Embarking on a blonde hair journey often involves multiple steps, and it’s natural to wonder about the possibilities and limitations of each process. A common question that arises is: “Can I simply put blonde dye over bleached hair?” The answer, like most things in hair coloring, isn’t a straightforward yes or no. It depends on various factors, including the current state of your hair, the desired shade of blonde, and the type of dye you plan to use. This comprehensive guide will delve into these nuances, providing you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your hair.
Understanding Bleaching and Blonde Dye
Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental differences between bleaching and dyeing hair blonde. Bleaching is a process that strips the hair of its natural pigment, lightening it to a pale yellow or even white base. This is achieved using chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, which open the hair cuticle and dissolve the melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color.
Blonde dye, on the other hand, deposits color onto the hair shaft. It contains pigments that add tones of blonde, whether it be ash blonde, golden blonde, or strawberry blonde. While some blonde dyes may contain a small amount of lifting power (meaning they can slightly lighten the hair), they are primarily designed to add tone and depth to pre-lightened hair. Think of bleaching as the canvas preparation and dyeing as the application of the desired color.
The Key Factors to Consider
Several factors will determine whether applying blonde dye over bleached hair is a viable option and, more importantly, whether it will achieve your desired results without causing damage. Let’s explore these in detail.
Current Hair Color Level
The level of your hair after bleaching is paramount. Hair levels are numbered 1 to 10, with 1 being black and 10 being the lightest blonde. If your hair is bleached to a level 9 or 10, it provides the ideal canvas for applying blonde dye to achieve a true-to-tone result. If your hair is only lifted to a level 7 or 8, applying a light blonde dye might not achieve the desired brightness and could result in brassiness or unwanted undertones. Ensure your hair is light enough to achieve the intended shade of blonde.
Desired Shade of Blonde
The shade of blonde you are aiming for plays a crucial role. If you’re going for a darker, warmer blonde, like a honey blonde or caramel blonde, applying a dye directly over bleached hair might work, even if the hair isn’t lifted to the highest level. However, if you desire a cool, platinum blonde or a very light ash blonde, the hair must be bleached to a very pale yellow to avoid brassiness. Matching the dye shade to the underlying hair color is critical for successful results.
Hair Condition and Porosity
Bleaching can be damaging to the hair, especially if not done correctly. It can make the hair dry, brittle, and porous. Porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. Highly porous hair absorbs dye quickly but also loses it quickly. Applying dye to damaged, porous hair can lead to uneven color absorption, patchiness, and further damage. Assess your hair’s condition and porosity before proceeding. A protein treatment or deep conditioning mask can help improve hair health before dyeing.
Type of Blonde Dye
The type of blonde dye you choose also matters. There are several options available, each with varying levels of intensity and longevity.
- Toners: Toners are typically used to neutralize unwanted undertones, such as yellow or orange, after bleaching. They are usually demi-permanent and deposit only, meaning they don’t lift the hair.
- Demi-Permanent Dyes: These dyes deposit color and blend gray hair, lasting for around 24 washes. They are less damaging than permanent dyes.
- Permanent Dyes: These dyes can lift and deposit color in one step. However, they can be more damaging to the hair due to the higher concentration of chemicals.
- Direct Dyes: Direct dyes are vibrant colors that don’t require mixing with a developer. They deposit color directly onto the hair and are usually semi-permanent.
Select the dye type that best suits your desired outcome and hair condition. For example, a toner might be sufficient to neutralize yellow tones, while a permanent dye might be needed to achieve a significant color change.
When is it Safe to Apply Blonde Dye Over Bleached Hair?
Applying blonde dye over bleached hair is generally safe when:
- Your hair is bleached to the appropriate level for your desired shade.
- Your hair is in good condition and not overly damaged.
- You choose a dye that is appropriate for your hair’s porosity and desired outcome.
- You perform a strand test to assess the color result and potential for damage.
However, it’s essential to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of damage.
Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them
Even under ideal circumstances, applying blonde dye over bleached hair carries some risks. Understanding these risks and how to mitigate them is crucial for a successful outcome.
