Why Did My Hair Turn Orange When I Bleached It? Causes, Tips, and Fixes Explained [Updated: April 2025]

Hair turns orange after bleaching because the process failed to remove darker pigments completely. This can happen due to insufficient bleaching time or color build-up. If you started with dark hair, the underlying red or orange pigments become more visible, resulting in the unwanted orange tone. Adjust your bleaching technique for better results.

Another factor is the bleaching process itself. Inadequate processing time can leave the hair under-bleached. Additionally, using a lower volume developer may not lift the hair color sufficiently. Different hair types react uniquely to bleach, so results can vary widely.

To mitigate this, use products designed for color correction. A purple shampoo can neutralize orange tones by depositing cool pigments. Consider a toner to adjust the overall hue to a more desirable shade. Always perform a strand test before applying bleach extensively. This helps assess how your hair will react.

Understanding why your hair turned orange when you bleached it is crucial. In the next section, we will explore effective ways to restore your hair to its desired color while maintaining its health.

Table of Contents

What Does It Mean When My Hair Turns Orange After Bleaching?

Your hair may turn orange after bleaching due to the underlying pigment’s reaction to the bleaching process. This is a common issue that can arise from various factors during bleaching.

Underlying Pigments
Inadequate Developer Strength
Over-processing
Product Residue
Hair Porosity

Understanding the factors that cause orange hair after bleaching is essential. Each factor contributes uniquely to the color outcome.

Underlying Pigments:
The term ‘underlying pigments’ refers to the natural color molecules present in your hair. When bleaching, the process lifts the natural color while exposing these pigments. If you have darker hair, the yellow and red pigments can become more visible, resulting in an orange hue. For instance, dark brown hair might yield more orange tones when bleached, as these pigments are more dominant. Furthermore, studies suggest that hair with a warm tone before bleaching tends to show more orange after the process, especially if not lifted adequately.
Inadequate Developer Strength:
Inadequate developer strength means using a developer that is not strong enough to lift your natural hair color thoroughly. Developers come in different strengths measured in volumes, typically 10, 20, 30, or 40. A lower volume developer may not adequately lift darker pigments, leading to orange remnants in the hair. For example, using a 20-volume developer may not provide sufficient lightening for medium to dark-brown hair, resulting in an orange tint.
Over-processing:
Over-processing occurs when hair is subjected to bleaching for too long. Extended exposure to bleach can damage hair and disrupt the lifting process, leading to uneven color results. If the hair becomes porous due to this damage, it might absorb the orange tones more dramatically. Research by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2015) highlighted that over-processing can reduce hair’s structural integrity, which affects color retention and appearance.
Product Residue:
Product residue refers to leftover buildup from shampoos, conditioners, or styling products. This residue can interfere with the bleaching process. If your hair has a significant buildup, it may react differently to bleach, leading to unexpected colors. A clarifying shampoo can help remove buildup and produce a more uniform lightening result. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2009) discusses how residues can alter the chemical reactions involved in bleaching.
Hair Porosity:
Hair porosity is the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. High-porosity hair absorbs products and colors easily, which may lead to a quicker, more intense reaction to bleach. If one has high porosity hair, the orange tones could show more prominently after bleaching because those pigments are absorbed rather than lifted adequately. A study from Hair Research Journal (2021) shows that porosity significantly influences how hair reacts to chemical treatments.

Each of these factors plays a critical role in how hair reacts to bleaching and contributes to the final color outcome. Understanding them can help prevent or correct orange tones efficiently.

What Are the Main Causes of Hair Turning Orange After Bleaching?

The main causes of hair turning orange after bleaching are primarily related to the natural pigment and the bleaching process.

Presence of Undertones
Inadequate Bleaching
pH Level of Products
Hair Health and Condition
Incorrect Developer Strength

The above points illustrate the multifaceted reasons for hair turning orange post-bleaching. Understanding these causes can lead to better bleached results.

