Bleaching your hair can be a fun way to switch up your look or add some dimension to your hair color. However, it's important to do it correctly to avoid damaging your hair. If you have short hair, bleaching can be a bit trickier since you have less hair to work with. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to bleach your short hair at home.
How to Bleach My Short Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You'll need:
- Bleach powder
- Developer
- Gloves
- Mixing bowl
- Applicator brush or bottle
- Plastic wrap
- Towel
You can find these supplies at most beauty supply stores or online.
Step 2: Protect Your Skin and Clothing
Bleach can be harsh on your skin, so it's important to protect it by wearing gloves and applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly along your hairline and ears. You should also wear old clothing that you don't mind getting bleach on.
Step 3: Mix the Bleach
Follow the instructions on your bleach powder and developer to mix them together in a bowl. Make sure to mix it thoroughly until it's smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Apply the Bleach
Using your applicator brush or bottle, apply the bleach to your hair starting at the ends and working your way up. Make sure to saturate your hair evenly, but avoid applying it to your scalp.
Step 5: Cover Your Hair
Once you've applied the bleach, cover your hair with plastic wrap to help it process. You can also use a towel to wrap around your head to keep the heat in.
Step 6: Check the Color
After about 30 minutes, check the color of your hair. If it's not light enough, leave the bleach on for a few more minutes. Keep checking every 5-10 minutes until you reach your desired color.
Step 7: Rinse Your Hair
Once you're happy with the color, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water. Make sure to rinse all the bleach out of your hair to avoid any damage.
Step 8: Condition Your Hair
Bleaching can be harsh on your hair, so it's important to condition it afterwards. Use a deep conditioning treatment to help restore moisture and prevent damage.
Tips for Bleaching Short Hair
Bleaching short hair can be a bit more challenging than longer hair. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
- Work in small sections to ensure even coverage
- Use a brush to apply the bleach to the roots
- Avoid overlapping the bleach on previously bleached hair
- Use a lower-volume developer if you have thin or damaged hair
- Don't leave the bleach on for too long to avoid damage
FAQ
Can I bleach my short hair at home?
Yes, you can bleach your short hair at home. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use the proper supplies.
How often can I bleach my hair?
It's not recommended to bleach your hair more than once every 4-6 weeks to avoid damage.
Can I bleach my hair if I have colored hair?
Yes, you can bleach your hair if you have colored hair. However, keep in mind that the bleach may not lift the color completely and you may need to bleach it multiple times.
Hair Care After Bleaching
Bleaching can be damaging to your hair, so it's important to take care of it afterwards. Here are some tips to help keep your hair healthy:
- Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week
- Avoid using heat styling tools
- Use a heat protectant spray if you do use heat styling tools
- Minimize washing your hair to avoid stripping it of natural oils
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
With these tips and our step-by-step guide, you can bleach your short hair at home with confidence. Just remember to take your time and be gentle with your hair to avoid any damage.