Damage and Breakage
Bleaching, in itself, can cause significant damage to the hair. Over-processing, overlapping bleach, and using a high-volume developer can all lead to breakage, split ends, and a dry, straw-like texture. Applying dye over already damaged hair can exacerbate these problems.
- Prevention: Use a low-volume developer when bleaching, avoid overlapping bleach on previously lightened hair, and incorporate protein treatments and deep conditioning masks into your hair care routine.
Uneven Color Absorption
Porous hair can absorb dye unevenly, resulting in patchy or splotchy color. This is particularly common in areas where the hair is more damaged or has been previously processed.
- Prevention: Ensure your hair is evenly saturated with dye, use a pre-color treatment to even out porosity, and consider applying the dye in small sections to ensure thorough coverage.
Brassiness or Unwanted Undertones
If your hair isn’t bleached to a light enough level, applying blonde dye can result in brassiness or other unwanted undertones, such as orange or yellow.
- Prevention: Bleach your hair to the appropriate level before applying dye, use a toner to neutralize unwanted undertones, and choose a dye with cool or ash tones to counteract brassiness.
Color Fading
Bleached hair tends to be more porous, which means it can lose color more quickly. This can result in your blonde dye fading prematurely, leaving you with dull or lackluster hair.
- Prevention: Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoid washing your hair too frequently, and use a color-depositing conditioner to maintain the vibrancy of your blonde.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Blonde Dye Over Bleached Hair
If you’ve assessed your hair, chosen the right dye, and are confident in proceeding, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best results:
- Perform a Strand Test: Before applying dye to your entire head, perform a strand test on a small, inconspicuous section of hair. This will allow you to assess the color result and potential for damage before committing to the full application.
- Prepare Your Hair: Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup of product or oil. Avoid using conditioner, as it can create a barrier that prevents the dye from properly penetrating the hair shaft. Allow your hair to dry completely.
- Protect Your Skin and Clothing: Wear gloves to protect your hands from staining and drape a towel over your shoulders to protect your clothing. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to your hairline to prevent the dye from staining your skin.
- Mix the Dye: Follow the instructions on the dye packaging to mix the dye and developer in a well-ventilated area.
- Apply the Dye: Using a tint brush, apply the dye to your hair in small, even sections, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends. Ensure that all strands are thoroughly saturated with dye.
- Process the Dye: Follow the instructions on the dye packaging to determine the appropriate processing time. Do not exceed the recommended processing time, as this can damage your hair.
- Rinse and Condition: Once the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it on for several minutes to help restore moisture and repair damage.
- Style as Usual: Style your hair as usual, using heat protectant if you plan to use heat styling tools.
Post-Dyeing Hair Care
Maintaining the health and vibrancy of your blonde hair requires a dedicated hair care routine. Here are some essential tips:
- Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: These products are formulated to be gentle on color-treated hair and help prevent fading.
- Avoid Washing Your Hair Too Frequently: Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils and cause the dye to fade more quickly. Aim to wash your hair only 2-3 times per week.
- Use a Deep Conditioner Regularly: Deep conditioning treatments help to replenish moisture and repair damage, keeping your hair healthy and strong.
- Protect Your Hair from Heat: Heat styling tools can damage color-treated hair. Use a heat protectant spray before using blow dryers, flat irons, or curling irons.
- Avoid Chlorine and Sun Exposure: Chlorine and sun exposure can both cause blonde hair to become brassy or discolored. Wear a swimming cap when swimming and use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
- Get Regular Trims: Trimming your hair regularly helps to remove split ends and prevent breakage, keeping your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
- Consider a Toner or Glaze: To maintain your desired tone and combat brassiness, use a toner or glaze every few weeks.
- Hydrate: Drinking enough water and eating a healthy diet are crucial for overall hair health, including color retention and shine.
When to Seek Professional Help
While it’s possible to apply blonde dye over bleached hair at home, there are certain situations where seeking professional help is recommended.
- Extensive Damage: If your hair is severely damaged or breaking, it’s best to consult with a professional stylist before attempting any further chemical treatments.
- Significant Color Correction: If you’re attempting a significant color correction, such as going from dark brown to platinum blonde, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. They have the expertise and products to achieve the desired result without causing excessive damage.
