Have you noticed that as you age, your hair starts to turn grey? While going grey is a natural part of the ageing process, some people embrace the silver locks, whereas others prefer to cover it up with hair dye. However, if you’re looking to bleach your grey hair, it’s essential to understand what’s happening to your hair at a deeper level.
As you bleach your grey hair, you may notice that the colour change is not as vibrant or even as it would be with other hair colours. This is due to the fact that grey hair is more porous, which can result in the hair strands soaking in more bleach than necessary. Furthermore, as hair follicles lose melanin production, the hair becomes less resistant to damage, which means that over-bleaching can cause severe damage to the hair.
While bleaching grey hair can be a tricky process, it’s certainly not impossible. With the right products, tools, and knowledge, you can achieve a stunning, vibrant blonde look. However, it’s essential to consider the impact that this process can have on your hair’s health and invest in the appropriate hair care products that will nourish and protect your locks.
Understanding the Science Behind Hair Bleaching
Before diving into the process of bleaching grey hair, it’s vital to understand the science behind it. The most crucial aspect of bleaching is the chemical reaction that occurs between the hair and the bleach mixture.
Hair is primarily made up of two proteins: keratin and melanin. Melanin is responsible for giving hair its natural color. When hair is bleached, the bleach breaks down the melanin, which creates a lighter appearance. Essentially, bleach removes the pigment from the hair shaft.
The process of bleaching grey hair is slightly different from that of other hair colors. Grey hair lacks melanin, which is typically what bleach targets. Instead, it’s the air pockets inside the hair shaft that are targeted by the bleach. The bleach mixture causes a chemical reaction, which creates microbubbles of gas inside the hair shaft. This, in turn, separates the outermost layer of the hair, causing it to become lighter.
The Effects of Bleaching Grey Hair
- Bleaching grey hair can be quite damaging to the hair shaft. The bleach mixture has a high pH level and can strip the hair of its natural oils, making it more prone to breakage.
- The texture of hair can change drastically after bleaching. Grey hair is often dry and coarse to begin with, and bleaching can make it even more challenging to manage. Using a deep conditioning treatment after bleaching can help to restore some of the lost moisture.
- Bleaching grey hair can also cause unwanted brassy tones. The bleach can only lighten hair to a certain extent, and if the hair is not toned correctly after bleaching, orange or yellow tones can be left behind. Using a purple shampoo or toner can help to correct brassy tones and achieve a more even color.
The Process of Bleaching Grey Hair
Bleaching grey hair should always be done by a professional colorist to minimize the risk of damage to the hair shaft. The process typically involves the following steps:
- The hair is sectioned and coated in a bleach mixture, usually consisting of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia.
- The bleach is left on the hair for a specific amount of time, depending on the color level the colorist is trying to achieve.
- The hair is washed and toned to neutralize any unwanted tones and create a more even color.
- A deep conditioning treatment is applied to restore moisture to the hair shaft.
The Importance of Proper After-Care
After-care is crucial for maintaining the health and integrity of bleached grey hair. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a purple shampoo | Purple shampoo can help to reduce brassy tones and keep your hair looking bright and fresh. |
| Avoid heat styling | Bleached hair is more prone to breakage, so it’s best to avoid heat styling tools such as hair dryers and straighteners. |
| Apply a leave-in conditioner | Using a leave-in conditioner can help to restore moisture to the hair shaft and prevent breakage. |
By following these after-care tips, you can help to maintain the health of your bleached grey hair and keep it looking its best.
The different types of bleach and their effects on grey hair
Bleaching grey hair can give it a fresh and vibrant look, but it can also cause damage if not done correctly. When it comes to bleaching, there are different types of bleach available, each with its own benefits and risks.
- Powder bleach: This is the most common type of bleach used by hairdressers. It is mixed with a developer and applied to the hair. Powder bleach is strong and can lighten hair quickly, but it can also be quite damaging.
- Cream bleach: Cream bleach is similar to powder bleach but has a cream-like consistency. It is less damaging than powder bleach and may be a better option for those with sensitive scalps.
- Oil-based bleach: This type of bleach is less common but is gaining popularity because it is gentler on the hair and scalp. It is also less likely to cause breakage or damage to the hair.
When it comes to grey hair, there are a few things to keep in mind. Grey hair tends to be more fragile and brittle than other types of hair. It also has a different texture and tends to be more porous, meaning it can absorb bleach faster than other types of hair.
