How to Hydrate Hair After Bleaching?

When you’re trying to change your look altogether or just add some dimension and pops of color, you can bet that bleach will be involved at some point. Bleach is a miracle worker! It can take a brunette and show them if blondes really do have more fun or take you from ashy to ice queen in no time! As well all know though, bleach can be very damaging to hair and maintenance is a requirement both during and after your service. Bleach can dry your hair out and if applied too often, have you dealing with breakage to boot. So we’re here to give ALL the tips on how to hydrate hair after bleaching!

What is Bleach?

Bleaching your hair is a chemical process that opens the cuticle of the hair and strips it of all color. The bleach penetrates deep into the cortex of the hair to dissolve the color but you won’t quite be Elsa with one bleaching session if your hair is dark. If you’re wanting to go from brunette to platinum, it’s going to take some time. The longer you leave bleach on the hair, the lighter it will become. Basic hair products can assist in the bleaching process to ensure the hair is not too damaged by the end of it all.

How Does Bleach Damage Hair?

Bleach changes the structure of the hair follicles by compromising its elasticity and its porosity. The more porous your hair is, the more open the hair’s cuticle will be and the more open your hair’s cuticle is, the better chance you have of the hair splitting and breaking off. Your hair strands are also made up of fatty acids which are stripped when bleach gets deep into the hair shaft, which causes overall weaker hair.

Read More About How Often Should You Condition Your Hair?

What Can I Do About Weak, Dry Hair After Bleaching?

There are basic hair products that everyone should have in their arsenal when trying to hydrate their hair post-bleach. Keep in mind, the products you buy from your hair salon and those that can be purchased from drug stores and grocery stores are not the same. You may even find the same brands at the store that you see in your salon, but oftentimes the formula is not the same. It’s always best to purchase your products right from your hairdresser. Let’s take a look at some basic hair products that will work wonders on bleached hair.

 

• Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner: A great shampoo and conditioner are essential, as they will help to cleanse your hair while providing it with much-needed hydration. Look for sulfate-free options if possible and avoid anything with alcohol as this will only dry out your hair more. Good hair products are essential for everyone’s mane but especially when you’re using bleach. 
• Minimize Washing: A shower cap is about to be your new best friend! Since bleach has already compromised your hair, it’s best to go about 3-4 days between washes. Shampoo can strip your hair of its already lacking natural oils, making it look duller and feel dryer. Dry shampoo is one of the best, basic hair products to keep on hand, especially if you’re trying to wash less but still want a fresh look.
• Masks and Deep Conditioners: Hair masks and deep conditioners work wonders when your hair is looking and feeling dry! There are so many restorative hair masks that you can choose from and an abundance of DIY recipes for masks and deep conditioning treatments that you can find online, utilizing things you probably already have in your kitchen! Basic hair products don’t need to be expensive to be effective!
• Skip the Heat: While this is usually something none of us want to do, giving your hot tools a rest is one of the best things that you can do for your hair. Heat is inevitably going to dry out your hair and damage it even more, so allowing your hair to take a break from heat is a great, free way to help combat the damage–especially for the first few weeks after your hair is bleached and is most susceptible to further damage.
• Lifestyle Changes: Another fantastic and free way to rehydrate your hair is to rehydrate your body itself! Drinking more water and adjusting your diet can work wonders for the overall health of your hair and get it back to where it needs to be!

Conclusion

While we all have our own hair goals, it’s important to not let the maintenance of your hair fall by the wayside, especially after bleach. Basic hair products can work wonders for the rehydration and protection of your hair and keep it looking and feeling great in between services. If you’re unsure which products would be right for your hair in its current state, consult your hairdresser! Your stylist knows your hair well and will be able to point you in the right direction as far as products go. Most salons have a product section where you can purchase your new go-to items conveniently after your salon service as well!