Bleaching Level 6 Hair to Level 9: Safe Steps for At-Home Lightening Without Damage [Updated: April 2025]

To bleach level 6 hair to level 9, mix 1 part bleach with 2 parts 30-volume developer. Section hair into quadrants for even application. Saturate each section thoroughly. After bleaching, use a toner to achieve desired pigment. Follow stylist advice for the best results and a balanced finish.

Begin with a patch test to ensure your scalp can handle the bleach. Prepare your hair by washing it 24 to 48 hours prior. Avoid washing it immediately before bleaching; this helps retain natural oils that protect your scalp.

Mix the bleach and developer according to the package instructions. Section your hair to ensure even application. Apply the bleach starting from the tips and moving upward. This approach allows the ends to lighten more, as they typically need more time.

Monitor the process closely and check every 10 minutes. Once you reach the desired level, rinse and use a deep conditioner to restore moisture.

Following these steps ensures a safer and more enjoyable at-home lightening experience. Next, we will discuss the importance of maintaining your new color and how to care for your hair post-bleaching to retain shine and health.

Table of Contents

What Is Level 6 Hair and How Does It Compare to Level 9?

Level 6 hair is characterized as a dark blonde to light brown shade on the hair color level scale, while Level 9 hair is classified as a light blonde. The level scale ranges from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde), representing natural or colored hair lightness.

The hair color level system is acknowledged by the American Board of Certified Haircolorists. They outline this system in their professional guidelines, highlighting how each level corresponds to specific shades.

Level 6 hair typically contains more warmth and depth than Level 9. It often features underlying red or golden tones, while Level 9 is cooler and has less pigmentation, making it more susceptible to toning challenges. Hair at these levels is assessed based on the amount of natural pigment present.

According to the International Colorist Academy, hair color levels reflect the concentration of eumelanin (dark pigment) and pheomelanin (light pigment). At Level 6, the eumelanin content is higher, while Level 9 has a lower concentration, resulting in lighter hues.

Several factors can contribute to the transition between these levels, including the method of bleaching, the condition of the hair, and the previous color treatments. Considerations such as hair porosity and damage level are also crucial.

Statistics from the Professional Beauty Association indicate that 80% of women in the U.S. experiment with their hair color. The demand for lighter shades, such as Level 9, is projected to rise, indicating a continuing trend toward lightening hair.

The lighter hair trend influences consumer choices, salon services, and product development in the beauty industry. Increased demand for hair dyes and treatments can lead to economic changes within salons and beauty retailers.

Health impacts include potential damage to hair integrity from frequent bleaching, which can lead to hair loss or scalp irritation. Increased use of chemicals may also raise environmental concerns for safe disposal practices.

Examples of product innovations, such as ammonia-free bleaching agents and bonding treatments, attempt to minimize hair damage. These products help preserve hair health while achieving desired color results.

To ensure safe transitions between hair color levels, professional guidance is recommended. The American Academy of Dermatology advises consulting a licensed colorist for personalized assessments and treatments.

Utilizing techniques such as deep conditioning, bond builders, and regular trims can mitigate damage during the lightening process. Employing proper hair care routines aids in maintaining hair health while achieving desired aesthetics.

What Risks Should You Consider When Bleaching Level 6 Hair?

When bleaching Level 6 hair, several risks must be considered, including potential damage to hair structure, uneven color results, skin irritation, and the need for aftercare.

Hair Damage
Uneven Color
Skin Irritation
Aftercare Requirements

Considering these risks helps to ensure a safer bleaching process, but it is equally important to understand each risk in detail.

Hair Damage: Bleaching, particularly from Level 6 to Level 9, can lead to significant hair damage. The bleaching process lifts the hair cuticle, which can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology in 2020, hair can lose up to 50% of its protein content during bleaching. Proper pre-bleach conditioning can mitigate some of this damage.
Uneven Color: Achieving a consistent blonde may be challenging with Level 6 hair. Hair texture, porosity, and previous color treatments can result in an uneven outcome. Different sections of hair may lift at different rates, creating patches of varying shades. A survey by a popular hairstyling magazine in 2021 revealed that nearly 30% of individuals experienced uneven lightening when bleaching at home.
Skin Irritation: Chemicals in bleach can irritate the scalp and skin. This risk increases if the bleach is improperly mixed or left on for too long. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology highlights that allergic reactions to hair dye and bleaching agents can occur, leading to redness and itching. Conducting a patch test is recommended to assess sensitivity.
Aftercare Requirements: Proper aftercare is crucial for maintaining the health of bleached hair. After bleaching, hair may require special shampoos, conditioners, and treatments to restore moisture and strength. The International Journal of Trichology suggests that incorporating hydrating masks and avoiding heat styling for at least a few weeks post-bleach can greatly improve hair condition.

In summary, understanding the risks associated with bleaching Level 6 hair enables individuals to make informed decisions about their hair care routines.