Presence of Undertones: The presence of undertones in the hair can significantly affect the final color after bleaching. Natural hair contains pigments that can exhibit warm tones, such as red or yellow. When hair is bleached, these warm underlying tones may become more visible, resulting in an orange or brassy appearance. According to hair colorists, darker hair has more of these underlying pigments. For example, someone with dark brown hair may find that their hair turns a vibrant orange after bleaching due to the rich warm tones present.
Inadequate Bleaching: Inadequate bleaching refers to the insufficient lightening of hair during the bleaching process. This situation can occur if the bleach is left on the hair for a shorter time than recommended or if the product used is not strong enough for the hair’s color level. A study by hair care experts suggests that lightening levels need to be achieved gradually to avoid patchiness. For instance, not achieving the proper blonde level can lead to orange tones showing through, particularly on darker hair types.
pH Level of Products: The pH level of bleaching products plays a crucial role in hair lifting. Hair has a natural pH ranging from 4.5 to 5.5. If a bleaching product is too alkaline, it can damage the hair cuticle. This damage can lead to uneven lifting and the exposure of underlying pigments. Research indicates that using pH-balanced products can help minimize brassiness. Consequently, hair that is treated with overly alkaline products may develop an orange tint instead of a cool blonde.
Hair Health and Condition: The health and condition of hair can affect the bleaching results. Damaged hair often absorbs the bleaching product unevenly, resulting in patchy or unintended color outcomes. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science highlights that compromised hair structures can influence how bleach interacts with hair pigments. Healthy hair tends to achieve a more consistent color while unhealthy hair may appear more orange due to uneven lifting.
Incorrect Developer Strength: The strength of the developer used with bleach is another key factor. Developers come in different volumes, each offering different levels of lift. For instance, a 20-volume developer might not be strong enough to lift darker hair adequately, leading to insufficient lightening and brassiness. A professional stylist, such as Traci Sakosits, emphasizes that understanding developer strength is crucial for optimal results. Using the correct developer can help avoid unflattering orange tones after bleaching.

How Do My Hair’s Natural Undertones Influence Bleaching Results?

Your hair’s natural undertones significantly influence the results of bleaching by determining the final color, affecting tone and retaining pigment. The underlying pigments in your hair can impact whether you achieve a warm, neutral, or cool result after bleaching.

Natural Undertones: Hair contains various pigments. The primary ones are eumelanin, which contributes to dark shades, and pheomelanin, which adds warmth. Dark hair tends to have more eumelanin, while lighter hair may contain more pheomelanin. The interaction of these pigments with bleach determines the resulting shade.
Warm Undertones: If your hair has rich warm undertones, such as golden or red hues, bleaching can amplify these colors. For example, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that hair with a high pheomelanin content can yield yellow or orange tones after bleaching (Rogers, 2019). This can lead to unwanted brassiness.
Cool Undertones: Conversely, hair with cooler undertones, such as ash or blue tones, may lighten into a more neutral or cool shade when bleached. Hair that contains predominantly eumelanin tends to produce cooler results. Studies suggest that such undertones can help achieve a more desired blonde, reducing the likelihood of brassiness (Harper, 2020).
Level of Natural Color: The darker your natural hair color, the more pigment it has. This means it will require more bleaching sessions to achieve lighter shades. According to the International Journal of Trichology, hair tends to become significantly warmer with each level lightened due to remaining pigments (Kumar & Yadav, 2021).
Genetic Factors: Individual genetic makeup influences pigment production. For instance, some people naturally produce more pheomelanin, leading to warmer results when bleaching. A study conducted by Smith (2018) illustrated that variations in the MC1R gene affect hair color and its response to bleaching processes.

Understanding your hair’s natural undertones can help inform your bleaching process. It can guide you to choose the proper products and techniques for achieving your desired hair color, reducing the risk of undesirable results.

Why Does Leaving Bleach on My Hair Too Long Cause an Orange Tint?

Your hair turns orange when you leave bleach on for too long due to the underlying pigments remaining in your hair. Bleach works by breaking down hair color pigments, but prolonged exposure can lead to uneven lightening.