When using bleach on grey hair, it is important to choose the right type of bleach and to be gentle during the process. It may be a good idea to use a lower volume developer and to leave the bleach on for a shorter amount of time to minimize damage.
| Type of bleach | Benefits | Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Powder bleach | Fast results | Potential for damage |
| Cream bleach | Less damaging than powder bleach | May not lighten as quickly |
| Oil-based bleach | Gentler on hair and scalp | May not lighten as much as other types of bleach |
In conclusion, when bleaching grey hair, it is important to choose the right type of bleach and to be gentle during the process. It may take a bit longer to lighten grey hair, but going slow and being cautious can help minimize damage and leave you with healthy, vibrant locks.
The Importance of a Strand Test Before Bleaching Grey Hair
When it comes to bleaching grey hair, it’s crucial to perform a strand test before fully committing. Bleaching can be a tricky process, and not all hair types react the same way. Doing a strand test can help determine how your hair will react to the bleach and prevent any potential damage.
- Identify the Proper Bleach Strength: Every shade of hair requires a different strength of bleach, and grey hair is no different. Performing a strand test will help determine the correct strength of bleach needed to achieve your desired shade without damaging your hair.
- Prevent Over-Bleaching: Bleaching too much can cause hair damage, resulting in breakage or worse, hair loss. A strand test can help avoid over-bleaching, causing significant harm to your hair.
- Adjust the Timing of the Bleach: Not everyone’s hair will bleach the same way, so performing a strand test before the entire process is crucial. It will help determine when to stop, preventing unnecessary damage to the hair.
Performing a strand test is a simple process. You need to take a small section of hair and apply the bleach formula to it. Wait for the recommended amount of time, then check the results. If you are happy with the result, then you can proceed with the full bleach, but if you’re not satisfied, you can adjust the formula until you achieve what you’re looking for.
While a strand test may seem like an unnecessary step, it’s an essential part of the hair coloring process. Skipping it can result in massive damage to your hair, which could lead to costly repairs. Take the time to perform a strand test and avoid the potential issues that come with skipping this crucial step.
Remember that everyone’s hair is unique, and the results of the strand test may differ from that of a friend or family member. So, don’t forget to perform a strand test every time you want to bleach your grey hair to ensure its health and beauty.
| Benefits of a Strand Test: | Drawbacks of Skipping a Strand Test: |
|---|---|
| Prevents unnecessary damage to the hair | Can cause significant harm to the hair |
| Helps to determine the proper strength of bleach | May result in using the wrong bleach strength |
| Adjust timing to prevent over-bleaching | Can lead to hair loss or breakage |
Performing a strand test is a crucial step in the hair coloring process. It can help prevent significant damage to your hair, determine the proper bleach strength, and adjust the timing to prevent over-bleaching. Skipping it can lead to disastrous consequences, including hair loss or breakage. Don’t compromise your hair’s health, beauty, and quality by skipping this crucial step.
The potential damage that bleaching can cause to grey hair
While bleaching grey hair can give you a trendy and modern look, it is essential to be aware of the potential damage that bleaching can cause to your hair. Some of the common problems that people can face while bleaching grey hair include:
- Dryness: Grey hair is already prone to dryness due to the lack of natural oils, and bleaching can further strip your hair of moisture. This can make your hair look dull, lifeless, and prone to breakage.
- Damaged Cuticles: As you bleach your hair, the bleach can damage the outer layer of your hair, which is responsible for protecting the hair shaft. When the cuticles are damaged, they become raised, rough, and prone to tangling and breakage.
- Hair Thinning: Bleaching weakens the hair shaft, and with repeated use, it can lead to hair thinning and even hair loss.
It is essential to note that the extent of hair damage can vary depending on the strength of the bleach, the length of time it is left on the hair, and the overall health of the hair. Therefore it is paramount that the bleaching process is done carefully and appropriately by an experienced hairstylist.
To avoid hair damage, you can consider using a hair bleach that is specifically formulated for grey hair. Besides, it would be best if you invest in hair care products that contain revitalizing ingredients such as Argan oil, keratin, vitamin E, and B5. These nourishing ingredients can help restore your hair’s shine, prevent breakage, and improve the overall health of your hair.
| Preventive Measures | How it Helps |
|---|---|
| Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner | It helps protect and preserve the natural oils in your hair that are lost during the bleaching process. |
| Use lukewarm water when washing your hair | Hot water can further strip your hair of moisture and leave it looking dry and damaged. |
| Avoid blow-drying your hair too much | Excess heat can cause hair damage and lead to dryness and breakage. |
| Trim your hair regularly | Regular trims help keep split ends at bay, which can lead to further hair damage. |
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By taking proper care of your hair before and after the bleaching process, you can safeguard your hair from damage, and enjoy your new bright and youthful look.
