Oops
, sorry, I didn't realize that you are bleaching on your own, without hairdresser's help. You are courageous!
So how did it go?
I really hope your hair is holding up well!
You only need to lift with bleach to the
level you want... there probably will be brassiness... so try to resist the temptation to bleach it out. Instead, use a toner - yes, it's quite drying, but bleach is worse. Plus, using purple shampoos/conditioners every time brassiness is coming back will be helpful.
I just wanted to add that if your hair feels at all gummy or stretchy as you are washing it or if you see any broken hairs at all, get a strong hydrolyzed protein filler/treatment (e.g. Aphogee 2-Step).
And prior to washing (do try stretching washes if you can
), regular pre-poo oiling is very good practice for chemically processed hair.
As for the rest: avoiding all damage, sleeping on silky materials, putting hair up or keeping it otherwise contained, protecting it with hats/scarves, not overwashing and not overbrushing it, etc... are all important. Treat hair like "antique lace", as we say around the LHC - and this saying is probably even more important for processed hair.
Best of luck!
And keep us posted how it goes.
^ This is excellent advice.
Also, I really agree with
Rapunzel_to_be and
floraflowerpowe that bleach is very rough on hair, especially if you want to grow it out long and strong and fuss-free. Generally, damage-free alternatives like wigs, extensions for highlights or even temporary hair chalk are pretty good and underrated... though of course they aren't always as satisfying. )
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