What Supplies Are Essential for Safely Bleaching Level 6 Hair to Level 9?

To safely bleach level 6 hair to level 9, essential supplies include high-quality bleach, developer, protective barriers, and hair care products.

High-quality bleach
Developer (preferably 20 or 30 volume)
Gloves
Mixing bowl and brush
Plastic wrap or cap
pH neutralizing shampoo
Deep conditioning treatment

Understanding the necessary supplies can help you achieve the best results while minimizing damage. Below, each item is examined for its importance and effectiveness.

High-quality bleach: High-quality bleach is crucial for safely lifting hair color. This product contains ingredients designed to lighten hair while maintaining its integrity. For instance, brands like Wella or Olaplex offer formulas that aim to reduce breakage during the bleaching process.
Developer (preferably 20 or 30 volume): Developer activates the bleaching process. A 20-volume developer is typically suitable for gradual lifting, while 30-volume can provide more significant lightening in one session. According to a study by Hair Science Institute in 2021, using the correct developer volume can significantly affect the bleaching outcome and overall hair health.
Gloves: Gloves protect your skin from irritation and damage caused by bleach. They are essential for safety, as bleach can cause chemical burns on sensitive skin. Studies show that prolonged exposure to bleach without gloves increases the risk of skin irritation.
Mixing bowl and brush: A mixing bowl ensures even mixing of bleach and developer. A brush provides precise application, helping to achieve uniformity and reduce patchiness. Proper tools can enhance the bleaching experience and outcome, as confirmed in surveys by hair professionals in 2022.
Plastic wrap or cap: A plastic wrap or cap retains heat during the bleaching process, which can accelerate the lift. This technique is particularly effective for thick hair, as suggested in reports by hairstylists in the American Salon Review.
pH neutralizing shampoo: A pH neutralizing shampoo helps restore the hair’s natural pH after bleaching. This product is vital because it can mitigate damage by closing the hair cuticle, reducing moisture loss. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2020 indicates that maintaining pH balance post-bleach contributes to healthier hair.
Deep conditioning treatment: Introducing a deep conditioning treatment post-process restores moisture and protein to damaged hair. It is essential because bleaching can significantly deplete hair’s natural oils. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that regular deep conditioning can help restore the hair’s vitality over time.

Using these essential supplies can facilitate a safer and more successful transition from level 6 to level 9 hair while prioritizing hair health.

What Step-by-Step Process Should You Follow to Achieve Level 9 from Level 6?

To achieve Level 9 hair color from Level 6, follow this step-by-step process:

Gather necessary supplies.
Conduct a strand test.
Prepare a suitable lightening mixture.
Apply the lightener evenly.
Monitor processing time.
Rinse and tone if necessary.
Condition and treat your hair.

Transitioning to the next part of this process, it is essential to delve into the details of each step for effective and safe hair lightening.

Gather Necessary Supplies: Gathering necessary supplies means assembling all tools and products required for the lightening process. These include hair bleach, developer, an applicator brush, gloves, a bowl for mixing, and a measuring cup. High-quality products can significantly affect the outcome.
Conduct a Strand Test: Conducting a strand test involves applying the lightener to a small, hidden section of hair. This step helps you assess the hair’s reaction to the bleach and the final color result. It also indicates hair’s strength and whether it can withstand the lightening process without damage.
Prepare a Suitable Lightening Mixture: Preparing a suitable lightening mixture means combining bleach powder with the appropriate developer volume. A 20-volume developer is commonly used to lift hair color by two levels, while 30-volume may be necessary for greater lifts. Following manufacturer’s instructions is crucial.
Apply the Lightener Evenly: Applying the lightener evenly requires sectioning the hair into manageable parts for consistent coverage. Use the applicator brush to coat each section thoroughly, starting at the tips and moving up to the roots. Avoid overlapping previously bleached hair to prevent damage.
Monitor Processing Time: Monitoring processing time means checking the hair periodically while the bleach is developing. Usually, the process takes 30 to 45 minutes, but this can vary based on the hair type and desired level of lift.
Rinse and Tone if Necessary: Rinsing and toning is essential after the lightening process. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to remove the bleach and follow up with a color toner to neutralize any unwanted brassy tones.
Condition and Treat Your Hair: Conditioning and treating your hair focuses on restoring moisture and repairing any damage caused by the bleaching process. Deep conditioning treatments and leave-in conditioners can help rejuvenate and protect hair health.

Following these detailed steps can help you achieve Level 9 hair color safely and effectively. Make sure to prioritize hair health during the process.

What Aftercare Practices Are Necessary to Maintain Level 9 Color After Bleaching?

Maintaining level 9 color after bleaching requires specific aftercare practices. The right products and routines help preserve the vibrancy and integrity of your hair.

Key aftercare practices for level 9 color maintenance include:
1. Using sulfate-free shampoo
2. Conditioning regularly with deep conditioners
3. Applying leave-in conditioners
4. Utilizing toners to eliminate brassiness
5. Minimizing heat styling
6. Scheduling regular trims
7. Protecting hair from sun exposure
8. Avoiding chlorine exposure in pools

The importance of these practices varies among individuals, and some may prioritize certain routines over others based on personal preferences or hair characteristics.