How to minimize damage and protect grey hair during bleaching
Grey hair can be more delicate than other hair types due to its lack of pigmentation and thinner texture. Bleaching grey hair can cause damage and breakage if not done carefully. Here are some tips on how to minimize damage and protect your grey hair during bleaching:
- Start with healthy hair – Before you bleach your grey hair, make sure it is healthy and moisturized. Use a deep conditioning treatment a week before the process to strengthen your strands and prepare them for the harsh chemicals.
- Use a lower volume developer – A higher volume developer can cause more damage to your hair, especially if it is already weakened. Use a lower volume (20 or 30) to minimize the damage and achieve the desired level of lightness gradually.
- Avoid overlapping – Do not apply the bleach on the same section of hair twice, as this can cause breakage and damage. Make sure you section your hair properly and apply the bleach carefully, avoiding overlapping.
Here are some other ways to protect your grey hair during bleaching:
Use a bond multiplier – Bond multipliers like Olaplex or Brazilian Bond Builder can help protect your hair during the bleaching process. They work by repairing and strengthening the bonds in your hair, preventing the damage caused by the bleach. You can ask your stylist to add a bond multiplier to your bleach formula or use a standalone treatment after the process.
Avoid heat – Heat can weaken your hair and cause breakage, especially when it is already fragile. Avoid using heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, or curling irons for a week or two after the bleaching process. Let your hair air dry and use a leave-in treatment to protect it from further damage.
| Products | Description |
|---|---|
| Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector | A standalone treatment that repairs and strengthens the hair bonds while adding moisture and shine. Use it once a week after bleaching. |
| Brazilian Bond Builder B3 Extension Repair Treatment | A bond multiplier that repairs and protects the hair during the bleaching process. Can be used with any color or lightening service. |
| Joico Defy Damage Protective Masque | A conditioning treatment that strengthens and protects the hair against environmental damage, heat styling, and chemical treatments. Can be used weekly on all hair types. |
With the right techniques and products, you can achieve a stunning blonde shade on your grey hair without damaging it. Always consult a professional stylist for the best results and follow a strict hair care regimen to keep your hair healthy and strong.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bleaching Grey Hair
If you’re considering bleaching your grey hair, it’s important to be aware of the potential mistakes that you could make during the process. Here are six common mistakes to avoid:
- Not preparing your hair properly. Before any bleaching process, you need to make sure that your hair is clean and free from any styling products or buildup. If your hair is not properly prepped, it can affect the outcome of the bleaching and lead to uneven color.
- Over-processing your hair. Bleaching hair can be damaging, especially if it’s done too frequently or for too long. Don’t leave bleach on your hair for more than the recommended time, and make sure to follow any instructions or recommendations on the product packaging.
- Using the wrong level of developer. The level of developer you use will depend on how light you want your hair to be. If you’re unsure which level to use, do some research or consult with a professional to avoid using the wrong one and causing damage to your hair.
- Ignoring your hair’s condition. If your hair is already damaged or fragile, bleach can make things worse. Take the time to assess the condition of your hair before bleaching, and consider using a hair mask or deep conditioner in the days leading up to the process.
- Ignoring the undertones in your hair. Grey hair can have different undertones, and if you’re not careful, the bleaching process can bring out unwanted tones of yellow or orange. Consider using a toner after bleaching to neutralize any unwanted tones.
- Skipping the strand test. Before diving into the process of bleaching your whole head, it’s important to do a strand test to see how your hair will react to the bleach. This can also help you determine how long to leave the bleach on and what level of developer to use.
Conclusion
Bleaching grey hair can be a fun and exciting way to change up your look, but it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers and pitfalls of the process. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy a stunning new look without damaging your hair in the process.
The Role of Toner in Achieving Desired Color After Bleaching Grey Hair
While bleaching grey hair can provide a stunning, modern look, it’s important to know that achieving the desired platinum blonde or silver color can be a complicated process. One important factor in achieving the desired color after bleaching is the application of toner.
- Toner is a specialized hair product designed to balance the brassy undertones that commonly result from bleaching hair.
- It’s important to choose the right toner for your desired shade. Ash toner will help neutralize any yellow or orange undertones, while lavender toner can help achieve a more silver appearance.
- Toner is typically applied after the bleaching process and should be left on for the recommended time to achieve desired results.
When choosing a toner, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Hair texture and porosity can impact the effectiveness of toner, so it’s important to select a toner that is appropriate for your hair type.
- Consider consulting with a professional stylist to find the best toner for your hair, especially if you’re attempting to achieve a particularly unique or bold look.
- Toners can contain strong chemicals that may cause damage to hair if misused, so always follow the instructions carefully and be sure to use toner only as directed.
