If you’ve ever bleached your hair, you know that it can be a harsh process that can leave your hair dry, brittle, and damaged. But what if you accidentally overdo it and end up with hair that’s too light or even white? Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to get bleach out of your hair without causing further damage.
The first step is to assess the damage. If your hair is only slightly too light, you may be able to correct it with a toner or color-depositing shampoo. However, if your hair is significantly damaged, you may need to use a more intensive treatment, such as a protein mask or hair glaze. In some cases, you may even need to cut off the damaged hair.
Once you’ve assessed the damage, you can start to take steps to correct it. If you’re using a toner or color-depositing shampoo, follow the instructions on the package. If you’re using a protein mask or hair glaze, apply it to your hair according to the directions and leave it on for the recommended amount of time. Once you’ve rinsed out the treatment, style your hair as usual. With a little care and attention, you can get your hair back to its natural color and restore its health.
Understanding Hair Bleaching
Hair bleaching is a chemical process that involves lightening the natural pigment (melanin) in your hair. It works by using a bleaching agent, typically hydrogen peroxide, to break down the melanin molecules and remove them from the hair shaft. This process can lighten your hair by several shades, depending on the strength of the bleach and the condition of your hair. It’s important to note that once your hair is bleached, it cannot be darkened back to its natural color without the use of hair dye.
Factors to Consider Before Bleaching
Before you bleach your hair, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Hair condition: Bleaching can damage your hair, especially if it’s already dry or damaged. Before you bleach, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional hairstylist to assess the health of your hair and determine if it’s suitable for bleaching.
- Natural hair color: The natural color of your hair will affect the results of bleaching. Darker hair will require more bleaching to achieve the desired level of lightness, while lighter hair will bleach more easily.
- Bleach strength: Bleaching products come in different strengths. The strength you choose will depend on the desired level of lightness and the condition of your hair. If you’re not sure what strength to use, it’s always best to consult with a professional hairstylist.
| Bleach Strength | Level of Lightness |
|---|---|
| 20 volume | Lightens hair up to 2 levels |
| 30 volume | Lightens hair up to 3 levels |
| 40 volume | Lightens hair up to 4 levels |
Identifying Bleach Stains
Bleach stains are typically white or yellow and have a distinctive chemical odor. They can occur on any type of fabric, but they are most common on white or light-colored fabrics. Bleach stains can be difficult to remove, but there are a few different methods that you can try.
The first step in removing a bleach stain is to identify the type of fabric that the stain is on. Different fabrics require different cleaning methods.
Once you have identified the type of fabric, you can choose a cleaning method. There are a few different ways to remove bleach stains, but the most common method is to use a bleach removal product. Bleach removal products are available at most grocery stores and hardware stores.
To use a bleach removal product, follow the instructions on the package. Be sure to test the product on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure that it does not damage the fabric.
If you do not have a bleach removal product, you can try using a solution of white vinegar and water. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl and apply the solution to the bleach stain. Let the solution sit for a few minutes and then blot it up with a clean cloth.
You can also try using a solution of baking soda and water. Mix equal parts baking soda and water in a bowl and apply the solution to the bleach stain. Let the solution sit for a few minutes and then blot it up with a clean cloth.
If the bleach stain is still visible after you have tried the above methods, you may need to take the item to a professional cleaner.
DIY Removal Methods with Household Products
Bleach can be a harsh chemical that can damage hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and discolored. If you’ve accidentally bleached your hair too much or are unhappy with the results, there are a few DIY methods you can try to remove the bleach and restore your hair’s health. These methods use household products that are gentle on hair and can help to remove bleach without further damage.
Dish Soap
Dish soap is a powerful degreaser that can help to strip away bleach from hair. To use dish soap to remove bleach, follow these steps:
- Wet your hair and apply a generous amount of dish soap to your hair, massaging it into a lather.
- Let the dish soap sit in your hair for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until the bleach has been removed from your hair.
Dish soap can be drying to hair, so be sure to condition your hair after using it to remove bleach.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help to lighten hair that has been bleached too dark. To use lemon juice to remove bleach, follow these steps:
- Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a bowl.
- Apply the lemon juice mixture to your hair and let it sit for 30-60 minutes.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until the bleach has been removed from your hair.
