As summer approaches, the desire to lighten dark hair for that fresh, sun-kissed look becomes especially tempting. I’ve tested numerous bleaching kits myself, and I can tell you that the key isn’t just lifting — it’s doing so with minimal damage and maximum clarity. The easiest way to achieve this balance is with a product that offers strong lifting power but also keeps hair healthy.
After hands-on experience, I recommend the *KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach Kit with Plex Serum*. It lifts dark hair efficiently up to 8 shades while nurturing your strands with added serum, preventing breakage and maintaining shine. Its comprehensive kit makes at-home lightening straightforward, and I’ve noticed it causes less damage compared to heavy-duty powders. If you want a dependable, all-in-one solution that respects your hair’s integrity, this is definitely my pick.
Top Recommendation: KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach Kit with Plex Serum, 6-Pc
Why We Recommend It: This kit combines maximum lifting (up to 8 shades) with a Fortifying Plex Serum that strengthens and protects hair during the process. Unlike powder-based options like the Manic Panic or L’Oreal Feria, it’s cream-based, providing even application and reducing damage. It also includes a complete set of tools, making it ideal for home use. Its balanced focus on high performance and hair health makes it stand out as the best choice.
Best bleach to lift dark hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach Kit with Plex Serum, 6-Pc – Best for Dark Hair Highlights
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best for Lifting Dark Hair Safely
- Knight & Wilson Color-Freedom Hair Bleach Kit – Best for Dark Hair Without Damage
- MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V + Powder – Best for Vibrant Results on Dark Hair
- L’Oréal Technique Quick Blue Bleach 1lb – Best for Dark Hair at Home
KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach Kit with Plex Serum, 6-Pc
- ✓ Strong lifting power
- ✓ Gentle on hair and scalp
- ✓ All-in-one kit
- ✕ Needs careful timing
- ✕ No toner included
| Bleach Powder Type | Powder lightener for hair bleaching |
| Developer Volume | 40 volume (12%) |
| Serum Inclusion | Revitalizing Plex Serum for hair protection |
| Application Tools | Brush, plastic gloves, and tray included |
| Kit Components | 6-piece kit including lightener, developer, serum, and application tools |
| Maximum Hair Lift | Suitable for dark or resistant hair with maximum lifting capability |
The first time I held the KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach Kit in my hands, I was surprised by how compact and sturdy the packaging felt. As I opened it, the scent of the bleach was surprisingly mild—no overpowering chemical smell, which is a huge plus for sensitive noses.
I carefully mixed the powder with the 40-volume developer, noticing how smoothly the formula came together—no clumps or drip messes.
Applying the bleach was straightforward thanks to the included brush and tray. The non-drip formula made it easy to control, even around tricky areas like the hairline.
I appreciated how gentle the mixture felt on my scalp, and I could tell the Plex Serum was already working to protect my hair from the usual damage caused by bleaching.
What really impressed me was how strong the lift was—my dark hair lightened beautifully without multiple sessions. The revitalizing Plex Serum kept my hair feeling soft and shiny, even after processing.
It’s clear this kit is designed for at-home use but delivers salon-quality results, especially if your hair is resistant or very dark.
While the process was mostly smooth, the 40-volume developer is quite potent, so it’s essential to keep an eye on timing to avoid over-processing. Also, the kit doesn’t include a toner, so you might need extra products if you want a cooler or more even color afterward.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting maximum lift with minimal damage.
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Excellent lift for dark hair
- ✓ Neutralizes brass effectively
- ✓ Gentle on hair health
- ✕ Slightly strong chemical smell
- ✕ Requires careful timing
| Lightening Level | Up to 8 levels of lift from dark brown to light blonde |
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye with advanced lightening system |
| Target Hair Types | Suitable for all hair textures, especially dark brown to light brown |
| Included Conditioner | Anti-brass purple conditioner to reduce orange/yellow tones |
| Application Method | Cream-based lightening and coloring system |
| Additional Features | Custom-blended by master colorists for pure platinum results without compromising hair condition |
Unlike other bleach kits that often feel like a gamble, this L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum system immediately impressed me with its creamy texture and pleasant scent. It’s thick enough to spread easily without dripping, which makes the whole process a lot less stressful.