In addition to using toner, it’s important to care for bleached hair to maintain the desired color and prevent damage. This can include using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, applying regular deep conditioning treatments, and avoiding excessive heat styling.
| Toner Type | Undertone Neutralized | Effect Achieved |
|---|---|---|
| Ash | Yellow/Orange | Platinum |
| Lavender | Yellow | Silver |
| Pearl | Yellow | Cool Blonde |
Ultimately, the use of toner can have a significant impact on achieving the desired color after bleaching grey hair. By carefully selecting the appropriate toner and using it as directed, it’s possible to achieve a stunning platinum or silver hue while protecting and maintaining the health of your hair.
How to care for bleached grey hair to maintain health and prevent further damage
If you have chosen to bleach your grey hair, it’s essential to take care of it to maintain its health and prevent further damage. Here are some tips on how to care for your bleached grey hair:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: Bleaching can cause hair to become dry and brittle. Therefore, it is crucial to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, as sulfates can strip the hair’s natural oils, causing it to become dryer.
- Moisturize with hair oils: Bleached hair is often more porous, which means it can lose its moisture quickly. Therefore, use hair oils to moisturize your hair after washing it. Consider using natural oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil to nourish and protect your hair.
- Avoid heat styling tools: Heat styling can cause further damage to bleached hair, so it’s best to avoid using heat styling tools if possible. If you need to use them, ensure to use a heat protectant spray or cream first.
In addition to these tips, here are more things you should keep in mind when caring for your bleached grey hair:
1. Avoid harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can cause further damage to your bleached hair. Avoid using hair products that contain alcohol, silicones, or sulfates as they can strip your hair of its moisture. Also, avoid chemical treatments such as perms and relaxers as they can cause further damage.
2. Trim your hair regularly: Bleaching can cause split ends, which can lead to further damage. Therefore, it’s essential to trim your hair regularly (at least every 8-12 weeks) to get rid of split ends and promote healthy hair growth.
3. Deep condition regularly: Bleaching hair can often make it dry, so it’s important to deep condition your hair regularly (once a week or more if needed). Use a deep conditioning treatment that’s specifically designed for bleached hair to restore moisture and strengthen it.
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector | A leave-in treatment that helps repair, strengthen, and protect bleached hair. |
| Kérastase Blond Absolu Masque Ultra-Violet | A deep conditioning treatment that neutralizes brassiness and restores moisture to bleached hair. |
| Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask | A hair mask that helps restore moisture and repair damage to bleached hair. |
By following these tips and using the right hair products, you can help maintain the health of your bleached grey hair and prevent further damage.
Alternatives to Bleaching Grey Hair, such as Using Semi-permanent or Demi-permanent Dyes
If you are hesitant to bleach your grey hair, there are alternative options to achieve the color you desire. Instead of bleaching, you can opt to use semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes to color your hair. These dyes are gentler on your hair and do not cause as much damage as bleaching would.
- Semi-permanent dyes: This type of dye does not contain any ammonia or peroxide, making it a safer option for hair dye. It deposits color onto the outer layer of your hair and lasts for around ten washes.
- Demi-permanent dyes: Demi-permanent dyes contain a small amount of peroxide and ammonia, making them a little more potent than semi-permanent dyes. They last for around 20 washes and can be used to darken or lighten your grey hair without causing excessive damage.
Both semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes are excellent options for achieving a shiny, lustrous, and bold hair color. They are also easy to use and require minimal upkeep, making them perfect for busy individuals.
It’s important to keep in mind that semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes do not lighten your hair color. So, if you want to go from dark to lighter shades, you may still need to bleach your hair. However, if all you want is to darken your grey hair or add a touch of color, these dyes are more than capable of delivering excellent results.
If you’re not sure which semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye to use, it might be useful to consult a hair color expert or stylist. They will recommend the best product for your hair type and texture, ensuring that you get the color you want while keeping your hair healthy.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the top semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes in the market:
| Semi-permanent Dyes | Demi-permanent Dyes |
|---|---|
| Arctic Fox Semi-permanent Hair Dye | Wella Color Charm Demi-permanent Hair Dye |
| L’Oreal Paris Colorista Semi-permanent Hair Color | Clairol Professional Demi-permanent Hair Dye |
| Adore Semi-permanent Hair Color | Redken Shades EQ Demi-permanent Hair Gloss |
With so many safe and effective alternatives to bleaching, there is no need to risk damaging your hair when you want to change your hair color. Semi-permanent and demi-permanent dyes are great options for men and women with grey hair who want to embrace a new, exciting hair color.