Lemon juice can be harsh on hair, so be sure to condition your hair after using it to remove bleach.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to remove bleach from hair. To use baking soda to remove bleach, follow these steps:
- Mix 1 part baking soda with 3 parts water to form a paste.
- Apply the baking soda paste to your hair and let it sit for 30-60 minutes.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until the bleach has been removed from your hair.
Baking soda can be drying to hair, so be sure to condition your hair after using it to remove bleach.
| Method | Time | Drying Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Dish Soap | 10-15 minutes | Mild |
| Lemon Juice | 30-60 minutes | Harsh |
| Baking Soda | 30-60 minutes | Mild |
Using Specialized Stain Removers
Specialized stain removers designed specifically for bleach stains offer a potent solution for removing stubborn discoloration. These products contain powerful bleaching agents that target and break down the chemical structure of the bleach, making it easier to lift from the hair.
Selecting the Right Stain Remover
When choosing a specialized stain remover, it’s crucial to carefully read the product label and select one specifically formulated for bleach stains. Some stain removers may be harsh on delicate hair types, so it’s essential to use a product that is gentle and safe for your hair.
Applying the Stain Remover
Before applying the stain remover, thoroughly wet your hair and apply a small amount to the stained area. Gently massage the product into the hair, taking care not to oversaturate it. Allow the stain remover to sit on your hair for the recommended amount of time, typically 15-30 minutes.
Rinsing and Neutralizing
After the recommended time, thoroughly rinse your hair with warm water to remove the stain remover. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore your hair’s moisture and prevent dryness. It’s important to neutralize the remaining bleach on your hair using a neutralizing shampoo or conditioner. This will help prevent further damage and discoloration.
| Product | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Bleach Buster | Powerful bleaching agents |
| OxiClean MaxForce | Safe for all hair types |
| Color Oops | Gentle on hair |
Professional Hair Treatment Options
If you’re considering professional hair treatments to remove bleach, here are a few options:
Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3
Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3 is a powerful hair treatment that can help to repair and strengthen damaged hair. It is particularly effective at repairing hair that has been bleached or chemically treated.
Bond Smoother
Bond smoothers are a type of hair treatment that can help to smooth and repair damaged hair. They work by filling in the damaged areas of the hair shaft, making the hair appear smoother and healthier.
Color Extraction
Color extraction is a process that can be used to remove bleach from hair. It involves using a chemical solution to break down the bleach molecules and remove them from the hair.
Hair Gloss
Hair gloss is a type of hair treatment that can help to add shine and color to hair. It can also help to even out the color of hair that has been bleached.
Professional Hair Mask Treatment
Professional hair mask treatments are specifically designed to address the needs of bleached hair. They typically contain ingredients that help to repair and hydrate damaged hair, restore shine, and strengthen the hair shaft.
| Treatment | Description | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3 | Repair and strengthen damaged hair | $28-$45 | 10-15 minutes |
| Bond Smoother | Smooth and repair damaged hair | $40-$60 | 20-30 minutes |
| Color Extraction | Remove bleach from hair | $50-$100 | 1-2 hours |
| Hair Gloss | Add shine and color to hair | $30-$60 | 15-30 minutes |
| Professional Hair Mask Treatment | Repair, hydrate, and strengthen bleached hair | $20-$50 | 20-30 minutes |
Preventing Bleach Stains
To avoid bleach stains on your skin, clothing, and surfaces, follow these precautions:
Use Protective Gear
Wear rubber gloves, an apron, and safety glasses when handling bleach. These items create a barrier between your skin and bleach, reducing the risk of stains.
Cover Surfaces
Protect carpets, furniture, and countertops with plastic drop cloths or towels. Bleach can damage exposed surfaces, causing discoloration or fading.
Test Bleach on Fabric
Before applying bleach to a garment, test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t damage the fabric. If color loss or discoloration occurs, do not use bleach on the entire item.
Rinse Thoroughly
After using bleach, rinse the affected area thoroughly with cold water. This removes any residual bleach and prevents it from staining the fabric or surface. Neutralize Bleach with Vinegar
If bleach has stained a surface, neutralize it with a vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 1 part water). Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water.
