How to Achieve Platinum Blonde Hair: Expert Tips and Professional Help
Many people dream of achieving platinum blonde hair, but it can be a challenging journey. Whether you're naturally blonde or want to take your hair color to new heights, here are some expert tips and advice on how to achieve and maintain that lustrous platinum blonde look.
Why a Professional Colorist Is Essential
Why is it so difficult to achieve a platinum blonde hair look? It's because color does not lighten color. Even if you're naturally blonde, your hair requires bleaching to lift the color fully. This process should be done by a professional colorist due to the extensive use of chemicals involved.
Why It's Important: Trying to achieve platinum blonde hair too quickly or directly can lead to a range of problems, including fried or orange hair, a burning scalp, and overall hair damage. A professional colorist will help you avoid these risks and guide you through the process step-by-step.
Preparation: The Foundation for Success
Preparation for the Process
Start with a Clean Slate: For natural, effortless platinum blonde hair, start with virgin hair. This means growing out any previous dye. Hair tends to grow about one inch per month, so you'll have around three inches of virgin roots in six months and six inches in a year. If you still have dark ends, they may cause an orange tinge after bleaching.
Condition Your Hair: Always start by deeply conditioning your hair. For best results, a professional deep conditioning treatment is recommended. If this is not within your budget, use a few deep conditioning hair masks leading up to the bleaching process.
Stop Washing Your Hair: Your hair's natural oils will help protect it from the bleach. However, going into the process with freshly washed hair can cause more damage. Give your hair time to produce its natural oils before starting the bleaching process.
Getting Your Hair Professionally Bleached
Find a Good Salon: Bleaching your hair platinum blonde is a long process that involves many chemicals. Trying to do it yourself is not recommended as it can lead to significant damage. A salon stylist will have the expertise to guide you through the process.
Bring a Photo: There are many shades of white and silver, so bringing a photo will help your stylist understand your exact vision. This ensures you get the desired result.
Have Realistic Expectations: Achieving true silver hair might require multiple sessions, especially if you have naturally dark hair or have previously dyed your hair. These sessions may be painful due to the bleach's burning sensation on the scalp. Set your schedule accordingly and be prepared for a lengthy process.
Doing It Yourself: Possible but Risky
Consider Carefully: If you're confident and prepared to put in the time and effort, you can attempt to bleach your hair at home. Ensure your hair is short, straight, light, and undamaged, and not too thick or too fine. Always be ready for potential issues.
Get Your Supplies: You'll need powder bleach, developer, a plastic mixing bowl, spatula, rat tail end brush, deep conditioner, gloves, cotton strips, and a friend to assist you.
Mix the Bleach: Follow the instructions on your bleach to mix it properly. Use the correct ratio of developer to bleach for the best results. Mix thoroughly to prevent clumps.
Apply the Bleach: Section off sections of hair with your rat tail end brush and apply the bleach evenly. Avoid applying it too close to the scalp. Allow the bleach to work and check for lightness. Rinse out the bleach and perform a deep conditioning treatment.
Maintaining Your Platinum Blonde Hair
Use Purple Shampoo and Conditioner: These products help maintain your hair's silver tone by counteracting unwanted hues. Use them once or twice a week, but avoid overuse to maintain a naturally vibrant look.
Touch Up with Toner: Regular toning with a pH balancing product will help maintain your hair's color. Use this once every couple of weeks, or as directed by the product instructions. Professionally learning how to apply toner can be helpful.
Baby Your Hair: Bleaching takes a toll on your hair. Use sulfite-free products, minimize washing and heat styling, and apply deep conditioners regularly. Additionally, use liquid coconut oil on your ends once or twice a month for extra care and protection.