Grey hair is a natural part of the aging process, but for many people, it can be a cause of concern. Some individuals may feel that their natural grey hue is too drab and choose to dye their hair for a more youthful appearance. However, may people wonder what would happen if they put bleach on grey hair.
Bleaching is a popular method for lightening hair color, but it can have disastrous consequences if it’s not done correctly. While bleach can remove the natural pigment from hair, it’s important to understand how this chemical reaction takes place and how it can affect grey hair in particular. In this article, we explore the effects of bleach on grey hair and what you should consider before trying it out.
Understanding the effect of bleach on grey hair
Grey hair, also known as senescent hair, is hair that has lost its natural melanin pigment. As a result of this, it is often coarser, drier, and more porous than pigmented hair. When you put bleach on grey hair, it is much more vulnerable to damage than pigmented hair because of its weakened structure. While bleach can lighten the hair, it can also cause damage and brittleness, leading to breakage.
When bleach is applied to grey hair, the hydrogen peroxide in the bleach opens up the hair cuticle, allowing the peroxide to penetrate the hair shaft and oxidize the melanin in the hair. However, the lack of melanin in grey hair means that it will often lighten to a yellow or orange shade rather than the desired blonde shade. This yellow or orange tone is a result of the remaining pigment in the hair, which cannot be bleached out, and can be difficult to correct afterward. It is, therefore, important to be cautious when lightening grey hair and to seek the advice of a professional stylist to achieve the desired shade without damaging the hair.
Can bleach turn grey hair white?
As we age, our hair gradually loses pigment and turns grey. This is a normal part of the aging process, and there’s nothing inherently wrong with grey hair. However, if you’re someone who prefers a brighter, more youthful-looking hairstyle, you may be tempted to experiment with bleach. The question is, can bleach turn grey hair white?
The short answer is yes, but there are several factors to consider. Depending on the thickness and texture of your hair, as well as the strength of the bleach, it may take several applications to achieve the desired result. Additionally, bleaching can be damaging to your hair, particularly over time. It’s important to take proper care of your hair before and after bleaching, with regular deep conditioning treatments and other nourishing haircare products. Ultimately, whether or not bleach is a good choice for grey hair depends on a variety of factors, including your personal preferences, your hair type, and your willingness to take on the potential risks of bleaching.
The risks of using bleach on grey hair
Using bleach on grey hair can come with a set of risks. One of the most common risks is hair damage. Bleaching can weaken the hair and make it brittle, which can lead to breakage and thinning. For people with already thinning or fragile hair, bleach can exacerbate the problem and cause significant damage. Additionally, bleach can cause a burning sensation on the scalp, which can be uncomfortable and painful.
Another risk of using bleach on grey hair is uneven results. Grey hair can be more resistant to bleach than other hair types, meaning it may take longer to lift the color. Resultantly, some parts of the hair may end up looking more yellow or orange, while others may still have patches of grey. This unevenness can be particularly pronounced in people with thick or coarse grey hair, leading to a look that is patchy and unappealing. Overall, while bleach can change the color of grey hair, it can also be risky, leading to significant hair damage and uneven color results.
How to safely bleach grey hair
Bleaching grey hair can be tricky, as it is often coarser and more porous than other types of hair. Additionally, if you have been dyeing your hair regularly, it may not be as strong or resilient as it once was. To safely bleach grey hair, it’s important to take a few key steps.
First, perform a strand test to see how your hair will react to the bleach. This will help you avoid any unexpected results, such as breakage or damage. Next, choose a high-quality bleach that is gentle on hair, and follow the instructions carefully. Avoid leaving bleach on for too long, as this can cause serious damage to your hair. Finally, use a conditioning treatment after you bleach your hair to restore moisture and protect it from further damage. With these steps, you can safely achieve a light, bright look for your grey hair.
Achieving the desired color when bleaching grey hair
Achieving the desired color when bleaching grey hair is a tricky process that requires a combination of skill and patience. The primary goal is to lighten the hair to the desired shade, but it’s essential to do so without causing damage or breakage. A skilled hairstylist will typically perform a strand test to determine the correct level of developer to use and how long to leave the bleach on for optimal results.
It’s crucial to note that achieving the desired color may take multiple sessions of bleaching and toning. Grey hair tends to be resistant to color, which means it may take several rounds of lightening to achieve a light blonde or silver shade. It’s important to use a toner after bleaching to neutralize any unwanted brassy or yellow tones and to ensure the hair is left looking healthy and vibrant. With the correct combination of bleach and toner, you can achieve the perfect shade of grey hair without causing damage or breakage.
Alternatives to bleach for coloring grey hair
Bleaching grey hair is a popular way of achieving a lighter color, but it is not the only way. There are several alternatives to bleach that can be used to color grey hair. These alternatives include henna, vegetable dyes, semi-permanent hair color, and permanent hair color.
Henna is a natural dye that has been used for centuries to color hair. It is made from the leaves of the henna plant and can be used to achieve a wide range of shades from reddish-brown to black. Vegetable dyes are another natural alternative to bleach. They are made from plants and can be used to achieve various shades of blonde, brown, and black. Semi-permanent and permanent hair colors are synthetic dyes that can be used to color grey hair. They offer a vast range of color options and are more long-lasting than natural alternatives. It is essential to do thorough research and seek professional advice before choosing any hair coloring alternative to bleach.
The importance of proper aftercare for bleached grey hair.
After bleaching your grey hair, it is essential to take proper care of it to maintain its health and prevent further damage. One of the first steps in caring for bleached hair is to use a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair. This will help to prevent color fading, maintain moisture, and protect your hair from further damage. It is also important to limit the use of hot styling tools and protect your hair from the sun to avoid further damage.
Additionally, regular deep conditioning treatments are crucial for maintaining the health of bleached hair. Deep conditioning treatments provide an intense dose of moisture to the hair, which helps restore its natural strength and shine. You may also want to consider using hair oils or serums to help nourish and protect your hair. With proper aftercare, bleached grey hair can maintain its vibrancy and health for an extended period.
Verdict
In conclusion, it is not recommended to put bleach on grey hair unless you are a trained professional. Bleach can damage and even break the hair, especially if left on for too long. If you do decide to bleach your grey hair, it is important to use a gentle and moisturizing formula along with a proper aftercare routine to minimize damage.
It is worth noting that grey hair is often more fragile than other hair colors, and bleaching can exacerbate this fragility. It is important to consider the potential risks and benefits before embarking on any hair treatment, especially if you have grey hair. Ultimately, it is best to consult with a stylist or hair care professional before attempting any major hair changes.