damage your hair and cause it to become brittle and weak.
The following table shows the recommended processing times for different hair colors:
| Hair Color | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Blonde | 20-30 minutes |
| Brown | 30-45 minutes |
| Black | 45-60 minutes |
It is important to note that these are only general guidelines. The actual processing time may vary depending on the individual’s hair type and the strength of the bleach.
It is always best to start with a shorter processing time and gradually increase it as needed. This will help to avoid over-bleaching your hair and damaging it.
Choosing the Right Shampoo
Using the right shampoo is crucial for removing hair bleach effectively. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a shampoo:
Type of Shampoo
Opt for a clarifying shampoo, as it is specifically designed to remove product buildup, including hair bleach. These shampoos typically contain surfactants that gently lift away impurities without stripping the hair of its natural oils.
pH Level
Choose a shampoo with a neutral or slightly acidic pH level (between 5.5 and 6.5). Acidic shampoos help to close the hair cuticles, preventing further damage and preserving hair color.
Ingredients
Look for shampoos that contain ingredients such as:
- Chelating agents (e.g., EDTA, citric acid): These ingredients bind to minerals and impurities, making them easier to remove.
- Protein: Protein-rich shampoos help to strengthen and repair bleached hair, reducing breakage and preserving color.
- Moisturizing agents (e.g., shea butter, coconut oil): These ingredients nourish and hydrate bleached hair, preventing dryness and brittleness.
Here is a table summarizing the key factors to consider when choosing a shampoo to remove hair bleach:
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Type of Shampoo | Clarifying shampoo |
| pH Level | Neutral or slightly acidic (between 5.5 and 6.5) |
| Ingredients | Chelating agents, protein, moisturizing agents |
Using a Clarifying Treatment
Clarifying treatments are specifically designed to remove buildup from hair, including bleach. They typically contain harsh detergents, which can be drying to the hair. Therefore, it’s important to use a clarifying treatment no more than once a week or two, depending on your hair type.
Steps for Using a Clarifying Treatment
1. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
2. Apply the clarifying treatment to your hair and massage it in gently.
3. Leave the treatment in for the amount of time specified on the product instructions (typically 5-15 minutes).
4. Rinse the treatment out of your hair thoroughly.
5. Condition your hair to help restore moisture.
Caution: Clarifying treatments can be harsh, so it’s important to not overuse them. If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, you may want to avoid using a clarifying treatment altogether.
Tips for Using a Clarifying Treatment
* Use a gentle clarifying treatment if you have dry or damaged hair.
* Avoid using a clarifying treatment too often, as it can strip your hair of its natural oils.
* Condition your hair after using a clarifying treatment to help restore moisture.
* If you’re not sure whether a clarifying treatment is right for your hair, consult a professional stylist.
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
Baking soda and lemon juice are both effective natural bleaching agents that can help to remove hair bleach. To use this method, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Apply the paste to the bleached hair and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the paste out with warm water and shampoo and condition as usual. You may need to repeat this process several times to achieve the desired results.
How Baking Soda Works
- Baking soda is a mild alkaline that can help to neutralize the acidity of hair bleach.
- It also has a mild abrasive action that can help to remove bleach stains.
How Lemon Juice Works
- Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that contains citric acid.
- Citric acid can help to break down bleach stains and restore hair to its natural color.
Table: Baking Soda and Lemon Juice for Hair Bleach Removal
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Baking soda | Neutralizes acidity, mild abrasive |
| Lemon juice | Contains citric acid, natural bleach |
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective natural remedy for removing hair bleach. Its acidic nature helps to break down the bleach molecules and restore the hair’s natural pH balance.
How to use apple cider vinegar to remove hair bleach:
1. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution onto the bleached hair, avoiding the scalp.
3. Let the solution sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Rinse the hair thoroughly with warm water.
5. Repeat the process once a week until the desired level of bleach removal is achieved.
Tips for using apple cider vinegar to remove hair bleach:
* Use filtered or distilled water to dilute the apple cider vinegar, as tap water can contain minerals that can diminish its effectiveness.
* Apply the solution in a well-ventilated area, as the smell of apple cider vinegar is pungent.
* Do not leave the solution on the hair for longer than 20 minutes, as it can dry out the hair strands.