The American Academy of Dermatology defines hair bleaching as a chemical process that removes color from the hair by breaking apart the dye molecules. This process involves using hydrogen peroxide, often combined with an alkaline agent, which can lead to unwanted color results if not monitored carefully.

The orange tint occurs because hair contains a spectrum of natural pigments. The two main pigments are eumelanin (which can be brown or black) and pheomelanin (which is yellow or red). When bleach is applied, it removes the darker eumelanin more quickly than the lighter pheomelanin. If the bleaching process is extended, the remaining pheomelanin can dominate, creating an orange or brassy effect in the hair.

Technical terms such as “eumelanin” and “pheomelanin” refer to the specific types of melanin pigments in hair. Eumelanin provides darker tones, while pheomelanin contributes to lighter and warmer hues, like red and yellow.

The bleaching mechanism operates through oxidation. Bleach penetrates the hair shaft and oxidizes the color pigments. However, if the bleach is left on too long, it causes the balance of pigments to shift, revealing the warmer undertones and resulting in an orange hue.

Specific conditions include over-application due to hair type, heat from styling tools, and individual pigment density. For instance, individuals with naturally dark or medium brown hair often experience more dramatic color shifts towards orange when over-bleached. Scenarios such as applying bleach in excessive layers or not regularly checking the development time can exacerbate the problem, leading to unwanted coloration.

How Can I Prevent My Hair from Turning Orange During Bleaching?

You can prevent your hair from turning orange during bleaching by using a high-quality toner, selecting the right bleach, and following proper bleaching techniques.

Here are detailed explanations for each key point:

High-quality toner: Toners neutralize unwanted warm tones. A purple or blue toner can counteract orange hues. Purple works well against yellow tones, while blue is effective against orange. Many professional hairstylists recommend using these toners after the bleaching process to achieve the desired color. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2021) highlighted the efficacy of these color-correcting agents.
Selecting the right bleach: The type of bleach you use matters. Choose a bleach with a low ammonia content. Ammonia can lift color too aggressively, resulting in warmth. Look for products labeled as “blue bleach” for extra neutralizing power against orange undertones. According to research by Hair Biology (Jones, 2020), lower ammonia formulas cause less damage and allow for a more controlled lightening process.
Proper bleaching techniques: Apply bleach strategically for even results. Section your hair and ensure the product is evenly distributed. Perform a strand test to assess how your hair responds to the bleach. This helps predict the final color and prevent unwanted orange tones. Following a structured approach reduces the risk of overheating, which can lead to uneven results.

By using these methods, you can effectively manage warm tones and achieve the cooler blondes or highlighted looks you desire.

What Are the Best Preparatory Steps for Bleaching My Hair?

The best preparatory steps for bleaching your hair include assessing your hair’s health, choosing the right products, and scheduling a strand test.

Assess your hair’s health
Choose the right bleaching product
Perform a strand test
Gather necessary tools
Schedule a professional consultation

Before diving deeper, it’s important to recognize that everyone’s hair is unique, and these steps can vary based on individual hair types and conditions.

Assess Your Hair’s Health:
Assessing your hair’s health involves examining its current state. Healthy hair can typically withstand bleaching better than damaged hair. Signs of damage include split ends, excessive dryness, and breakage. According to Cosmetic Chemist Ni’kita Wilson, healthy hair has good elasticity and shine, which are crucial for processing. If your hair shows significant signs of damage, consider improving its health through conditioning treatments and reducing heat styling for a few weeks prior to bleaching.
Choose the Right Bleaching Product:
Choosing the right bleaching product refers to selecting a formula suitable for your hair type and the desired level of lift. Developers come in different volumes (10, 20, 30, and 40), affecting how light the hair will become. A study by the International Journal of Dermatology (2021) supports that using a 20-volume developer is safest for first-time bleachers. Higher volumes may lead to more damage, so start conservatively if you’re unsure.
Perform a Strand Test:
Performing a strand test means applying bleach to a small section of hair before full application. This test checks how your hair reacts to the bleach. It also helps in determining the exact processing time needed for your hair. The results can indicate whether you may face unexpected color changes or damage, allowing you to adjust your approach. Hairstylist Sarah Miller emphasizes that this step is crucial to avoid disastrous outcomes.
Gather Necessary Tools:
Gathering necessary tools means preparing all items required for the bleaching process, including gloves, a mixing bowl, a brush, and a timer. Having everything ready streamlines the process and limits exposure to damaging bleach. Moreover, separating your hair into manageable sections also enhances more controlled and uniform application.
Schedule a Professional Consultation:
Scheduling a professional consultation means booking an appointment with a hairstylist who specializes in color treatments. Professional insight helps tailor the process to your specific hair type and condition. According to an article published in Haircolor Technology, a consultation ensures a safer experience and better outcome, as stylists provide personalized recommendations and treatments.