- Uncertainty: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a professional stylist.
Applying blonde dye over bleached hair can be a successful way to achieve your desired shade, but it requires careful consideration and proper execution. By understanding the factors involved, taking necessary precautions, and following a dedicated hair care routine, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy blonde hair. Remember to prioritize the health of your hair and seek professional help when needed.
FAQ 1: Can I apply blonde dye directly after bleaching my hair?
Applying blonde dye directly after bleaching is generally not recommended. Bleaching opens the hair cuticle, making it more porous and susceptible to damage. Immediate application of another chemical process, like dyeing, can over-process the hair, leading to breakage, dryness, and an uneven color result.
Waiting at least a few days, ideally a week or two, allows the hair to recover some of its natural oils and strength. During this waiting period, focus on deep conditioning treatments to help replenish moisture and close the cuticle. This will create a healthier base for the blonde dye, resulting in a more vibrant and longer-lasting color.
FAQ 2: What type of blonde dye should I use after bleaching?
The best type of blonde dye to use after bleaching depends on your desired final shade and the condition of your hair. Toner is a common choice to neutralize brassiness and achieve a cool blonde. It’s a demi-permanent option that deposits color without lifting, making it gentler on already processed hair.
Alternatively, a deposit-only blonde dye can add warmth or depth to your bleached hair. Avoid permanent dyes that require a developer, as these can further damage bleached hair. Always perform a strand test to assess how your hair reacts to the chosen dye and ensure you achieve the desired result without causing additional harm.
FAQ 3: How can I prepare my hair before dyeing it after bleaching?
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful blonde dye application after bleaching. Focus on restoring moisture and protein to your hair. Use deep conditioning treatments and protein masks in the days leading up to the dye application to strengthen and hydrate the strands.
Avoid using heat styling tools, such as straighteners or curling irons, to minimize further damage. Ensure your hair is clean but not freshly washed on the day of dyeing. Natural oils on the scalp can provide a protective barrier against the dye.
FAQ 4: What if my bleached hair is too damaged to dye?
If your bleached hair feels extremely dry, brittle, or elastic, it might be too damaged for further dyeing. Applying more chemicals could lead to severe breakage and potentially irreversible damage. Focus on repairing and strengthening your hair before considering any additional color treatments.
Prioritize protein treatments to rebuild the hair structure and moisturizing masks to replenish lost hydration. Consider consulting with a professional hairstylist who can assess the damage and recommend appropriate repair strategies. It might be necessary to trim off severely damaged ends to prevent further breakage.
FAQ 5: Can I use a purple shampoo instead of dyeing my hair after bleaching?
Purple shampoo is a great option for maintaining blonde hair and neutralizing brassy tones after bleaching, but it’s not a substitute for dyeing if you want to change the color. Purple shampoo contains violet pigments that counteract yellow tones, keeping your blonde bright and cool.
However, it only deposits a small amount of pigment and won’t significantly alter the overall color of your hair. If you are happy with the tone but want to maintain it, purple shampoo is ideal. If you desire a different shade of blonde or to add depth and dimension, then dyeing is necessary.
FAQ 6: How long should I leave the blonde dye on my hair after bleaching?
The amount of time to leave blonde dye on your hair after bleaching depends on the specific dye and your desired result. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided with the product. Over-processing can lead to damage and an undesirable color.
Regularly check the color during processing. Start checking a few minutes before the recommended time, and assess the color in natural light. Rinse the dye thoroughly with cool water once you’ve achieved the desired shade to help seal the cuticle and lock in the color.
FAQ 7: How can I maintain my blonde hair color after dyeing it following bleaching?
Maintaining your blonde hair color after dyeing requires a consistent routine of care. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for color-treated hair to prevent fading and dryness. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments regularly to replenish moisture and strengthen the hair.
Protect your hair from heat styling and UV exposure, which can both contribute to color fading and damage. Use heat protectant sprays before using styling tools and wear a hat or use UV protectant sprays when spending time in the sun. Consider using a color-depositing conditioner or gloss to refresh the color and add shine between dye applications.