For medium brown hair or darker, you’ll probably need to bleach 2-3 times. For light brown hair, you’ll probably need to bleach 1-2 times. For dark blonde to blonde hair, you’ll probably only need to bleach once.
Focus on deep-conditioning your hair several times in the weeks leading up to bleaching. This can help minimize damage and breakage.
Volume 40 is the strongest developer. It will lift four levels, or shades, from your hair. It’s not recommended when dyeing all of your hair because it’s too strong to use near the scalp. Vol 40 is mostly used for highlights. [4] X Research source Volume 30 will lift two to three levels. If this doesn’t get you to level 10 blonde, you will have to repeat the bleaching procedure in 2 weeks. Volume 20 will lift one to two levels. When in doubt, go for a volume 20. You can always repeat the process in a few weeks.
If your product suggests a ratio that’s not 1:1, follow those directions. Once mixed, you need to proceed with the bleaching process immediately. The chemicals will lose their effectiveness if left sitting out.
At this point, drape a towel around your shoulders to protect your skin during the process.
Once the section is saturated with the mixture, clip it out of the way. You need to work quickly, but also carefully – bleach can burn your skin. Have a friend help you if this is your first time bleaching your hair. Some people save the root areas for last because they can process faster than the rest of your hair.
At this point you can wrap your hair in saran wrap or place a shower cap over it, which can help with dripping and prevent the mixture from drying out. However, it’s not required. [7] X Research source
You should check your hair often during this 30 minute interval to avoid over-processing. Never leave bleach on your hair longer than one hour. [9] X Research source
If your hair hasn’t reached level 10, slather your hair in a good conditioner and then rinse after about 10 minutes. Wait at least 2 weeks before attempting to bleach again. If you have reached level 10, do not condition your hair at this point. Move on to toning first; you’ll condition your hair after that. [11] X Research source
You can use purple shampoo every time you wash your hair, or you can use it intermittently. If you choose to use regular shampoo sometimes, make sure it’s sulfate-free and formulated for use on color-treated hair. If you shampoo your hair on a daily basis, using a purple shampoo every day may give your hair a purple tint.