By understanding and following these preparatory steps, you set the stage for a safer and more effective bleaching process.

How Do I Choose the Right Bleach for My Hair Type?

Choosing the right bleach for your hair type requires understanding your hair’s texture, condition, and desired outcome. Different hair types react uniquely to bleach, so it’s essential to consider these factors before making a selection.

Hair Texture: Fine hair tends to lighten more easily than coarse hair. According to a study by Johnson & Chen (2020), fine hair can reach a lighter blonde in fewer processing steps. Coarse hair requires a more potent bleach to achieve similar results.
Hair Condition: Healthy hair bleaches more evenly than damaged hair. A survey published by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2021) found that damaged hair experiences more uneven lightening and potential breakage. Assess your hair’s health before deciding on bleach strength.
Desired Level of Lift: The amount of lift needed determines the strength of bleach to use. Bleaches come in various volumes (10, 20, 30, 40). According to hair color experts, 20 volume developers typically provide 1-2 levels of lift, while 30 volume allows for 2-3 levels of lift, and 40 volume provides the highest lift, up to four levels.
Undertone Consideration: Some hair colors have underlying pigments. A study featured in the International Journal of Trichology (Foster, 2019) indicates that blonde hair often has warm, brassy undertones. Choosing a bleach designed to counteract these tones can improve results.
Patch Test: A patch test ensures that there’s no adverse reaction to the bleach. This recommendation comes from safety standards set by the American Academy of Dermatology. Conduct a test on a small section of hair to gauge how your hair reacts to the bleach.

By understanding these key factors, you can make an informed decision on the right bleach for your specific hair type and achieve the best results possible.

What Are the Most Effective Remedies for Fixing Orange Hair?

The most effective remedies for fixing orange hair after bleaching include using purple shampoos, applying color-correcting hair dyes, and consulting a professional hair colorist.

Purple Shampoos
Color-Correcting Hair Dyes
Toners
Professional Hair Treatments
DIY Natural Remedies

Transitioning from these options, it is important to understand each remedy in detail to choose the most suitable one for your hair type and condition.

Purple Shampoos: Purple shampoos neutralize yellow and orange tones in the hair. They contain purple pigments that counteract brassy colors. Regular use can help maintain a more balanced blonde or light color. Brands like Fanola and Matrix have received positive reviews for their effectiveness in tone correction.
Color-Correcting Hair Dyes: Color-correcting dyes can be helpful for those looking to directly combat orange tones. Shades like ash blonde or silver can effectively cover unwanted warmth. Brands such as Wella and L’Oreal offer a range of color-correcting options designed for this purpose.
Toners: Toners are another effective method to correct orange hair. They contain pigments that can shift overall hair color. Applying a toner at the salon can yield professional results, with some toners working at home as well. A popular choice is the Wella Color Charm Liquid Toner, which allows users to achieve cooler tones.
Professional Hair Treatments: Consulting a professional colorist can often yield the best results. Professional treatments may include balayage, highlights, or custom color blends. A colorist can assess your hair’s condition and recommend tailored solutions for fixing orange tones.
DIY Natural Remedies: Some people opt for natural remedies like vinegar or lemon juice, which may help to lighten and clarify hair. While these methods are less predictable, they can be gentle alternatives for those who prefer at-home solutions. However, results can vary significantly and may not provide a complete fix.

