How to bleach bath hair

May 11, 2024

Welcome to the ultimate guide on bleach bathing hair! Whether you're looking to brighten up a client's blonde locks, restore natural colour, or gently lighten previously treated hair, bleach bathing is a versatile technique that can achieve stunning results with less damage than traditional bleaching methods.

We'll delve into everything you need to know about bleach bathing hair, from understanding the technique and its benefits to step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and aftercare advice.

What is a Bleach Bath for Hair?

A bleach bath is a milder form of bleaching that involves diluting bleach with shampoo before applying it to the hair. This method is favoured for its ability to lighten the hair by a few shades or remove unwanted pigment without causing as much damage as pure bleach.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bleach Bath Hair

Gather Your Supplies: Ensure you have all necessary items, including powder bleach, developer, shampoo, conditioner, gloves, mixing bowl, brush, and plastic shower cap.
Do An Allergy Test: Perform an allergy test by combining equal portions of bleach and developer. Apply a small amount of this mixture onto the inner arm using a cotton swab.
Mix Your Bleach Bath: Follow package instructions to mix bleach powder (25-50ml) and developer, in the the package stated ratio. Add a clarifying shampoo to the mix (the same amount you would usually use to wash your hair.)
Prepare Your Hair: Ensure the hair is damp before applying and section the hair into manageable parts. If the hair is particularly dry or damaged, consider pre-treating with a protein-based conditioner to strengthen the hair shaft.
Apply the Bleach Bath: Starting at the bottom and working your way up to the roots, apply the bleach bath mixture evenly throughout the hair using a brush, ensuring thorough saturation. Massage the mixture into the hair to ensure even distribution.
Wait and Check: Cover hair as this helps the bleaching process faster. Check the hair regularly every 5-10 minutes to monitor the lightening process. The processing time can vary depending on the starting colour and texture of the hair.
Rinse with Warm Water: Once the desired level of lightness is achieved, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water and shampoo to remove all traces of bleach.
Style and Protect: Gently towel dry the hair and style as desired. Use hair care products specifically designed for colour-treated or bleached hair to maintain its health and prevent damage.

When Should You Bleach Bath the Hair?

Bleach baths can do a lot for different hair problems. If your client's blonde hair seems dull, a bleach bath can make it brighter and rejuvenate its energy. Also, if too much dyeing has made the hair look tired, a bleach bath can help by removing excess colour and restoring hair to its natural shade, giving it a fresh start. Plus, for clients who want a bit of lightening, a bleach bath is a softer choice compared to regular bleaching.

What are the Benefits of Bleach Bathing?

Gentler on the Hair: Bleach baths are less harsh on the hair compared to full-strength bleach, making them suitable for delicate or damaged hair

Gradual Lightening: They offer a more gradual lightening effect, allowing for subtle changes in hair colour rather than drastic transformations, providing more control over the final result.

Even Results: Bleach baths can help achieve more even results, especially for those with previously coloured or unevenly pigmented hair, leaving a more uniform and natural-looking finish.

Less Damage: Since bleach baths are diluted, they can cause less damage to the hair cuticle compared to full-strength bleach applications, helping to maintain the overall health and integrity of the hair. This also reduces the risk of irritation or sensitivity on the scalp

Versatility: They can be customised by adjusting the bleach concentration and processing time to achieve the desired level of lightening, making them suitable for various hair types and lightening goals.

Bleach Bath Aftercare

Deep Conditioning: Bleaching can strip the hair of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it dry and brittle. Use a deep conditioning treatment specifically formulated for bleached hair to replenish moisture and nourish the strands

Trim Regularly: Bleaching can cause split ends and breakage, so it's essential to trim the hair regularly Advise your client to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep their hair looking healthy and maintain its shape.

Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfates can be harsh on bleached hair and strip away its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and damage. Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo formulated for colour-treated or damaged hair.

Limit Washing: Washing the hair too frequently can strip away its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to damage. Advise your clients to limit washing their hair to 2-3 times per week, or even less frequently if possible.

Protect from the Sun: UV rays can cause bleached hair to become even more damaged and prone to breakage, leading to increased dryness and frizz. Avise clients to protect their hair from the sun by wearing a hat or scarf when spending extended periods outdoors, or use a leave-in conditioner or UV protectant spray to shield it from harmful UV rays.

Be Gentle: Bleached hair is more fragile and prone to breakage, so handle it with care to avoid causing further damage. Avoid brushing or combing the hair when it's wet, as it's more susceptible to breakage when it's damp. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove knots and tangles, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots to prevent breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I bleach bath my client's hair?

To prevent hair damage, bleach it only every 4-6 weeks. If the hair is already fragile or damaged, wait longer between bleaching sessions to let it recover. Use conditioning treatments and limit heat styling to keep the hair in good condition between bleaches.

Which shampoo should I use to bleach bath hair?

When doing a bleach bath, use gentle products to keep hair healthy. Choose a clarifying or sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils, which can cause dryness and damage. Look for shampoos made for coloured or damaged hair, as they're gentler and have ingredients to nourish and protect strands.

How many levels does a bleach bath lift?

A bleach bath typically lightens hair by about 1-2 levels, but the result can vary based on factors like hair colour and processing time.

Can I mix bleach with purple shampoo?

Mixing bleach with purple shampoo is not recommended. Purple shampoo is meant to remove yellow tones from blonde hair, while bleach lightens hair. Combining them could damage the hair or scalp. Stick to using each product as directed on its own. If you want to lighten the hair, use bleach as directed, then use purple shampoo afterwards if needed.

Best Products For a Bleach Bath

FarmaVita Omniplex Bleach Powder

Designed to provide power and protection during all lightening techniques. Its advanced Plex technology helps protect and preserve the hair's structural bonds, ensuring stunning results without compromising hair integrity

Its Plex technology protects the hair's structural bonds, maintaining strength and resilience during the lightening process
The dust-free formula of Omniplex Bleaching Powder ensures a clean and precise application
Infused with nourishing ingredients for optimal hair health

Fanola Wonder Nourishing Restructuring Leave-In Conditioner Softness And Brightness

Infused with Argan & Linseed Oil, this conditioner deeply hydrates and nourishes your hair, leaving it feeling silky smooth
Protect your hair from the elements and maintain its elasticity with our moisture-rich formula, ensuring your locks stay strong and resilient