Bleached hair can be a beautiful canvas for various hair colours, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common concerns for people with bleached hair is whether they can achieve a permanent colour. In this article, we will delve into the world of hair colouring and explore the possibilities of putting a permanent colour on bleached hair.
Understanding Bleached Hair
Before we dive into the world of hair colouring, it’s essential to understand the process of bleaching hair. Bleaching is a chemical process that strips the hair of its natural pigment, resulting in a lighter shade. The bleaching process can be damaging to the hair, especially if done incorrectly or without proper care. Bleached hair is more prone to dryness, brittleness, and breakage due to the loss of natural oils and moisture.
The Structure of Hair
To understand how hair colour works, it’s crucial to know the structure of hair. Hair is made up of three layers: the medulla, cortex, and cuticle. The medulla is the innermost layer, but it’s not always present in every hair strand. The cortex is the middle layer, responsible for the hair’s strength, elasticity, and texture. The cuticle is the outermost layer, a thin, transparent layer that protects the hair from damage.
How Hair Colour Works
Hair colour is deposited into the cortex, the middle layer of the hair. The colour molecules penetrate the cuticle and enter the cortex, where they bind to the keratin proteins. The colour is then trapped inside the hair shaft, resulting in a coloured appearance. Permanent hair colour is achieved when the colour molecules are locked into the cortex, creating a long-lasting colour effect.
Can You Put a Permanent Colour on Bleached Hair?
Now that we understand the structure of hair and how hair colour works, let’s address the question: can you put a permanent colour on bleached hair? The answer is yes, but it’s not always a straightforward process. Bleached hair can be more challenging to colour, especially if it’s been over-bleached or damaged.
Challenges of Colouring Bleached Hair
Bleached hair can be prone to several challenges when it comes to colouring:
- Porosity: Bleached hair can have a higher porosity, making it more difficult for the colour molecules to penetrate the hair shaft.
- Damage: Bleached hair can be damaged, leading to a rougher cuticle and a more challenging colouring process.
- Unpredictable Results: Bleached hair can be unpredictable when it comes to colouring, as the results may vary depending on the condition of the hair.
How to Achieve a Permanent Colour on Bleached Hair
To achieve a permanent colour on bleached hair, follow these steps:
- Prep the Hair: Before colouring, make sure to prep the hair with a pre-colour treatment to open up the cuticle and allow the colour molecules to penetrate.
- Choose the Right Colour: Select a colour that’s suitable for bleached hair, taking into account the condition and porosity of the hair.
- Use a High-Lift Colour: High-lift colours are designed to penetrate the hair shaft more easily, making them ideal for bleached hair.
- Follow the Instructions: Always follow the instructions provided with the hair colour, and be sure to perform a strand test before applying the colour to the entire head.
Types of Hair Colour for Bleached Hair
There are several types of hair colour that can be used on bleached hair, including:
- Permanent Hair Colour: Permanent hair colour is the most common type of hair colour, and it’s available in a wide range of shades.
- Semi-Permanent Hair Colour: Semi-permanent hair colour is a great option for those who want to add a temporary colour to their bleached hair.
- Demi-Permanent Hair Colour: Demi-permanent hair colour is a type of hair colour that’s more permanent than semi-permanent but less damaging than permanent hair colour.
Colour Depositing Treatments
Colour depositing treatments are a great way to add a temporary colour to bleached hair. These treatments can be used to enhance the existing colour or to add a new colour dimension. Colour depositing treatments are available in various forms, including:
- Colour Depositing Masks: Colour depositing masks are a type of hair mask that deposits colour onto the hair shaft.
- Colour Depositing Serums: Colour depositing serums are a type of hair serum that deposits colour onto the hair shaft.
Conclusion
In conclusion, putting a permanent colour on bleached hair is possible, but it requires careful consideration and the right techniques. By understanding the structure of hair, the challenges of colouring bleached hair, and the types of hair colour available, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting colour effect. Remember to always follow the instructions provided with the hair colour, and be sure to perform a strand test before applying the colour to the entire head.
| Colour Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Permanent Hair Colour | A type of hair colour that’s available in a wide range of shades and is the most common type of hair colour. |
| Semi-Permanent Hair Colour | A type of hair colour that’s great for adding a temporary colour to bleached hair. |
| Demi-Permanent Hair Colour | A type of hair colour that’s more permanent than semi-permanent but less damaging than permanent hair colour. |
By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can achieve a beautiful, permanent colour on your bleached hair. Remember to always prioritize hair care and use the right products to maintain the health and integrity of your hair.
