Can You Bleach or Dye Your Hair After a Rebond: Expert Advice and Best Practices
The process of rebonding involves using relaxing agents to alter the natural texture and growth direction of your hair. This process can make your hair more manageable, but it also leaves it delicate and vulnerable to further chemical treatments. If you’re considering bleaching or dyeing your hair after a rebond, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and recommended practices to maintain the health of your hair. Here’s what you need to know.
Options for Immediate Aftercare
Most experts agree that immediate hair coloring is not recommended after a rebonding process. However, modern haircare techniques have made it possible to opt for certain less invasive treatments, like acid shades or color conditioners.
Acid Shades and Color Conditioners: In cases where you want to change the color of your hair right after rebonding, it might be possible to choose an acid-based shade or color conditioner. These are specially designed to be gentler on the hair and scalp, providing a safer alternative to full oxidation hair dye. If you decide to go this route, ensure that the product you use is suitable for hair that has been recently bonded. Always perform a patch test before applying any new product to your hair.
Waiting Period for Oxidation Colors
For more permanent color changes, such as oxidation-based hair dye, you’ll need to wait a bit longer after the rebonding process. Typically, it is advised to wait at least two weeks before applying an oxidation hair dye. This waiting period allows the hair to recover and stabilize from the rebonding chemicals, reducing the risk of damage and discomfort.
Why the Waiting Period Is Important:
Allowing the hair to heal post-rebonding enables it to better withstand the chemical processes involved in hair dying.
Waiting minimizes the risk of chemical reactions between the rebonding agents and the new hair dye, which could lead to severe damage and an unpleasant scalp experience.
Do Not Undergo Multiple Treatments
Avoid Overprocessing: It’s important to understand that undergoing multiple hair treatments, especially those that involve chemicals, can be extremely harmful to your hair. Repeated use of chemicals, such as bleach or strong dyes, can strip the hair of its natural oils and proteins, making it dryer and more prone to breakage.
The Risk of Hair Loss: Multiple chemical treatments can also lead to hair loss. If you’re considering bleaching and dyeing your hair after a rebond, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential risks. If you must undergo hair bleaching or dyeing, it’s best to consult a professional who can minimize the damage and recommend the safest options for your hair.
Safest Practices for Aftercare
Even if you decide to proceed with hair coloring after a rebonding, it’s essential to take certain precautions to protect your hair and scalp:
Limit the Application to New Growth:
If you want to lighten your hair, consider doing so only on new growth, starting from the roots. This approach allows you to gradually transition to your desired hair color, giving your hair a chance to recover between each application.
Seek Professional Help:
If you must bleach your previously rebonded hair, get professional help. Steer clear of DIY or over-the-counter bleaching kits, as these products may not be as safe or effective as those used by trained professionals.
Follow Up with Hair Moisturizers:
After bleaching or dyeing, use products fortified with Olaplex or similar hair-care solutions. These products help repair and nourish the hair, thereby reducing the risk of further damage.
Key Takeaways:
Avoid immediate hair dyeing or bleaching after rebonding.
Wait at least two weeks for oxidation-based hair dye.
Limit application to only new growth and seek professional help for advanced treatments.
Use hair conditioners and moisturizers to repair any damage.
Rebonding your hair is a significant undertaking that requires proper care. By understanding the risks associated with hair dyeing and bleaching, you can enjoy a fuller, healthier head of hair while preserving its integrity.