Bleaching powder for hair, also known as hair bleach or lightener, is a product used to lighten hair color by removing the natural pigment.
It is a chemical process that can be damaging to hair if not done correctly, but with proper precautions and technique, it can be a safe and effective way to achieve a wide range of hair colors.
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What Is Bleaching Powder for Hair Made Of?
Bleaching powder for hair is made up of two components: an alkaline powder and a developer.
The alkaline powder is typically made of a mixture of magnesium, calcium, and other alkaline chemicals, while the developer is usually hydrogen peroxide.
When mixed together, the alkaline powder and developer create a chemical reaction that removes the melanin, or natural pigment, from the hair.
Before using bleaching powder for hair, it is important to determine whether your hair is healthy enough to withstand the process. Bleaching can be damaging to hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
If your hair is already damaged or fragile, it may not be able to handle the stress of bleaching.
If you decide to proceed with bleaching, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and use the right products.
There are many different types of bleaching powder on the market, each with different strengths and formulations.
It is important to choose a product that is appropriate for your hair type and the color you want to achieve.
When mixing the bleaching powder and developer, it is important to use the right proportions.
Most products will come with instructions on how to mix the two components, but as a general rule, the mixture should be a thick, creamy consistency that can be easily applied to the hair.
Once the mixture is ready, it is time to apply it to the hair. It is important to wear gloves and protect your skin and clothing from the bleach, as it can cause irritation and staining.
Begin by sectioning your hair and applying the bleach to the ends first, as they will take longer to lighten than the roots.
Work your way up to the roots, being careful not to overlap the bleach onto previously bleached hair.
As the bleach works its magic, it is important to keep an eye on the hair to prevent over-processing. Bleaching powder can lighten hair quickly, so it is important to check the color every 10-15 minutes.
Once the desired level of lightness has been achieved, rinse the hair thoroughly with cool water and apply a conditioning treatment to help restore moisture and prevent further damage.
One important thing to keep in mind is that bleaching powder can only lighten hair, not darken it. If your hair is naturally dark or has been previously colored a darker shade, you may need to undergo multiple rounds of bleaching to achieve the desired lightness.
This can be a time-consuming and damaging process, so it is important to be patient and take breaks between each round of bleaching to give your hair time to recover.
In addition to the potential damage to hair, bleaching powder can also cause skin irritation and even chemical burns if not used correctly.
It is important to follow all safety precautions and to test the bleach on a small section of hair or skin before applying it to your entire head.
If you are new to bleaching, it may be a good idea to seek the advice of a professional hairstylist.
A trained stylist can help you determine whether bleaching is right for you and can provide guidance on which products to use and how to achieve the best results.
Photo Credits: Davines