* Deep condition the hair after using apple cider vinegar to restore moisture and prevent damage.
| Concentration | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Equal parts apple cider vinegar and water | Once a week |
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to condition and soften the hair. It can also help to remove bleach from the hair, leaving it feeling soft and silky. To use coconut oil to remove bleach, follow these steps:
- Apply coconut oil to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends.
- Massage the oil into your hair and scalp, using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and leave it on for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse your hair with warm water.
- Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
- Repeat this process once or twice a week until the bleach has been removed from your hair.
Tips
Here are some additional tips for using coconut oil to remove bleach from your hair:
- You can also add a few drops of lemon juice to the coconut oil to help lighten the bleach.
- If your hair is severely bleached, you may need to use coconut oil more frequently to remove the bleach.
- Do not use coconut oil on color-treated hair, as it can strip the color from your hair.
Benefits of Using Coconut Oil
Using coconut oil to remove bleach from your hair offers a number of benefits, including:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Moisturizes the hair | Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help to condition and soften the hair, leaving it feeling soft and silky. |
| Removes bleach | Coconut oil can help to remove bleach from the hair, leaving it less damaged and more manageable. |
| Protects the hair from damage | Coconut oil can help to protect the hair from damage caused by heat styling, chemicals, and UV rays. |
Vitamin C Powder
Vitamin C powder is another effective way to remove hair bleach. It works by oxidizing the bleach molecules, which makes them water-soluble and easier to wash away. To use vitamin C powder, mix one tablespoon of powder with two tablespoons of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the bleached hair and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the hair thoroughly with water and shampoo to remove the paste.
Additional Benefits of Vitamin C Powder for Hair
In addition to removing hair bleach, vitamin C powder has a number of other benefits for hair, including:
- Promotes hair growth
- Strengthens hair
- Prevents hair loss
- Adds shine to hair
Here are some additional tips for using vitamin C powder to remove hair bleach:
- Do not use vitamin C powder on hair that has been recently chemically treated, such as permed or relaxed.
- Do not leave the vitamin C paste on your hair for longer than 20 minutes, as this can damage your hair.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with water after using vitamin C powder, as any leftover powder can cause irritation.
- You can use vitamin C powder to remove hair bleach as often as needed.
Here is a table summarizing the benefits of vitamin C powder for hair:
| Benefit | How it Works |
|---|---|
| Promotes hair growth | Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect hair follicles from damage. It also helps to stimulate collagen production, which is essential for hair growth. |
| Strengthens hair | Vitamin C helps to strengthen hair by cross-linking the proteins in the hair shaft. This makes the hair more resistant to breakage and damage. |
| Prevents hair loss | Vitamin C helps to prevent hair loss by inhibiting the production of DHT, a hormone that can cause hair loss. |
| Adds shine to hair | Vitamin C helps to add shine to hair by smoothing the hair cuticle and reducing frizz. |
Over-the-Counter Products
There are a few over-the-counter products that can help to remove hair bleach. These products typically contain ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, or potassium permanganate. These ingredients work by breaking down the pigment in the hair, which lightens the color.
When using over-the-counter hair bleach removers, it is important to follow the directions carefully. These products can be harsh, and using them incorrectly can damage your hair.
8. Specific Product Recommendations
Here are a few specific over-the-counter hair bleach removers that you may want to try:
| Product | Ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Color Oops Hair Color Remover | Hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite | $10-$15 |
| Sally Beauty Supply Bleach Buster | Potassium permanganate | $5-$10 |
| L’Oréal Paris Colorista Bleach Eraser | Hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite | $10-$15 |
These products are all available at most drugstores and beauty supply stores. They are all relatively inexpensive and easy to use. However, it is important to remember that these products can be harsh, so it is important to follow the directions carefully and to do a patch test before using them on your entire head of hair.
Professional Salon Treatment
If you’re looking for a more professional way to remove hair bleach, you can visit a salon. Salons have access to stronger chemicals and techniques that can safely and effectively remove bleach from your hair. However, these treatments can be expensive, so it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision.
Chemical Strippers
Chemical strippers are one of the most common methods used to remove hair bleach. These products contain harsh chemicals that break down the bleach molecules and allow them to be washed away. Chemical strippers can be effective, but they can also damage your hair if they are not used properly. It is important to follow the instructions on the product label carefully and to avoid overusing the product.
Color Correctors
Color correctors are another option for removing hair bleach. These products contain pigments that counteract the yellow and orange tones that can be left behind by bleach. Color correctors can help to restore your hair to its natural color or to create a new, more desired color.
