How long can I leave my hair after bleaching? The usual timeframe is seven to ten days. However, the bleaching process may require a little longer if the hair is lightened. This is because the hair’s cuticle is more vulnerable to letting pollutants and chlorine penetrate.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice can be used to bleach hair after a swimming session. Although it’s not a permanent lightning solution, it will produce highlights. This method is a better alternative to salon bleaching, as the results are subtler and more natural. However, it’s essential to use this method with caution.
Lemon juice contains five percent citric acid, which breaks down the hair’s cuticle layer, allowing the color to be lifted. Combined with the sun’s UV rays, this process can dramatically lighten your hair. However, the results are slow and will take some time. Despite the slow cycle, lemon juice is a natural alternative to harsh chemicals.
Lemons are natural bleaching agents, and lemon juice is no exception. Lemons contain citric acid, which lightens hair, and are also very effective at bleaching tresses. However, lemons can leave hair feeling brittle and dry, so this method should be used cautiously.
One caution before using lemon juice as a hair color bleach is to be sure you’re not allergic to it. Citrus fruit does not cause any specific allergies, but it does have the potential to damage your hair color. Lemon juice should not be a problem if you follow these precautions.
Lemon juice is also an excellent remedy for removing green stains from your hair. It works by breaking down the metals in your hair. You should rinse your hair with this solution and condition it afterward.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil can help protect your hair from the damaging effects of hair bleach. It can be used in the shower to prevent your hair from feeling dry and dull. Coconut oil will also help restore damaged proteins. You can leave it on for up to 12 hours before you shampoo. Some people even use coconut oil as their conditioner in the shower.
A deep conditioning treatment can also help protect your hair after swimming. Coconut oil forms a thin film between the hair and the water, blocking out harmful chemicals like chlorine. It would help if you used it on a wide-tooth comb to massage it well, paying particular attention to the ends of your hair, as these are more vulnerable to chlorine.
Before using coconut oil on your hair, ensure it’s pure. Some coconut oils contain additives that can harm your hair. You can also use beauty-grade coconut oil to get the best results, but avoiding those products is best unless you’re sure it’s 100% natural. It’s best to go with unrefined coconut oil.
It is also possible to use coconut oil to protect bleached hair. Argan oil is derived from the argan tree and is rich in vitamin E, protecting your hair from further damage. However, it would help if you didn’t use this treatment daily, as it will strip your hair of its natural oils. However, washing your hair at least twice or thrice a week is best to keep it moisturized.
If you’re not planning to apply coconut oil to your hair, you should use a leave-in conditioner first. This will prevent the chlorine from soaking through your hair and create a protective layer.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical that can lighten your hair—the chemical acts on the hair’s cortex, which contains the pigment that gives it its color. The chemical can turn dark hair light blonde or red depending on its use. This chemical is usually harmless, but you should avoid overusing it, as it can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation.
You should avoid mixing hydrogen peroxide with baking soda because the two can cause chemical burns and damage your hair. Instead, buy a clean, empty spray bottle from a drugstore and wash it out before using it. It is essential to store the peroxide in a dark, non-reflective container, as it may interact with styling products and oils.
To use hydrogen peroxide to bleach your hair after swimming, the first shampoo it thoroughly and then condition it. The conditioner will help remove the excess oil and protect your hair from damage from the peroxide. Don’t blow-dry your hair; it will not take well to the hydrogen peroxide. It is better to let your hair air-dry instead.
Once the hydrogen peroxide has bleached your hair, you can use color-safe shampoo or conditioner to remove the chemical. If you have to shampoo, use a color-safe shampoo like Prell. Another good option is to apply a deep conditioner. Resting your hair is also crucial, as it allows the cuticle to lay back and your scalp to replenish its natural oils.
Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used in the food industry and as a disinfectant. It is environmentally friendly and is considered safer to use than chlorine-based bleaches. As an added benefit, it can be used as a face wash and make calluses softer. It can also bleach your hair, create highlights, and cover roots.
Leave-in conditioner
When it comes to bleached hair, leave-in conditioners are essential to prevent damage and maintain your new, vibrant color. The bleaching process can damage hair, leaving it dry and brittle. A good leave-in conditioner for bleached hair provides nutrients and hydration to help restore your hair.
After swimming:
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to help lock in moisture. If you can’t get to the shower immediately, you should rinse thoroughly.
- Use a microfiber towel, which is gentler than a terry cloth.
- Once the hair has dried, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle it. You can also apply leave-in conditioner until you wash it.
Leave-in conditioners are suitable for all types of hair. In addition to providing extra moisture, they protect hair from pollution, heat, and the sun. Apply the conditioner after swimming or towel-drying your hair. If you don’t have time to wait until the leave-in conditioner absorbs, you can blow dry it and style it.
Another essential product to use after swimming is a hair color sealer. These treatments seal the color and prevent it from fading. They also act as natural sunscreen. Moreover, the natural ingredients in these products also give your hair its natural bounce, gloss, and luster. These products are perfect for all hair types, including bleached hair.
Once your hair has been bleached, it needs special care and attention. Avoid excessive washing, as this can cause more damage. Also, don’t over-dry your hair. If you must tie your hair, use a soft, no-crease hair tie.