The impact of bleaching grey hair on different hair textures and types.
Bleaching grey hair can have different effects on various hair textures and types. Here are some possible outcomes:
- Straight hair: The bleaching process can leave straight hair looking limp and lifeless. This is because bleaching strips the hair of its natural oils and can lead to dryness and breakage. Straight hair may also turn brassy or yellowish if the bleach is not left on long enough or if it is not toned properly.
- Curly hair: Curly hair is more porous than straight hair, which means it absorbs bleach more easily. This can lead to more damage, especially if the hair is already dry or damaged from heat styling or chemical treatments. Bleaching curly hair can also affect the curl pattern, causing the curls to become looser or even straight.
- Wavy hair: Wavy hair can be challenging to bleach because it is a mix of straight and curly textures. Bleaching can cause the hair to become frizzy or undefined. It can also make the waves look uneven or patchy.
- Thick hair: Bleaching thick hair can be time-consuming and require more product compared to bleaching thin hair. However, thick hair is often more resilient and can handle the bleach better than finer hair. Still, it is important to be cautious and not over-process the hair to avoid damage.
- Fine hair: Fine hair is more delicate and prone to damage. Bleaching fine hair can cause breakage and lead to hair loss if not done properly. It is crucial to use a lower volume of developer and to watch the processing time carefully.
The science behind bleaching grey hair
Bleaching hair involves using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and bleach powder to remove the color pigments from the hair shaft. Grey hair is already lacking color pigments, so it is more porous than pigmented hair. This means that the bleach can penetrate the hair more easily and lead to more damage.
The extent of the damage depends on several factors, including the hair texture, thickness, and condition. If the hair is already damaged or processed, the bleach can exacerbate the problem and cause further breakage. It is essential to assess the hair’s health before bleaching and to use a protein treatment to strengthen the hair beforehand.
Another factor to consider is the tone of the hair. Grey hair can have yellow or brassy undertones, which can be corrected with toning. The toner helps to neutralize the unwanted tones and gives the hair a more natural look.
Conclusion
Bleaching grey hair can be a fun way to change up your look, but it is crucial to consider the impact on different hair textures and types. The process can affect the hair’s health and appearance, and it is essential to take proper precautions to avoid damage. Understanding the science behind bleaching can help you make informed decisions and achieve the best results possible.
| Hair Texture/Type | Possible Effects |
|---|---|
| Straight | Limpness, dryness, breakage, brassiness |
| Curly | Porosity, damage, loosened curl pattern |
| Wavy | Frizziness, unevenness, patchiness |
| Thick | Resiliency, time-consuming, caution needed |
| Fine | Delicacy, damage, hair loss risk |
Overall, bleaching grey hair requires careful consideration and planning to achieve the desired look while maintaining hair health.
FAQs About What Happens When You Bleach Grey Hair
1. Will Bleaching Grey Hair Damage It?
Bleaching grey hair can be damaging to your hair, but it depends on how well you take care of it. If you bleach your hair too often or don’t use any type of deep conditioning treatment afterwards, your hair can become brittle and prone to breakage.
2. Can Grey Hair Be Bleached?
Yes, grey hair can be bleached. However, since grey hair doesn’t have any pigment, it may take longer to achieve the desired lightness compared to hair that still has some color to it.
3. Will Bleaching Grey Hair Turn It White?
Bleaching grey hair won’t turn it white. Instead, it will lighten it to a pale blonde or yellow shade. If you want to achieve a white shade, you may need to tone your hair after bleaching it.
4. How Long Does It Take to Bleach Grey Hair?
The length of time it takes to bleach grey hair depends on the starting color of your hair and how light you want it to be. On average, it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours to bleach grey hair.
5. Will Bleached Grey Hair Turn Yellow?
Bleached grey hair can turn yellow if it isn’t toned afterwards. Yellow tones can be neutralized with a purple shampoo or toner.
6. How Often Can I Bleach My Grey Hair?
You should avoid bleaching your hair too often, as it can damage it. It’s best to wait at least 6-8 weeks before bleaching your grey hair again.
7. Can I Bleach My Grey Hair at Home?
You can bleach your grey hair at home, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and use a deep conditioning treatment afterwards to minimize damage.
Closing Thoughts on What Happens When You Bleach Grey Hair
Thanks for reading our article on what happens when you bleach grey hair. Bleaching grey hair can be a tricky process, but if done properly, it can result in a beautiful, lightened look. Remember to take care of your hair after bleaching it to prevent damage and breakage. If you’re unsure about bleaching your hair at home, consult a professional hairstylist for the best results. Check back later for more haircare articles!