Olaplex Treatment
Olaplex is a professional hair treatment that can help to repair and strengthen hair that has been damaged by bleach. Olaplex works by rebuilding the disulfide bonds in your hair, which are responsible for its strength and elasticity. This treatment can help to prevent hair breakage and split ends, and it can also improve the overall health and appearance of your hair.
Table: Summary of Professional Salon Treatments
| Treatment | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical strippers | Effective at removing bleach | Can damage hair |
| Color correctors | Counteract yellow and orange tones | May not be effective on all hair types |
| Olaplex treatment | Repairs and strengthens damaged hair | Expensive |
Patience and Consistency
Dealing with unwanted hair bleach requires patience and a consistent approach. Here are some tips:
1. Avoid Over-Washing
Excessive shampooing can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it more susceptible to damage. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times per week using a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain moisture.
2. Deep Condition Regularly
Deep conditioning treatments provide intense hydration and nourishment. Use a deep conditioner specifically designed for bleached hair and leave it on for the recommended time to restore softness and shine.
3. Use Hair Masks
Hair masks offer a concentrated dose of nutrients that can help repair bleached hair. Apply a mask 1-2 times per week to improve hair strength, elasticity, and overall health.
4. Trim Split Ends
Regular trims remove weakened and damaged ends, preventing breakage and encouraging healthy hair growth. Aim to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to keep it looking its best.
5. Protect from Heat
Heat styling can further damage bleached hair. Use a heat protectant spray and limit the use of hot tools, such as blow dryers and flat irons. Air-drying or using a diffuser is a gentler alternative.
6. Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine and saltwater can strip hair of moisture and cause discoloration. Wear a swim cap or apply a leave-in conditioner to protect your hair when exposed to these elements.
7. Use a Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo neutralizes unwanted yellow or brassy tones in bleached hair. Use it 1-2 times per week and leave it on for a few minutes to keep your hair looking bright and vibrant.
8. Consult a Professional
If you have severely damaged hair or are unsure how to proceed, consider consulting a professional hair stylist. They can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best course of action.
9. Be Patient
Repairing bleached hair takes time and consistency. Don’t expect to see results overnight. Stick to the recommended routine and give your hair time to recover.
10. Additional Tips for Patience and Consistency
- Set realistic expectations and avoid trying to fix your hair too quickly.
- Incorporate hair health into your daily routine by eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep.
- Create a consistent hair care schedule and stick to it as much as possible.
- Use gentle hair products that are designed for bleached hair.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and treatments that can further damage your hair.
How To Get Rid Of Hair Bleach
Hair bleach is a powerful chemical that can lighten your hair color by several shades. It works by breaking down the melanin in your hair, which is the pigment that gives it its color. While hair bleach can be effective at lightening your hair, it can also be damaging. Bleach can cause hair to become dry, brittle, and frizzy. It can also make your hair more susceptible to breakage. If you’re not careful, hair bleach can even cause scalp irritation and burns.
If you’re considering bleaching your hair, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. If you’re not sure whether or not hair bleach is right for you, consult with a professional hairstylist.
If you’re determined to bleach your hair, there are a few things you can do to minimize the damage. First, start with a small section of hair to test the bleach. This will help you to see how your hair reacts to the bleach and to avoid any major disasters. Second, use a toner after you bleach your hair. A toner will help to even out the color of your hair and to add shine. Third, use a deep conditioner after you bleach your hair. A deep conditioner will help to repair any damage caused by the bleach and to leave your hair feeling soft and healthy.
People Also Ask
How long does hair bleach last?
Hair bleach typically lasts for 6-8 weeks. However, the longevity of hair bleach can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of bleach used, the condition of your hair, and how often you wash your hair.
Can you bleach hair twice?
It is not recommended to bleach hair twice in a short period of time. Bleaching hair twice can cause severe damage to your hair, making it dry, brittle, and frizzy. It can also make your hair more susceptible to breakage.
How can I get rid of hair bleach naturally?
There are a few natural ways to get rid of hair bleach. One way is to use a baking soda paste. To make a baking soda paste, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water. Apply the paste to your hair and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse your hair with water and shampoo as usual. Another way to get rid of hair bleach naturally is to use a lemon juice rinse. To make a lemon juice rinse, mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 1 cup of water. Pour the rinse over your hair and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse your hair with water and shampoo as usual.
