When hair is bleached, chemicals are used to open the hair cuticle, which allows the bleach to break down the natural pigment. As the pigment fades, the hair becomes lighter, often resulting in a bleached blonde colour. However, opening the cuticle also causes the cortex, the inner part of the hair, to lose moisture, making the hair porous. Porous hair struggles to retain moisture, which is why bleached hair often feels dry and brittle.
To check your hair’s moisture levels, take a small section between your fingers. If it feels rough, it likely needs moisture. Healthy, hydrated hair feels smooth and silky.
If your hair feels dry, here are some ways to restore its health:
- Deep Condition: Bleaching strips moisture from the cortex. Regular deep conditioning treatments help replenish this lost moisture and smooth the cuticle.
- Limit Heat Exposure: Heat from the sun or styling tools can further dry out bleached hair. Reducing heat, using styling products that add moisture, and lowering the temperature of styling tools will help maintain hair’s health.
- Get Regular Trims: Regular trims prevent split ends from worsening and protect the hair shaft from further damage.
- Avoid Over-Styling: Over-drying or touching your hair excessively can lead to more damage. Turn off your hairdryer when your hair is dry, and avoid unnecessary handling.
- Handle Hair Gently: Wet hair is particularly vulnerable. Use a microfiber towel and avoid rough drying to prevent breakage.
- Steer Clear of Silicones: While silicones can make hair appear shiny, they coat the hair, blocking moisture absorption, which can be harmful in the long term, especially for bleached hair.
- Nourish Your Hair: Choose nourishing products that deeply hydrate and restore shine. Look for ingredients like pro-vitamin B5, glycerin, and avocado oil, which can help maintain healthy, bleached hair.
Regular care and proper moisture balance are key to keeping bleached hair looking soft, smooth, and shiny.