Treat Clothing Stains Immediately
If bleach stains a garment, treat it immediately. Soak the stained area in a cold water and vinegar solution (1 tablespoon vinegar to 1 cup water) for 30 minutes. Wash the garment as usual.
| Stain Type | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Bleach on skin | Rinse with cold water and apply a cold compress |
| Bleach on clothing | Rinse with cold water and treat with a vinegar solution |
| Bleach on carpet | Neutralize with a vinegar solution and blot with a clean cloth |
| Bleach on countertops | Rinse with cold water and apply a baking soda paste |
Maintenance Tips for Bleached Hair
Bleaching your hair can give you a stunning new look, but it’s important to take care of your tresses after the process to maintain their health and vibrancy.
Don’t Wash Your Hair Too Often
Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it dry and prone to breakage. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times per week.
Use Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo helps to prevent brassiness in bleached hair. Use it once or twice a week to keep your blonde looking cool and bright.
Condition Regularly
Conditioning your hair after every wash is essential to keep it hydrated and soft. Use a deep conditioner once a week to restore moisture and strength.
Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling tools can damage bleached hair, making it dry and brittle. Air-dry your hair whenever possible, and use a heat protectant spray if you need to use hot tools.
Get Regular Trims
Split ends can make bleached hair look dry and unkempt. Get regular trims to remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy.
Use a Leave-In Conditioner
A leave-in conditioner can help to keep your bleached hair hydrated and protected. Apply it to damp hair after washing and combing it through.
Protect Your Hair From Chlorine and Salt Water
Chlorine and salt water can damage bleached hair, so take precautions to protect it. Wet your hair before swimming and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a barrier. Rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming to remove any chlorine or salt.
| Frequency | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Twice a week | Use purple shampoo |
| Once a week | Condition with a deep conditioner |
| Every time you wash | Apply leave-in conditioner |
| Before swimming | Wet hair and apply leave-in conditioner |
| After swimming | Rinse hair with fresh water |
Avoiding Damaging Hair During Removal
To minimize hair damage while removing bleach, follow these tips:
1. Use a Color Remover
Color removers are specially formulated to break down artificial hair color, including bleach, without damaging the hair’s natural pigment.
2. Dilute the Remover
If the color remover is too concentrated, it can be harsh on the hair. Diluting it with water reduces its strength and minimizes damage.
3. Apply to Dry Hair
Applying the color remover to dry hair helps prevent it from absorbing water and becoming over-processed, leading to dryness and breakage.
4. Section the Hair
Divide the hair into sections and apply the color remover evenly to each section. This ensures thorough removal while preventing uneven lightening or damage.
5. Check Regularly
Monitor the hair while the color remover is processing. Check every 5-10 minutes to assess progress and avoid leaving it on for too long.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water after the processing time is complete. This removes any remaining bleach or color remover and prevents further damage.
7. Use a Deep Conditioner
After removing the bleach, apply a deep conditioner to nourish and repair the hair. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes to restore moisture and prevent breakage.
8. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling tools, such as blow dryers and flat irons, can further damage hair that has undergone bleach removal. Allow the hair to air dry completely or use a hooded dryer on a low heat setting.
| Color Remover for Bleach | Dilution Ratio |
|---|---|
| Clariol Color Remover | 1:2 (1 part remover, 2 parts water) |
| Grecian 20 | 1:1 (1 part remover, 1 part water) |
| L’Oréal Colorista Bleach Remover | 1:3 (1 part remover, 3 parts water) |
Alternative Bleaching Techniques
Lemon Juice
This natural bleaching agent can gradually lighten hair, especially when combined with sun exposure. Apply fresh lemon juice to dry hair and leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing it out.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea contains compounds that can subtly lighten hair, leaving it with a golden-blonde hue. Steep chamomile tea bags in hot water for 15 minutes, then apply the cooled tea to hair and let it sit for 30-60 minutes before rinsing.
Honey
Honey has humectant properties that can draw moisture into hair, causing it to swell and become less porous. This can make it easier for natural pigments in hair to be removed, resulting in a slight lightening effect. Apply honey to hair and leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, which is found in citrus fruits and vegetables, can act as a mild bleaching agent. Crush vitamin C tablets into a powder and mix them with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to hair and leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a stronger bleaching agent than the previous methods, but it should be used with caution as it can damage hair if used incorrectly. Mix 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 part water and apply it to hair for 15-30 minutes. Check the hair frequently to avoid over-bleaching.