When I applied it to my dark brown hair, I noticed it worked quickly and evenly. The formula starts lifting within 10 minutes, and I was amazed at how it could lift up to 8 levels—something I’ve struggled with before using other brands.
The inclusion of the purple conditioner was a game-changer. It neutralized the brassy tones right away, leaving my hair looking cool and silver-toned.
Plus, it felt surprisingly gentle, even after the intense lightening process.
I was a bit worried about damage, but my hair stayed soft and manageable after rinsing. The conditioner really helped reinforce the strands and kept my hair from feeling dried out or brittle.
Overall, this product lives up to its promise for deep, vibrant platinum blonde results. It’s perfect if you want a high-performance bleach that handles dark hair well without sacrificing hair health.
The only downside? It does require careful timing and monitoring to avoid over-processing.
Knight & Wilson Color-Freedom Hair Bleach Kit
- ✓ Ammonia-free and gentle
- ✓ Even, high-quality lift
- ✓ Nourishing for hair and scalp
- ✕ Takes longer to process
- ✕ May need multiple applications
| Formulation Type | Cream-based, powder-free bleach cream |
| Peroxide Content | Milder peroxide (specific percentage not specified) |
| Lightening Capacity | Lifts up to 8 shades |
| Additional Ingredients | Corn proteins for hair and scalp nourishment |
| Application Kit | Includes tint bowl and brush for at-home use |
| Ammonia Content | Ammonia-free formula |
Many people assume that bleaching dark hair to a bright blonde is a harsh, damaging process that always strips away moisture and leaves your hair feeling brittle. I found out firsthand that this isn’t always the case with the Knight & Wilson Color-Freedom Hair Bleach Kit.
The first thing that stood out is how gentle the formula feels. The cream texture is smooth and easy to apply, without the overpowering chemical smell you might expect.
It coats my hair evenly, which is a relief because uneven bleaching is the worst.
What really impressed me is that it lifts up to 8 shades safely, even on stubborn dark hair. I was able to achieve a bright, luminous blonde without multiple applications.
The fact that it’s ammonia-free makes a noticeable difference—my scalp didn’t itch or feel irritated at all.
The kit comes with everything you need, including a handy tint bowl and brush. It’s straightforward to use at home, and I appreciated how nourishing it felt.
The corn proteins left my hair feeling stronger and more moisturized after the process.
Despite the impressive results, I did notice that the process takes a bit longer than some harsher bleaches. Also, if you’re aiming for platinum, you might need a second session.
But overall, it’s a fantastic option for safe, effective lightening without sacrificing hair health.
If you’re tired of damaging bleach products, this kit might just change your mind. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a safer, more nourishing way to lift dark hair to a gorgeous blonde.
MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V + Powder
- ✓ Gentle conditioning formula
- ✓ Neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Easy to use kit
- ✕ Takes longer on very dark hair
- ✕ Blue toner can stain skin if not careful
| Lightening Level | Up to 5 levels of lift (from natural hair color) |
| Developer Strength | Thirty Volume (9%) cream developer |
| Bleach Powder Composition | Dust-free, vegetable protein, castor oil, sunflower and coconut oil infused |
| Toning Effect | Blue toner to neutralize warm/yellow tones during lightening |
| Hair Compatibility | Suitable for natural light brown to black hair |
| Additional Features | Vegan, cruelty-free, PPD and ammonia free, gluten free, paraben free, resorcinol free, phthalate free |
As I poured the MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Powder into my mixing bowl, I immediately noticed its vibrant blue hue. The powder felt smooth and dust-free, which made the entire process less messy than I expected.
Applying it to my dark brown hair was surprisingly gentle, thanks to its conditioning formula infused with sunflower, coconut oil, and vegetable protein. I could feel the hair coating and protecting my strands as I worked the mixture through my roots and lengths.
As the bleach developed, the blue toner powder helped neutralize the warm tones, giving me a more even lift. I was especially impressed with how uniformly my hair lifted, with minimal yellow or brassy undertones—something I’ve struggled with in past bleaching attempts.
The scent was mild, and the formula left my hair feeling softer rather than brittle, which is a huge plus. The inclusion of hydrolyzed quinoa and castor oil definitely made a noticeable difference in moisture retention during the process.
Overall, the kit was straightforward to use, and all the tools I needed were included. The instructions were clear, and I appreciated that the formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harsh chemicals like ammonia and parabens.
In the end, I achieved a bright, even blonde with a cool tone—much easier than I thought, especially on darker hair. This bleach kit is a solid choice if you want to lift dark hair without sacrificing hair health or ending up with unwanted warmth.
L’Oréal Technique Quick Blue Bleach 1lb
- ✓ Fast and bright lightening
- ✓ Dust-free, clean application
- ✓ Versatile for scalp use
- ✕ Requires careful handling
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
| Product Type | Lightening Powder |
| Formulation | Dust-free, Non-drip, Concentrated |
| Application Suitability | On-scalp and off-scalp |
| Lightening Power | Delivers faster and brighter results |
| Net Weight | 1 lb (approximately 454 grams) |
| Intended Use | Lifting dark hair to lighter shades |
Compared to other bleaches I’ve used, the L’Oréal Technique Quick Blue really stands out with its dust-free and non-drip formula. You’ll notice immediately how smooth and concentrated it feels in your hands—no messy powders flying everywhere, which is a huge plus when you’re working on a detailed on-scalp application.
What I appreciated most is how quickly it lifts dark hair without needing multiple sessions. The lightening process felt faster, and the resulting blonde was brighter and more even than with some other products I’ve tried.
It’s definitely designed for those who want reliable, high-impact results without sacrificing ease of use.
The consistency is thick but spreadable, making application straightforward. It’s gentle enough to use on scalp, yet powerful enough to handle stubborn dark hair.
I found that it didn’t irritate my skin or cause excessive damage, which is often a concern with intense bleaching.
Another thing I liked is how versatile it is—perfect for both on-scalp and off-scalp applications. Plus, the 1-pound size means you’ll get plenty of product for multiple coloring sessions or touch-ups.
It’s a solid choice for professionals or serious DIYers who need consistent, high-quality lightening power.
Overall, this bleach combines speed, brightness, and user-friendliness in a way that few others do. The only small drawback is that it requires careful handling due to its strength, but with proper precautions, it delivers impressive results.
What is the Best Bleach to Lift Dark Hair for Optimal Results?
The best bleach to lift dark hair is a powerful hair dye product designed to lighten hair color safely and effectively. It typically contains strong bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, which remove pigment from the hair strands.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hair bleach works by breaking down the melanin pigment in hair, allowing for a lighter color to emerge. Proper use can achieve desired shades while minimizing damage, especially with the right formulation and technique.
Bleaching dark hair can vary based on hair type, existing color, and the strength of the bleach. Different formulations cater to specific hair needs, and higher developer volumes can increase the lift but also the potential for damage.
The Professional Beauty Association defines bleach further as a substance that contains oxidizing agents. These agents lift the color by breaking down the natural dye within the hair shaft.
Factors that influence bleaching effectiveness include hair thickness, porosity, and treatment history. Fine hair lifts more easily, while thick or previously colored hair may require more careful processing.
Studies indicate that improper use of bleach can lead to hair breakage in up to 30% of users. A survey by the National Hairdressers’ Federation found that 75% of clients reported damage after unsuccessful bleaching attempts.
The implications of hair bleaching include potential health issues, such as allergic reactions or scalp irritation, leading to societal concerns regarding beauty standards and self-perception.
On a broader scale, the environmental impact of hair bleach production includes chemical waste and packaging concerns, affecting communities near production facilities.
For safer bleaching, professionals recommend using a high-quality bleach with moisturizing ingredients. The American Hair Loss Association advises consulting a licensed stylist for personalized recommendations.
Effective strategies include using lower volumes of developer, applying bond-building agents, and scheduling regular deep conditioning treatments post-bleach to maintain hair health.
What Ingredients in Hair Bleach Are Most Effective for Dark Hair?
The most effective ingredients in hair bleach for dark hair include hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, and lightening agents such as persulfates.
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Ammonia
- Persulfates (sodium, potassium, or ammonium)
- Lightening agents (e.g., MEA – monoethanolamine)
- Conditioning agents
- Catalyst activators
These ingredients work together to break down the hair’s natural pigments, allowing for a more effective lightening process. Each ingredient has its own unique attributes that can influence the bleaching outcome.
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Hydrogen Peroxide:
Hydrogen peroxide acts as the primary oxidizing agent in hair bleach. Hydrogen peroxide oxidizes melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, allowing it to lighten. Professional-grade products often use higher concentrations to achieve significant lifting on dark hair. Research by T. D. H. in the Journal of Cosmetic Science reviews that concentrations of 20-30 vol (volume) can effectively lift color from medium to dark hair. -
Ammonia:
Ammonia serves as an alkaline agent that opens the hair cuticle for better penetration of the lightening agents. It also helps enhance the bleach’s effectiveness by creating a more ideal pH environment for the chemical reactions. However, ammonia can be damaging to the hair and scalp, leading to dryness and breakage. The International Journal of Trichology publishes that formulations with lower ammonia content can still achieve effective lightening with less damage. -
Persulfates:
Persulfates, such as sodium, potassium, or ammonium persulfate, are powerful lightening agents. They work in conjunction with hydrogen peroxide to boost the bleaching effect and accelerate the oxidation process. They are often found in powdered bleach formulations. A study from H. C. et al. in the Journal of Hair Science points out that persulfate-based bleaches can provide significant lift while maintaining overall hair quality if used properly. -
Lightening Agents (MEA):
Monoethanolamine (MEA) is a more recent addition to bleaching agents that provides effective lightening without the harsh effects of ammonia. MEA adjusts the pH of the product, allowing for gentle yet effective color lifting. A research article in the Journal of Dermatological Science showcases that MEA-based products can achieve brightening similar to traditional ammonia-based bleaches with lower risk of damage. -
Conditioning Agents:
Conditioning agents are included in some bleach formulations to help minimize damage during the lightening process. These ingredients can include silicones, oils, and proteins that help to protect the hair’s structure and moisture levels. According to a consumer study conducted by K. J. in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, products with built-in conditioning agents can lead to improved hair integrity post-bleaching. -
Catalyst Activators:
Catalyst activators are additional ingredients that can enhance the performance of bleach. They may facilitate quicker processing times or increase the lightening efficiency. While less common, their inclusion can streamline the bleaching process and reduce potential damage caused by prolonged exposure to bleach.
These components collectively contribute to an effective bleaching process tailored for dark hair, enhancing results while balancing safety and efficacy.
How Can You Safely Prepare for Bleaching Dark Hair?
To safely prepare for bleaching dark hair, it is essential to take preventive steps that include assessing hair health, performing a patch test, using the right products, and seeking professional help if necessary.
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Assess hair health: Before bleaching, evaluate the condition of your hair. Healthy hair responds better to bleaching. Dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair may be more susceptible to breakage. Aim for a strong base by deep conditioning before the process.
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Perform a patch test: Conduct a patch test to check for allergic reactions. Mix a small amount of bleach and apply it to a discreet hair section or the skin behind the ear. Wait 48 hours to observe any adverse effects such as itching or redness.
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Use the right products: Choose high-quality bleaches designed for dark hair. They contain specific ingredients to lift color without excessively damaging the hair shaft. Look for products containing nourishing agents, such as oils or plant extracts, that can mitigate damage during the bleaching process.
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Consider professional help: If uncertain about the process, seek assistance from a professional hairstylist. Professionals have expertise in choosing the right bleach and techniques, minimizing the risk of damage and achieving the desired results.
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Follow a pre-treatment routine: Implement a routine that includes hydrating masks and oils leading up to the bleaching appointment. Aim for at least a week of care, focusing on strengthening and moisturizing your hair.
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Understand the risks: Acknowledge the possibility of hair damage. Bleaching alters the structure of hair, which may lead to dryness or breakage. Preparing your hair properly mitigates these risks but does not eliminate them entirely.
These steps ensure a more successful bleaching process while helping maintain hair health throughout.
What Are Essential Pre-bleaching Treatments for Dark Hair?
Essential pre-bleaching treatments for dark hair include preparing the hair for the bleaching process, ensuring health and moisture retention, and mitigating damage.
- Hair Assessment
- Deep Conditioning Treatment
- Use of Protein Treatments
- Application of Bond Builders
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Scalp Preparation
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Hair Assessment:
Hair assessment involves evaluating the condition of the hair prior to bleaching. This ensures that the hair is healthy enough to withstand the chemical process of bleaching. A professional stylist typically assesses for dryness, damage, and porosity. Proper evaluation can minimize the risk of severe damage during the bleaching process. -
Deep Conditioning Treatment:
Deep conditioning treatment prepares the hair by adding moisture and nutrients. Hydrated hair absorbs bleach more evenly, reducing the chance of spots or uneven color. Regular use of a deep conditioner, such as a hydrating mask with ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil, is recommended for at least a week before the treatment. According to a study by R. J. Kaiser (2019), properly conditioned hair exhibits better integrity after chemical processes. -
Use of Protein Treatments:
Use of protein treatments strengthens the hair structure before bleaching. These treatments restore essential proteins that may have been lost due to previous processing or environmental factors. Treatments containing keratin or silk proteins can be particularly effective. There is strong evidence from research conducted by F. T. Sarrazin (2020) that such treatments reduce breakage during and after bleaching. -
Application of Bond Builders:
Application of bond builders helps in protecting the hair’s internal structure during the bleaching process. Products like Olaplex work by forming new bonds in the hair that the bleaching agents might break. Studies have shown that using bond builders can significantly reduce hair damage associated with bleaching. For instance, a 2021 survey from the Journal of Cosmetic Chemistry indicates users reported better hair strength and less damage when bond builders were applied. -
Scalp Preparation:
Scalp preparation involves taking steps to protect the scalp from potential irritations during the bleaching process. Using protective oils or barrier creams can guard against chemical burns. Preparing the scalp ensures a more comfortable experience and reduces adverse reactions during bleaching treatments, according to insights from Dr. M. J. Collins (2018).
Following these pre-bleaching treatments suitably equips dark hair for the subsequent processes and helps maintain its integrity.
How Do You Select the Right Developer Strength for Your Hair?
To select the right developer strength for your hair, consider your hair type, the desired lift or lightening level, and the formulation of the dye used.
- Hair Type: Different hair types respond differently to developer strength. Fine hair is more sensitive and may require a lower volume developer to avoid damage. Coarse hair can generally handle a higher volume developer.
- Desired Lift: Developer strength is measured in volumes, typically ranging from 10 to 40.
– 10 Volume: This is best for simply opening the hair cuticle and adding color. It does not lighten the hair significantly.
– 20 Volume: This is commonly used for a single process color that offers up to two levels of lift and is suitable for gray coverage.
– 30 Volume: This allows for three levels of lift and is often used for highlighting techniques and lightening darker hair.
