Washing your hair is an essential part of your beauty routine, but what about when you’re planning to bleach your hair? Should you wash your hair before bleaching it? The answer is a bit nuanced, so let’s take a closer look.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that bleaching your hair is a chemical process that can be harsh on your strands. It’s essential to prepare your hair for the bleaching process, and this includes washing your hair correctly.
If you’re planning to bleach your hair, it’s best not to wash it immediately before the process. This is because freshly washed hair can be more prone to scalp irritation and damage due to the chemicals in the bleach. Instead, aim to wash your hair a few days before your planned bleaching session.
By washing your hair a few days before bleaching, you will allow your scalp to build up natural oils that help protect your scalp from the harsh chemicals in the bleach. This will minimize the risk of scalp irritation and discomfort.
It’s also important to avoid using hot styling tools on your hair for at leat two weeks before bleaching your hair. This is because heat can damage your hair, making it more prone to breakage and damage during the bleaching process.
In the days leading up to your bleaching session, it’s also a good idea to use a moisturizing conditioner to help protect your hair from the bleach. Look for products specifically designed for bleached or color-treated hair, as these will contain ingredients that help to protect and nourish your strands.
When it comes to washing your hair after bleaching, it’s essential to use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Bleached hair is more prone to dryness and damage, so you want to avoid using harsh shampoos that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Washing your hair before bleaching it is a good idea, but it’s best to do it a few days before the process to allow your scalp to build up natural oils. Additionally, it’s important to use gentle, moisturizing products before and after the bleaching process to minimize damage and keep your hair healthy and strong.
Is It Better To Bleach Hair Dirty Or Clean?
When it comes to bleaching hair, it is generally recommended to bleach dirty hair rather than clean hair. This is because the natural oils present in dirty hair can help to protect the scalp from the harsh chemicals in the bleach. Additionally, freshly washed hair can be more prone to damage and breakage.
It is recommended to wait at least 72 hours after washing your hair before attempting to bleach it. This will give your hair enough time to build up some of its natural oils and provide a protective barrier against the bleach.
However, it is important to note that excessively dirty hair can also be problematic for the bleaching process. Heavy buildup of dirt, oil, and product can create a barrier that prevents the bleach from penetrating the hair shaft. As such, it is important to strike a balance betwen having enough natural oils to protect the scalp and not having too much buildup that could interfere with the bleach.
While it is generally better to bleach dirty hair, it is important to find a balance and not let your hair become excessively dirty or oily. Waiting at least 72 hours after washing your hair is recommended before attempting to bleach it.
How Long Should You Not Wash Your Hair Before Bleaching It?
It is recommended that you do not wash your hair for at least three days before bleaching it. This is because the natural oils in your hair help to protect your scalp from the harsh chemicals in the bleach. Washing your hair too close to the time of the bleaching process can strip away these oils, making your scalp more sensitive and prone to irritation. Additionally, it is important to avoid uing hot styling tools on your hair for at least two weeks before bleaching. This is because heat can weaken your hair and make it more susceptible to damage from the bleach. It is also important to condition and moisturize your hair before bleaching it, as this can help to minimize damage and keep your hair healthy. it is crucial that you do not leave the bleach on for longer than the recommended time, as this can cause severe damage to your hair and scalp.
How Do I Prepare My Hair For Bleaching?
Preparing your hair for bleaching is a crucial step to ensure that the process goes smoothly and causes minimal damage. Here are five steps that you can follow to prep your hair for bleaching:
1. Get a color consultation: Before you start the bleaching process, consult with a professional colorist to determine if bleaching is the right option for your hair type and desired color. They can also recommend the best products and techniques for your hair.
2. Pump up your hair’s moisture: Bleaching can strip your hair of moisture, so it’s essential to hydrate your hair before the process. Use deep-conditioning treatments and hair masks a few days before bleaching to restore moisture.
3. Don’t shampoo hair a few days prior to bleaching: Skipping shampoo a few days before bleaching can help protect your scalp from irritation and reduce the risk of hair damage.
4. Reduce your heating tools abot one week prior to bleaching: Heat styling tools like curling irons and flat irons can damage your hair and make it more susceptible to breakage during the bleaching process. Try to avoid using them for at least a week before bleaching.
5. Buy products specifically for bleached or color-treated hair: After bleaching, your hair will need extra care and attention. Invest in products that are specifically formulated for bleached or color-treated hair, such as shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments. These products will help to maintain your hair’s health and prevent further damage.
Following these steps can help prepare your hair for the bleaching process and minimize the risk of damage. Remember to always consult with a professional colorist if you have any questions or concerns about bleaching your hair.
Can I Bleach Freshly Washed Hair?
It is possile to bleach freshly washed hair, but it is not recommended. Bleaching wet or damp hair increases the risk of damage and breakage, as water causes the hair to swell and become more porous, making it more susceptible to damage. Additionally, the natural oils and sebum in your hair help to protect it from the harsh chemicals in bleach, so washing your hair right before bleaching can strip away these protective oils, making your hair more vulnerable to damage.
If you do need to bleach your hair when it is freshly washed, it is important to take extra precautions to minimize damage. This includes using a lower volume developer, applying the bleach carefully and evenly, and closely monitoring the processing time. It is also a good idea to use a deep conditioning treatment before and after the bleach to help nourish and protect your hair.
It is best to avoid washing your hair immediately before bleaching and instead wait at least a day or two to allow your hair to build up some natural oils and protect itself from the bleach.
Conclusion
Washing hair is an essential part of maintaining healthy and clean hair. However, it’s important to avoid washing your hair right before bleaching to protect your scalp from chemical damage. It’s also recommended to avoid using hot styling tools and to moisturize your hair before bleaching to prevent damage and breakage. By following these steps and using products specifically designed for bleached or color-treated hair, you can help ensure a successful and safe bleaching process for your hair. Remember to always consult with a professional before attempting to bleach your hair at home.
