Hair Bleaching Home
To achieve pale blonde shades, some form of hair bleaching is usually the answer. Hair that is already fair-dark blonde and lighter-can be given an exciting lift when treated with a blonding colorant.

Home hair bleaching works on a similar principle to a permanent tint, but the volume of hydrogen peroxide used will be slightly greater. The exact strength of the solution and the amount of time needed for it to take effect will depend totally on the natural hair color. And since bleaching hair can make the hair extremely dry and porous, you should get professional advice before embarking on this process.

Blonding colorants can be very successful on all shades of hair that are naturally blonde, but darker colors will need to be treated with a pre-bleach process designed to strip the hair of its pigmentation. This is particularly harsh and should never be attempted at home.

During bleaching hair, the first tones to go are the black and brown. At this stage the hair will have a distinct orange tinge. The next tones to go are the red and the yellow. A professional colorist will know exactly when the bleaching effect is at the right level, and will then apply various toners to even out color.

Bleach application can be tricky, which is why a visit to the salon is essential. Ideally, bleaches are applied to the middle lengths of hair first, then the roots, and finally the ends-this keeps the bleaching effect even.

Any home hair bleaching product or process will dry the hair, so you must be prepared to condition your hair after every shampoo and to have weekly deep-conditioning treatments with oils. Bleached hair must be kept covered in the sun. Otherwise, it will dry out to such a degree that splitting and breakages become a real problem.

You only have one head of hair, so you should always treat it kindly. Bleaching hair is a harsh, drying process that leaves the hair extremely porous and lacking in softness and elasticity. Because of its dry state, bleached hair will lose its natural sheen and shine.

If you are already blonde, you can use various mild products to lift the color a shade or two. If you are naturally dark haired, the hair must first be striped of its pigmentation. Seek professional advice on hair bleaching-if your hairdresser does not recommend it for your hair, think about having a handful of highlights instead.