How Can I Use Toning Treatments to Neutralize Orange Hair?

To neutralize orange hair using toning treatments, select the appropriate toner, apply it correctly, and follow up with maintenance products.

Select the appropriate toner: Choose a toner specifically designed to counteract orange tones. Look for toners that contain blue or purple pigments. Blue tones neutralize orange hues, while purple tones work well for yellow hues. Brands like Wella and Redken offer effective options.
Apply the toner correctly: Follow these steps for application:
– Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup.
– Towel dry your hair, leaving it damp but not dripping.
– Apply the toner evenly throughout your hair using a tint brush. Ensure all sections are covered, especially the areas with the most orange.
– Leave the toner on for the recommended time, usually around 10 to 30 minutes. Check the color every few minutes to avoid over-toning.
Rinse and follow up: After the desired color is achieved, rinse your hair with cool water to lock in the tone. Follow up with a sulfate-free conditioner to maintain moisture and color vibrancy.
Maintain with color-safe products: Use shampoos and conditioners formulated for color-treated hair. Look for options containing violet or blue pigments for added toning. Regular use helps sustain the desired tone and reduces orange re-emergence.
Schedule regular toning treatments: Toning may need to be repeated every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly your hair fades. Regular treatments will help keep orange tones at bay and enhance overall hair color.

By following these steps, you can effectively use toning treatments to neutralize orange hair and achieve a more balanced, cooler hue.

What Common Misconceptions Exist About Bleaching Hair and Orange Tones?

Common misconceptions about bleaching hair often relate to the cause and permanence of orange tones. Many believe that all bleach will inevitably turn hair orange or that the orange tone cannot be corrected.

Bleaching always results in orange tones.
Orange tones are permanent and cannot be fixed.
All hair types react the same to bleach.
Using conditioner can fully mitigate orange tones.
Higher volumes of bleach prevent orange tones.

Understanding these misconceptions is crucial to achieve desired hair color results.

Bleaching Always Results in Orange Tones: This misconception implies that any attempt to lighten hair will lead to unwanted orange chroma. In reality, the outcome largely depends on the hair’s existing color and underlying pigments. Darker hair often has more red and orange undertones, which can become evident after bleaching. Subtle variations in hair textures and previous chemical treatments also influence the final shade achieved during the bleaching process.
Orange Tones are Permanent and Cannot Be Fixed: Many believe that once hair turns orange from bleaching, there is no remedy. However, various methods can neutralize or tone down orange hues. Professional hair toners, purple shampoos, and color-correcting techniques can help balance unwanted warm tones. A study from the International Journal of Trichology (2015) emphasizes that using a blue or violet toner can effectively neutralize orange tones for a cooler result.
All Hair Types React the Same to Bleach: This viewpoint overlooks the unique properties of different hair types. Caucasian, Asian, and African hair types have varied structures and pigment compositions. For example, African hair typically has more resistant coarseness, making it less prone to lightening but more susceptible to damage if not treated cautiously during the bleaching process. Understanding these differences is essential for achieving optimal results.
Using Conditioner Can Fully Mitigate Orange Tones: While conditioners help maintain hair health and moisture post-bleaching, they cannot directly eliminate orange tones. Conditioners do not possess color-neutralizing properties. Instead, they support the hair’s overall integrity. The American Academy of Dermatology highlights that post-bleaching treatments such as deep conditioning and moisturizing masks can help maintain hair’s shine and reduce damage but do not alter existing color tones.
Higher Volumes of Bleach Prevent Orange Tones: The idea that using higher volumes of bleach guarantees avoidance of orange undertones is misleading. While higher peroxide volumes can lighten hair faster, they also increase the risk of damage and can lead to poor results if not monitored closely. A 2020 article in the Journal of Cosmetic Science details how experienced colorists recommend using the appropriate volume based on hair type, starting with lower volumes and adjusting as needed to minimize color mishaps.

Understanding these misconceptions can guide better choices in hair bleaching processes and ensure more satisfying outcomes. Educating oneself about proper techniques and available products can significantly minimize the risk of unwanted color results.

Related Post: