Achieving white hair can be a challenging and time-consuming process, especially when it comes to bleaching. The number of times you need to bleach your hair to get it white depends on several factors, including your natural hair color, hair type, and desired shade of white. In this article, we will explore the process of bleaching your hair to achieve a white color and provide guidance on how many times you may need to bleach your hair.
Understanding Hair Bleaching
Before we dive into the process of bleaching your hair to get it white, it’s essential to understand how hair bleaching works. Hair bleaching is a chemical process that involves applying a bleach solution to your hair to break down the pigment and achieve a lighter color. There are two types of hair bleach: hydrogen peroxide and ammonia-based bleach.
Hydrogen Peroxide Bleach
Hydrogen peroxide bleach is a popular choice for at-home hair bleaching. It’s available in various strengths, ranging from 10 volume to 40 volume. The volume of the bleach refers to the amount of hydrogen peroxide present in the solution. A higher volume bleach will lift the hair color more than a lower volume bleach.
Ammonia-Based Bleach
Ammonia-based bleach is a stronger bleach that is typically used in professional hair salons. It’s more effective at lifting dark hair colors, but it can be harsher on the hair.
Factors Affecting Hair Bleaching
Several factors can affect the hair bleaching process, including:
Natural Hair Color
Your natural hair color plays a significant role in determining how many times you need to bleach your hair to get it white. If you have dark hair, you may need to bleach your hair multiple times to achieve a white color.
Hair Type
Your hair type can also affect the bleaching process. Porous hair will absorb the bleach more quickly than non-porous hair, which may require more bleach applications.
Desired Shade of White
The desired shade of white you want to achieve will also impact the number of times you need to bleach your hair. If you want a pure white color, you may need to bleach your hair more times than if you want a lighter shade of blonde.
The Bleaching Process
The bleaching process typically involves the following steps:
Pre-Bleaching Preparation
Before you start bleaching your hair, it’s essential to prepare your hair and scalp. This includes washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo, towel-drying your hair, and applying a pre-bleach treatment to protect your hair and scalp.
Applying the Bleach
Once you’ve prepared your hair and scalp, you can apply the bleach solution. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and apply the bleach evenly to your hair.
Processing the Bleach
After applying the bleach, you’ll need to process it for a specified amount of time. This can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of bleach and your hair type.
Rinsing and Toning
After processing the bleach, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. You may also need to tone your hair to achieve the desired shade of white.
How Many Times Do I Need to Bleach My Hair to Get It White?
The number of times you need to bleach your hair to get it white depends on your natural hair color, hair type, and desired shade of white. Here are some general guidelines:
- If you have light brown or blonde hair, you may only need to bleach your hair once or twice to achieve a white color.
- If you have dark brown or black hair, you may need to bleach your hair three or four times to achieve a white color.
- If you have red hair, you may need to bleach your hair multiple times to achieve a white color, as red hair can be challenging to bleach.
It’s essential to note that bleaching your hair multiple times can cause damage, so it’s crucial to take necessary precautions to protect your hair and scalp.
Protecting Your Hair and Scalp
To minimize damage when bleaching your hair, follow these tips:
Use a Pre-Bleach Treatment
Apply a pre-bleach treatment to your hair and scalp to protect it from the harsh chemicals in the bleach.
Use a Lower Volume Bleach
If you’re new to hair bleaching, start with a lower volume bleach and gradually increase the volume as needed.
Avoid Over-Processing
Don’t over-process the bleach, as this can cause damage to your hair and scalp.
Use a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner
After bleaching your hair, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to help restore moisture to your hair.
Conclusion
Achieving white hair can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but with the right guidance, you can achieve the desired results. Remember to take necessary precautions to protect your hair and scalp, and don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you’re unsure about the bleaching process. By following these tips and guidelines, you can achieve a beautiful, white hair color that you’ll love.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Be patient and don’t rush the bleaching process. It may take multiple applications to achieve the desired results.
- Consider getting a professional hair consultation if you’re unsure about the bleaching process or if you have previously colored or damaged hair.
- Use a hair mask or deep conditioning treatment after bleaching your hair to help restore moisture and shine.
- Avoid using heat styling tools after bleaching your hair, as this can cause further damage.
- Be gentle when washing and combing your hair after bleaching, as it may be more prone to breakage.
What is the ideal number of bleach applications required to achieve white hair?
The ideal number of bleach applications required to achieve white hair varies depending on several factors, including your natural hair color, porosity, and desired level of whiteness. Generally, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 bleach applications to achieve white hair, spaced 4-6 weeks apart to allow for proper recovery and to minimize damage. However, this number can be higher or lower depending on your individual hair characteristics and the bleaching method used.
It’s essential to note that over-bleaching can cause significant damage to your hair, leading to breakage, dryness, and frizz. Therefore, it’s crucial to work with a professional stylist who can assess your hair and determine the best course of treatment to achieve your desired results while minimizing damage. They can help you create a personalized bleaching plan that takes into account your hair’s unique needs and characteristics.
How do I prepare my hair for bleaching to achieve white hair?
To prepare your hair for bleaching, it’s essential to start with a clean slate. This means removing any existing color, product buildup, or impurities that may interfere with the bleaching process. You can do this by using a clarifying shampoo and conditioner, followed by a pre-bleach treatment to open up your hair cuticles and allow the bleach to penetrate more evenly. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid using heat styling tools, harsh chemicals, or heavy styling products for at least a week before bleaching to minimize damage.
It’s also crucial to choose the right bleach for your hair type and desired results. There are different types of bleach available, including powder bleach, cream bleach, and oil-based bleach. Your stylist can help you determine the best type of bleach for your hair and help you prepare for the bleaching process. They may also recommend a strand test to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions.
What are the risks associated with bleaching my hair to achieve white hair?
Bleaching your hair to achieve white hair can come with several risks, including damage, breakage, and dryness. Over-bleaching can cause your hair to become brittle, leading to breakage and frizz. Additionally, bleach can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and dandruff. There is also a risk of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, and irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
To minimize these risks, it’s essential to work with a professional stylist who can assess your hair and determine the best course of treatment. They can help you choose the right bleach and develop a personalized bleaching plan that takes into account your hair’s unique needs and characteristics. It’s also crucial to follow a proper after-care routine, including using moisturizing products and avoiding heat styling tools, to help your hair recover from the bleaching process.
How do I maintain my white hair after bleaching?
Maintaining white hair after bleaching requires regular touch-ups to keep your hair looking its best. This can include regular bleach applications, toning treatments, and color corrections. It’s essential to work with a professional stylist who can help you develop a maintenance plan that meets your individual needs and hair type. They can also recommend the right products and treatments to help keep your hair healthy and looking its best.
In addition to regular touch-ups, it’s also essential to use the right products to maintain your white hair. This can include purple shampoo and conditioner, which can help to neutralize any warm tones and keep your hair looking cool and ashy. You may also need to use a color-depositing treatment to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair. Your stylist can recommend the best products for your hair type and needs.
Can I bleach my hair to achieve white hair at home?
While it’s possible to bleach your hair at home, it’s not recommended, especially if you’re trying to achieve white hair. Bleaching your hair at home can be risky, as it’s easy to over-bleach or under-bleach your hair, leading to damage, breakage, and uneven color. Additionally, it can be challenging to achieve the desired results, especially if you’re new to bleaching your hair.
Working with a professional stylist is highly recommended, as they have the training and experience to help you achieve the desired results while minimizing damage. They can assess your hair and determine the best course of treatment, including the right bleach, developer, and application time. They can also help you develop a personalized maintenance plan to keep your hair looking its best.
How long does it take to bleach my hair to achieve white hair?
The time it takes to bleach your hair to achieve white hair can vary depending on several factors, including your natural hair color, porosity, and desired level of whiteness. Generally, the bleaching process can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of bleach used and the length and thickness of your hair. However, this time can be longer or shorter depending on your individual hair characteristics and the bleaching method used.
It’s essential to note that the bleaching process is just the first step in achieving white hair. After bleaching, you may need to undergo additional treatments, such as toning and color corrections, to achieve the desired results. Your stylist can help you determine the best course of treatment and provide a more accurate estimate of the time required to achieve your desired results.
What are the different types of bleach available for achieving white hair?
There are several types of bleach available for achieving white hair, including powder bleach, cream bleach, and oil-based bleach. Powder bleach is the most common type of bleach used for achieving white hair, as it’s highly effective and can be mixed with different developers to achieve the desired results. Cream bleach is a gentler alternative to powder bleach and is often used for sensitive scalps or damaged hair. Oil-based bleach is a newer type of bleach that uses oil instead of developer to activate the bleach.
Each type of bleach has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the right type of bleach for you will depend on your hair type, desired results, and individual needs. Your stylist can help you determine the best type of bleach for your hair and develop a personalized bleaching plan that takes into account your hair’s unique needs and characteristics.