Using sulfate-free shampoo:
Using a sulfate-free shampoo is essential after bleaching to maintain level 9 color. Sulfates are harsh surfactants that can strip color and moisture from hair. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2015), sulfate-free shampoos effectively cleanse hair while preserving color. For example, brands like Pureology and Kevin Murphy offer sulfate-free options known to be gentler on colored hair.
Conditioning regularly with deep conditioners:
Conditioning regularly with deep conditioners helps maintain moisture and repair damage. Deep conditioners penetrate the hair shaft better than regular conditioners. They provide essential nutrients that restore strength after the bleaching process. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hydrating treatments enhance the longevity of the hair color and improve texture.
Applying leave-in conditioners:
Applying leave-in conditioners offers additional moisture and protection throughout the day. These products can help detangle hair and prevent breakage. A study by Penna (2017) in the International Journal of Trichology found that leave-in conditioners are effective in improving hair health and reducing damage, especially post-bleaching.
Utilizing toners to eliminate brassiness:
Utilizing toners is crucial to eliminate unwanted brassiness. The right toner can neutralize yellow and orange tones, maintaining the desired cool or neutral tone. A study conducted by Xu et al. (2019) in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology noted that toners help maintain color vibrancy and extend the time between color treatments.
Minimizing heat styling:
Minimizing heat styling reduces additional stress on bleached hair. Heat can exacerbate dryness and lead to further damage. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends lower heat settings or air drying as healthier alternatives. If heat tools are necessary, a heat protectant spray should always be used.
Scheduling regular trims:
Scheduling regular trims helps remove split ends and keeps hair looking healthy. Trimming every 6 to 8 weeks can prevent damage from traveling up the hair shaft. According to a survey conducted by the Professional Beauty Association (2020), clients who regularly trim their hair reported better maintenance of color-treated hair.
Protecting hair from sun exposure:
Protecting hair from sun exposure is vital as UV rays can fade color. Wearing hats or using UV protection sprays can shield hair from sun damage. Research from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2018) highlights the importance of sun protection for maintaining both scalp health and hair color.
Avoiding chlorine exposure in pools:
Avoiding chlorine exposure in pools is necessary to keep the color intact. Chlorine can react with bleach and cause unwanted tones. Rinsing hair before and after swimming can reduce chlorine absorption. A study by Hodges and Ma (2017) in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology emphasizes this practice for color preservation.

These aftercare practices are crucial in maintaining level 9 color after bleaching. By following these guidelines, individuals can enhance the vibrancy and lifespan of their color-treated hair.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Bleaching Level 6 Hair?

To achieve the best results when bleaching level 6 hair, you should avoid certain common mistakes.

Skipping a strand test
Using the wrong developer strength
Overlapping on previously colored hair
Not using a toner afterward
Failing to prepare and protect hair

Taking these precautions is essential for optimal results. Each point holds significance for both the desired outcome and the health of your hair.

Skipping a Strand Test:
Skipping a strand test can lead to unexpected results. A strand test involves applying bleach to a small section of hair to check how it reacts and what final color you achieve. According to hairstylist Jack Howard, performing a strand test can prevent potential disasters by allowing you to assess the bleach’s effectiveness on your specific hair type. This approach can save time and resources while ensuring satisfaction with the color outcome.
Using the Wrong Developer Strength:
Using the wrong developer strength can severely impact the bleaching process. Developers usually come in 10, 20, 30, and 40 volumes, with higher volumes lifting more hair color. However, according to Colorist J. Lopez, using a 40-volume developer on fine or damaged hair can lead to severe breakage. It is vital to match the developer strength with your hair’s condition and the desired level of lift.
Overlapping on Previously Colored Hair:
Overlapping bleach on previously colored hair causes damage and uneven color. When bleach is applied to previously processed ends, the hair can become overly porous and prone to breakage. Stylist Lisa Gatz advises applying bleach only to the roots first, allowing for lighter, even color while preventing the fragile ends from further damage.
Not Using a Toner Afterward:
Not using a toner can leave hair with unwanted brassy tones. Toners neutralize yellow or orange hues resulting from bleaching. Hair colorist Mia Johnson emphasizes that toning is essential for achieving a natural look by balancing the hair’s overall hue, especially after lifting darker hair colors.
Failing to Prepare and Protect Hair:
Failing to prepare and protect hair leads to further damage during the bleaching process. Proper preparation includes deep conditioning hair days before the process to strengthen it. Additionally, using protective products, such as Olaplex, can help mitigate damage. A study by the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology highlights the importance of pre-treatment for reducing oxidative damage, thus ensuring healthier results.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize potential issues when bleaching level 6 hair to achieve the desired outcome while maintaining hair health.

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