What is the best way to colour bleached hair?
The best way to colour bleached hair is to use a high-lift colour or a toner, as these products are specifically designed to penetrate and colour porous hair. It’s also essential to choose a colour that complements your skin tone and natural hair colour. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional hairstylist who can help you determine the most suitable colour for your bleached hair.
Before colouring your bleached hair, make sure to perform a strand test to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions. It’s also crucial to follow the instructions carefully and to use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain the colour and health of your hair.
Can I use permanent hair dye on bleached hair?
Yes, you can use permanent hair dye on bleached hair, but it’s essential to take some precautions. Bleached hair is more porous, which can cause the colour to fade faster. To achieve a long-lasting colour, it’s recommended to use a colour-depositing treatment before applying the permanent dye. This will help to fill in the porous gaps and ensure a more even colour distribution.
When using permanent hair dye on bleached hair, it’s also crucial to choose a colour that’s not too harsh or damaging. Opt for a colour that’s one to two shades lighter than your desired colour, as this will help to prevent over-processing and damage. Additionally, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head.
How long does it take for colour to fade on bleached hair?
The length of time it takes for colour to fade on bleached hair depends on several factors, including the type of colour used, the porosity of the hair, and how well the hair is maintained. Generally, colour on bleached hair can last anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, with the colour fading faster if the hair is not properly cared for.
To extend the life of the colour, it’s essential to use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner, and to avoid using hot water or heat styling tools too frequently. You can also use a colour-depositing treatment once a week to help maintain the colour and vibrancy of your hair.
What are the risks of colouring bleached hair?
Colouring bleached hair can come with some risks, including damage, breakage, and uneven colour distribution. Bleached hair is more porous, which can cause the colour to penetrate too deeply, leading to over-processing and damage. Additionally, if the colour is not applied correctly, it can cause uneven colour distribution, resulting in patchy or streaky hair.
To minimize the risks, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and to perform a strand test before applying the colour to your entire head. It’s also crucial to choose a colour that’s not too harsh or damaging, and to use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain the health and integrity of your hair.
Can I colour my bleached hair at home?
Yes, you can colour your bleached hair at home, but it’s essential to take some precautions. Colouring bleached hair can be tricky, and if not done correctly, it can lead to damage, breakage, and uneven colour distribution. To achieve the best results, it’s recommended to use a high-quality colour product and to follow the instructions carefully.
Before colouring your bleached hair at home, make sure to perform a strand test to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions. It’s also crucial to use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain the health and integrity of your hair. If you’re unsure or have previously coloured or damaged hair, it’s always best to consult a professional hairstylist.
How can I maintain the colour of my bleached hair?
To maintain the colour of your bleached hair, it’s essential to use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner. These products are specifically designed to help lock in the colour and moisture of your hair, preventing fading and dryness. You can also use a colour-depositing treatment once a week to help maintain the colour and vibrancy of your hair.
In addition to using the right products, it’s also crucial to avoid using hot water or heat styling tools too frequently, as these can cause the colour to fade faster. You can also use a colour-protecting spray or serum to help shield your hair from the sun’s UV rays, which can also cause the colour to fade.
Is it possible to achieve a permanent colour solution for bleached hair?
While it’s not possible to achieve a completely permanent colour solution for bleached hair, there are some options available that can help to extend the life of the colour. One option is to use a colour-depositing treatment, which can help to fill in the porous gaps and ensure a more even colour distribution.
Another option is to use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent colour, which can help to maintain the colour and vibrancy of your hair for longer. These types of colours are less damaging than permanent colours and can be reapplied as needed to maintain the desired colour. However, it’s essential to note that even with these options, the colour will eventually fade, and regular touch-ups may be necessary to maintain the desired colour.