Everything You Need to Know About Bleaching Hair Extensions

One of the most exciting aspects of using hair extensions is the ability to experiment with different colors. However, what if you find the perfect texture and length in an extension, but the color is not quite right? The solution is simple: dye it. But what if you want a brighter color that requires bleaching first? Many people are hesitant to bleach their hair extensions at home due to concerns about damage. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of safely bleaching hair extensions at home, ensuring that you achieve the desired results without compromising the integrity of the hair.

Can You Bleach Hair Extensions? 

Yes, you can bleach human hair extensions safely. Human hair extensions are ideal for bleaching because they have not undergone chemical processing, which means the cuticle is intact. As a result, there is minimal damage to the hair when bleached. Synthetic hair, on the other hand, has already been chemically processed, leading to an opened cuticle. Bleaching synthetic hair can cause significant damage due to the application of additional chemicals. For this reason, it is recommended to bleach only human hair extensions.

How to Safely Bleach Hair Extensions at Home?

Bleaching human hair extensions at home can be done safely, provided you follow the correct steps. Before you begin, gather the necessary items:

• Powder bleach
• Volume 20 developer (the volume you use depends on how fast you want your hair extensions to bleach, but to avoid damage, use a volume 20 developer)
• Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
• Wide-tooth comb
• Latex gloves
• Mixing bowl and applicator brush
• Neutralizing shampoo and conditioner
• Protein treatment

Prep the Hair Extensions: If the hair extension is dirty, wash it first before bleaching. However, do not bleach the extension immediately after washing. Allow the extension to sit for about three to four days before bleaching.

Step-by-Step Guide to Bleaching Human Hair Extensions:

Step 1: Mix the Powder Bleach and Developer:

• Add two scoops of powder bleach to the mixing bowl.
• Gradually stir in the developer using the applicator brush until you achieve a creamy consistency.
• If the mixture is too watery, add more powder bleach until you reach the desired consistency. Set the mixture aside.

Step 2: Lay the Hair Extension on a Flat Surface and Detangle:

• Cover the surface with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the bleach mixture from staining it.
• Lay the extension on the plastic wrap and unravel the bundle.
• Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle the hair, removing any major knots or tangles. You can finish with a fine-tooth comb for a smoother finish.

Step 3: Apply Bleach to the Hair Extension:

• Wear latex gloves to protect your hands from the bleach.
• Use the applicator brush to apply bleach to the hair extension, starting at the ends and working your way up.
• Ensure the bleach is applied generously and evenly to avoid uneven results.
• Flip the bundle to the other side and repeat the bleaching process.
• Once the extension is fully coated, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Step 4: Let the Hair Extension Process:

• Follow the processing time recommended on the bleach packaging, usually between 30 to 45 minutes.
• Check the extension every ten minutes to ensure it is processing properly.
• Do not leave the bleach on for more than 45 minutes, as it may overprocess and damage the extension.

Step 5: Wash Off the Bleach and Air Dry:

• Rinse the extension bundle under cool running water to remove the bleach thoroughly.
• Wash the extension with neutralizing shampoo to neutralize the bleach.
• Rinse off the shampoo with cold water and apply a protein treatment to the hair.
• Rinse off the protein treatment and deep condition the hair extension to keep it hydrated.
• Allow the extension to air dry.
• 

Care Tips for Bleached Hair Extensions:

Tip 1: Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: Switch to a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to help maintain the vibrancy of your bleached hair extensions. These products are formulated to be gentle on color-treated hair.

Tip 2: Avoid Overwashing: Washing your hair extensions too frequently can strip them of natural oils and cause the color to fade faster. Aim to wash your hair extensions no more than 2-3 times a week.

Tip 3: Use a Heat Protectant: Before using heat styling tools such as flat irons or curling irons, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair extensions. This will help protect them from heat damage and maintain their color and texture.

Tip 4: Deep Condition Regularly: Bleaching can leave hair extensions dry and brittle. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep them hydrated and healthy.

Tip 5: Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater: Chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on bleached hair extensions and cause the color to fade. If you plan on swimming, wear a swim cap or apply a leave-in conditioner to protect your extensions.

Tip 6: Trim Regularly: Just like natural hair, bleached hair extensions can develop split ends. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks can help keep your extensions looking fresh and prevent further damage.

Tip 7: Avoid Overprocessing: Bleaching your hair extensions too frequently can lead to damage and breakage. Avoid overprocessing by giving your hair a break between bleaching sessions.

Tip 8: Protect Your Hair While Sleeping: Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent tangling while you sleep. You can also tie your hair up in a loose braid or bun to prevent it from rubbing against the pillow.

Tip 9: Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh styling products or chemicals on your bleached hair extensions, as they can cause damage and accelerate color fading.

By following these care tips, you can help maintain the health, color, and longevity of your bleached hair extensions, ensuring that they continue to look beautiful and vibrant for as long as possible.

In Conclusion: 

Bleaching human hair extensions at home can be a rewarding process when done correctly. By following this step-by-step guide, you can safely bleach your hair extensions and achieve the blonde extensions you desire. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with bleaching, as improper bleaching can damage the extension. To ensure the safety of your hair extensions, consider purchasing pre-bleached blonde hair extensions from Elfin Hair. Their range of blonde hair extensions offers a safe and convenient alternative to bleaching at home.

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