Are you going to dye your hair lighter? Maybe all you want to know is how it works. In either case, you’ve arrived at the ideal location!
We’ll explore the realm of hair lighteners in this essay. We’ll go over what they are, how they function, and teach you safe methods for lightening your hair. Now let’s get started!
What is A Hair Lightener?
The natural hues in your hair can be lightened with the application of hair lighteners. They cause the pigments to break down into particles so tiny that they become less noticeable. Thus, your hair appears substantially lighter as light passes between your strands and reflects through the empty gap.
However, lighteners do not eliminate or damage your natural colours like bleach does. All they do is lessen their visibility. Hair lighteners aren’t very helpful for naturally dark hair because they can only slightly lighten your locks.
They are, nevertheless, far milder than bleach. You can actually use hair lighteners almost every week because they cause no harm.
Also Read: How Much Hair Is Cut Off in a Trim and Signs You Need a Trim
Are Hair Lighteners and Bleach the Same Thing?
While both bleach and hair lighteners lighten hair strands, they are not the same. Hair lighteners can only mildly lighten your hair and are kinder to the cuticle.
They cannot remove or change the pigments in artificial dyes; they can only change the colour of your natural hair. While bleach works on all hair hues, most hair lighteners are designed for hair that is already mostly light.
You can use bleach on naturally coloured hair as well as previously coloured hair, unlike hair lighteners. The cuticle, or outermost layer of hair, is lifted during bleaching.
The links holding your pigments in place are then weakened by the bleach as it penetrates your strands.
The pigments are cleaned once the bonds weaken and break.
Does Lightening Damage Your Hair?
Hair lighteners might harm your strands even though they aren’t as harmful as bleach. Use them too often, and you may find that your hair becomes drier and more prone to breaking.
Luckily, hair lighteners only cause minor harm. Regular deep conditioning and strengthening treatments usually prevent or reverse it.
Does Bleach Still Work for Hair Lightening?
Yes, you can lighten your hair without bleach using several alternative methods. Keep in mind that these methods may not provide as dramatic or quick results as bleach, especially on dark hair, but they can gradually lighten your hair while minimizing damage. Here are a few options:
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a natural way to lighten hair. Apply it to your hair and sit in the sun. The combination of citric acid and sunlight can produce gradual lightening effects. However, lemon juice can be drying, so use it sparingly and condition your hair afterward.
- Honey and Cinnamon: A mixture of honey and cinnamon can create a paste that, when applied to your hair, may lighten it over time. This method is more suitable for subtle highlights.
- Chamomile Tea: Rinsing your hair with brewed chamomile tea can add subtle golden highlights, especially on lighter hair colors.
- Honey and Olive Oil: Combining honey and olive oil can create a lightening mask. Apply it to your hair, let it sit, and then rinse. This can gradually lighten your hair.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: While hydrogen peroxide is not as harsh as bleach, it can lighten your hair. Mix it with water and apply it as a spray or with a brush. Be cautious not to overdo it, as it can damage your hair if used excessively.
- Sun Exposure: Spending time in the sun can naturally lighten your hair, especially if you have lighter hair colors. Just be sure to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects with sunscreen.
Keep in mind that these methods may not be suitable for all hair types, and results can vary. It’s important to take precautions, such as using hair masks or conditioners to prevent excessive drying or damage to your hair. If you’re looking for a more significant color change, consulting a professional colorist is advisable.
Also Read: How Often Should You Cut Your Hair or Trim It to Keep It Healthy
How much time do you leave hair lightener in place?
There is a widespread misperception that using lighteners on your hair for a longer period of time will make them function more effectively. Always adhere to the instructions on the packaging of the hair lightener you are using.
If you wear them longer than that, you run the risk of breakage, dryness, and hair loss. Every hair lightening product is unique.
Some are intended to be removed, while others are left in for several days. Thus, always err on the side of caution and adhere to the advised duration.