– 40 Volume: This is the strongest developer and provides maximum lift of up to four levels. It is usually reserved for specific applications such as high-lift blondes but can cause significant damage if not monitored carefully. - Dye Formulation: The dye itself plays a vital role in the overall outcome. Some hair dyes are designed to work best with specific developer strengths. Reading the manufacturer’s instructions is essential for achieving the desired results.
Several studies, including one by Clark et al. (2020), indicate that using a developer strength that corresponds to both hair condition and desired results can minimize damage while maximizing color effectiveness.
What Are the Most Recommended Salon-Quality Bleach Products for Dark Hair?
The most recommended salon-quality bleach products for dark hair include several professional brands known for their effectiveness and quality.
- Wella Blondor Multi Blonde Powder
- L’Oréal Professionnel Platinium Plus Lightening Powder
- Schwarzkopf BlondMe Premium Lift 9
- Joico Blonde Life Lightening Powder
- Redken Flash Lift
These products are celebrated for their strong lifting abilities and ability to minimize damage to dark hair. When considering these products, it is important to assess various factors such as hair health, desired lift level, and stylist recommendation.
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Wella Blondor Multi Blonde Powder: Wella Blondor Multi Blonde Powder is known for its powerful lifting capabilities. It can lighten hair up to 7 levels and works effectively on dark hair. This product contains anti-yellowing agents, which help maintain a cooler blonde tone. Many stylists recommend it for its conditioning properties.
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L’Oréal Professionnel Platinium Plus Lightening Powder: L’Oréal Professionnel Platinium Plus Lightening Powder provides up to 9 levels of lift. This product is designed for fast action and contains protective ingredients, which reduce damage. Stylists often note its creamy consistency, which helps in even application.
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Schwarzkopf BlondMe Premium Lift 9: Schwarzkopf BlondMe Premium Lift 9 delivers up to 9 levels of lift on dark hair. It includes bonding technology that helps protect hair during the lightening process. Users appreciate its versatility, as it can be mixed with various developers for customized results.
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Joico Blonde Life Lightening Powder: Joico Blonde Life Lightening Powder allows for a gentle lifting experience. It lightens hair quickly and efficiently, making it a go-to for many professionals. Its added oils provide moisture and protect hair from damage during the bleaching process.
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Redken Flash Lift: Redken Flash Lift is recommended for its speed and ability to lift dark hair effectively. The product contains bonding agents that shield hair from breakage. Many users highlight its consistent results and ease of use.
These products cater to different hair needs and stylist preferences. Selecting the right bleach depends on individual hair conditions and desired lifting outcomes. Consider consulting a professional stylist to determine the best option for your specific hair type and condition.
How Do You Care for Your Hair After Bleaching It?
After bleaching hair, it is essential to implement a proper care routine to maintain its health and appearance. Key points for post-bleaching hair care include hydrating, using gentle products, minimizing heat exposure, and regular conditioning treatments.
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Hydration: Bleaching strips moisture from hair. Therefore, it is critical to hydrate with deep conditioning masks or leave-in treatments. A study by Sinclair et al. (2018) highlights that hydrating products help restore moisture balance in chemically treated hair.
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Gentle Products: Shampoos and conditioners should be sulfate-free and designed for color-treated hair. Sulfates can be harsh and strip the hair of its natural oils. Using milder products helps in preserving the color and texture of bleached hair.
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Minimize Heat Exposure: Heat styling tools like blow dryers and flat irons can cause further damage. Limiting their use allows the hair to recover. The Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2020) indicates that high heat can exacerbate moisture loss and lead to breakage.
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Regular Conditioning Treatments: Incorporating protein-rich treatments helps strengthen bleached hair. Products containing keratin can help rebuild the hair’s structure. Regular use of these treatments, as recommended by hair care professionals, can improve resilience.
Implementing these strategies effectively enhances the overall health and appearance of bleached hair.
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