To transition bright red hair to blonde, you'll need to bleach your hair to remove the red pigment and then tone it to achieve your desired blonde shade. This process requires careful execution to minimize damage and achieve the best results.
Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:
1. Assessment and Preparation
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Assess Hair Condition: Evaluate the health of your hair. Bleaching can be damaging, so ensure your hair is strong enough to withstand the process. If your hair is already damaged, consider deep conditioning treatments for several weeks before attempting to bleach it.
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Gather Supplies: You'll need:
- Bleach powder
- Developer (10, 20, or 30 volume – see below for guidance)
- Mixing bowl and applicator brush
- Gloves
- Old towel or cape to protect clothing
- Toner
- Purple shampoo
- Deep conditioner
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Strand Test: Perform a strand test to determine how your hair will react to the bleach and toner. This will help you avoid unwanted surprises and minimize potential damage. Apply the bleach mixture to a small, hidden section of your hair and check the results after the recommended processing time.
2. Bleaching Process
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Developer Volume: Choosing the right developer volume is crucial. Start with a lower volume to minimize damage. Consider these guidelines:
- 10 Volume: Ideal for very light red hair or for gradual lightening.
- 20 Volume: A good option for most red shades, providing a moderate lift.
- 30 Volume: Use with caution, primarily for very dark red hair, and only if your hair is in good condition.
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Mixing: Mix the bleach powder and developer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Application: Apply the bleach evenly to your hair, starting from the roots (if they are virgin hair) or avoiding the roots initially if they've been previously bleached, as the heat from your scalp will process the bleach faster.
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Processing Time: Monitor the bleaching process closely. Check your strand test and follow the guidelines from that experiment. Never exceed the maximum recommended processing time specified by the bleach manufacturer. The goal is to lift as much red pigment as possible without causing excessive damage. You will likely need multiple bleaching sessions.
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Rinsing and Conditioning: Thoroughly rinse the bleach from your hair and apply a deep conditioner to help restore moisture and protein.
3. Toning
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Understanding Toner: Toner neutralizes unwanted undertones (orange, yellow) left after bleaching. Choose a toner that will counteract the remaining warm tones in your hair.
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Application: Apply the toner according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Processing Time: Monitor the toning process carefully to achieve the desired blonde shade.
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Rinsing and Conditioning: Rinse the toner and apply a deep conditioner.
4. Maintenance
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Purple Shampoo: Use purple shampoo regularly to maintain the blonde color and prevent brassiness.
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Deep Conditioning: Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it healthy and hydrated.
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Minimize Heat Styling: Reduce the use of heat styling tools to prevent further damage.
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Professional Assistance: Consider consulting a professional hairstylist, especially if you have a dark red hair or if you're concerned about damaging your hair. They can provide expert advice and perform the color correction process safely and effectively.
Bleaching is inherently damaging, especially when transitioning from a strong color like red to blonde. Be patient, prioritize the health of your hair, and consider seeking professional help for the best results.