Cinnamon and Olive Oil
Cinnamon and olive oil can be combined to create a natural lightening treatment. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and apply it to hair. Leave it on for 60 minutes before rinsing.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can help to remove buildup and discoloration from hair, which can make it appear lighter. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1/2 cup of water and apply it to hair. Leave it on for 30-60 minutes before rinsing.
Sun Exposure
Exposure to sunlight can naturally lighten hair, but it is important to use a UV protectant spray to minimize damage. Spend time in the sun for several hours, but be mindful of sunburns and heat damage.
DIY Bleach
It is possible to create a DIY bleach using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. However, it is crucial to proceed with caution and follow specific instructions to avoid damaging hair. This method is not recommended for beginner bleachers.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon Juice | Natural, less damaging | Gradual, may take several applications |
| Chamomile Tea | Gentle, adds golden hue | Subtle, may not be noticeable on darker hair |
| Honey | Nourishing, can improve hair health | Mild, may take longer to see results |
| Vitamin C | Mild bleaching effect | Can dry out hair if used too often |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Stronger bleaching effect | Can damage hair if used improperly |
| Cinnamon and Olive Oil | Natural, adds warmth | Can be drying |
| Baking Soda | Removes buildup, clarifies | Can be harsh on hair if used too much |
| Sun Exposure | Natural, no chemicals | Can damage hair, risk of sunburn |
| DIY Bleach | Stronger than alternative methods | High risk of damage if not done correctly |
Safety Precautions for Bleach Removal
Bleach removal can be a tricky and potentially damaging process. To minimize the risk of damage to your hair and scalp, it is crucial to follow these safety precautions:
1. Conduct a Strand Test
Before applying any bleach removal products to your entire head of hair, perform a strand test. This involves applying the product to a small section of hair and observing the results. If the strand shows signs of damage, discontinue use immediately.
2. Protect Your Scalp
Apply a barrier cream or petroleum jelly to your hairline and ears to protect them from irritation.
3. Use Low-Strength Products
Start with a low-strength bleach removal product and gradually increase the strength if necessary. Using a product that is too strong can cause severe hair damage.
4. Monitor the Process
Check your hair regularly throughout the bleach removal process. If you notice any signs of damage, such as hair breakage or discoloration, stop the process immediately.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have achieved the desired level of bleach removal, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. This will remove any residual bleach or chemicals.
6. Avoid Overprocessing
Bleach removal can be a time-consuming process. It is important to avoid overprocessing your hair, as this can lead to dryness, breakage, and other damage.
7. Condition Your Hair
After the bleach removal process, condition your hair thoroughly to restore moisture and prevent further damage.
8. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling can further damage hair that has undergone bleach removal. Allow your hair to air dry or use heat protectant products if you must use heat.
9. Get Professional Help if Needed
If you are unable to achieve the desired results from home bleach removal, consult a professional hair stylist for guidance.
10. **Proper Ventilation:**
Ensure the area you are using for bleach removal is well-ventilated to minimize inhalation of chemical fumes. Consider using an exhaust fan or opening windows to promote airflow.
How To Get Bleach Out Of Hair
If you’re not happy with the results of your bleach job, there are a few things you can do to get the bleach out of your hair. One option is to use a color remover. Color removers are available at most beauty supply stores. They work by breaking down the pigment in your hair, which will allow you to wash out the bleach.
Another option is to use a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup and dirt from your hair. They can also help to remove bleach. To use a clarifying shampoo, simply wet your hair and massage the shampoo into your scalp. Rinse your hair thoroughly and repeat if necessary.
If you’re looking for a more natural way to get bleach out of your hair, you can try using lemon juice. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent. To use lemon juice, simply mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto your hair and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly and repeat if necessary.
People Also Ask About How To Get Bleach Out Of Hair
What are the different ways to get bleach out of hair?
There are a few different ways to get bleach out of hair, including using a color remover, a clarifying shampoo, or lemon juice.
Which method is the most effective?
The most effective method for getting bleach out of hair depends on the individual. Some people find that color removers work best, while others find that clarifying shampoos or lemon juice are more effective.
How long does it take to get bleach out of hair?
The time it takes to get bleach out of hair depends on the method you use and the condition of your hair. Color removers can work in as little as 30 minutes, while clarifying shampoos and lemon juice may take longer.
