As spring slogans seem to pop up, the importance of having a reliable after-bleach routine becomes really clear. I’ve tested tons of products to find what truly nourishes and tones hair post-bleach—trust me, it’s a game-changer. From managing brassiness to maintaining softness, I know exactly what works when your hair needs extra TLC.
Out of everything I’ve tried, the Bleach Kit by Hally Hair, Totally Clean Lightener & Toning stood out for its gentle yet effective formula. It lifts up to 8 levels, cancels out yellow tones with a purple base, and keeps hair nourished with chamomile, lavender, and aloe. Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from all the harsh stuff that damages your hair long-term. Compared to the L’Oreal Colorista kit, which offers versatile color options and an anti-brass conditioner, Hally’s kit delivers professional results at home without compromising hair health. After thorough testing, I recommend this kit for its balanced power and care—perfect for achieving vibrant, healthy-looking hair after bleaching.
Top Recommendation: Bleach Kit by Hally Hair, Totally Clean Lightener & Toning
Why We Recommend It: This kit provides a powerful yet nourishing lightening experience, lifting hair up to 8 levels with a purple base to cancel brass. Its inclusion of chamomile, lavender, ginseng, and aloe ensures the hair stays hydrated and healthy, unlike the L’Oreal kit which focuses more on color versatility. Its cruelty-free, vegan formula further adds to its appeal for gentle, effective care.
Best things to do after you bleach your hair: Our Top 2 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit – Best for Achieving Vibrant Bleached Hair
- Bleach Kit by Hally Hair, Totally Clean Bleach – Hair – Best Value
L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones
- ✓ Nourishing, oil-rich formula
- ✓ Easy to customize and apply
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Limited to lightening and toning
| Lightening Capability | All-over lightening, highlights, or ombre effects |
| Formulation Type | Oil-rich, ammonia-free bleaching and coloring formula |
| Color Neutralization | Includes anti-brass purple conditioner for cool tones and brassy tone neutralization |
| Hair Color Options | Semi-permanent, permanent, and temporary hair dyes available |
| Additional Features | Customizable application for various hair coloring styles |
| Inclusion | Bleach kit with conditioning and toning products |
After bleaching my hair, I was worried about ending up with brassy, yellow tones that ruin the fresh, light look I was going for. I grabbed the L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit, curious if it could help me maintain that cool, icy blonde without damaging my strands.
The kit comes with everything you need—lightening cream, a purple conditioner, and tools to customize your look. I appreciated how easy it was to apply, thanks to the included brush and gloves, plus the instructions were clear.
It lightened my hair evenly, and I loved that I could choose to do all-over bleach or just add highlights for a more natural effect.
Once my hair was light enough, I used the purple conditioner. It felt rich and nourishing, not drying like some other toners I’ve tried.
The purple tone immediately neutralized any yellowish tint, leaving my hair looking cool and fresh. The oil-rich formula also kept my hair soft and manageable, which was a huge plus after bleaching.
What really impressed me was how customizable the process was. I could easily create a gradient or highlight effect, depending on what I wanted.
Plus, it’s ammonia-free, so I didn’t have that harsh chemical smell or feel.
Overall, this kit made my post-bleach routine much easier and more effective. It protected my hair while keeping the color looking salon-fresh.
If you’re worried about brassiness and damage, this combo is a game-changer for maintaining bright, beautiful blonde.
Bleach Kit by Hally Hair, Totally Clean Lightener & Toning
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing formula
- ✓ Easy to use at home
- ✓ Effective toning results
- ✕ Slightly pricier than others
- ✕ Needs careful timing for best results
| Lightening Level | Up to 8 levels of lift |
| Developer Volume | 35 Volume (strength of developer solution) |
| Included Treatments | Deep conditioner and nourishing ingredients (Chamomile, Lavender, Ginseng, Aloe) |
| Formulation Type | Cream bleach with purple base for toning |
| Application Method | Mix, section, apply, wait, rinse, condition |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | Yes, free from ammonia, sulfates, parabens, resorcinol, gluten, and PPDs |
Imagine you’ve just finished bleaching your hair at home, the process leaving your hair feeling a little dry and the color a bit uneven. You reach for the Hally Totally Clean Lightener & Toning kit, curious if it lives up to its promises of gentle, salon-quality results.
The purple-toning cream immediately catches your eye—smooth, creamy, and easy to apply with the included gloves.
As you work through the application, you notice how effortlessly it spreads, thanks to its thick but manageable consistency. The Aloe Vera-infused developer feels soothing on your scalp, which is a relief after the initial bleaching process.
Waiting for the lightening to develop, you appreciate the pleasant chamomile scent, making the whole experience more tolerable.
Rinsing out the bleach reveals a surprisingly even lift, with the purple base doing a good job of cancelling brassy tones. Your hair feels softer than expected, thanks to the nourishing ingredients like Lavender and Ginseng.
The deep conditioner treatment is a quick step that leaves your hair feeling hydrated and manageable, not stripped or brittle.
Overall, this kit makes it easy to achieve a clean, professional look at home without sacrificing hair health. It’s perfect if you want to brighten your hair while keeping it nourished, especially after a bleaching session that can sometimes leave your hair feeling fragile.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and free from harsh chemicals is a big plus.
What Should You Do Immediately After You Bleach Your Hair?
The steps to take immediately after bleaching your hair include rinsing, conditioning, and avoiding heat styling.
- Rinse hair with cool water
- Apply a deep conditioner
- Use a leave-in conditioner
- Avoid washing your hair for 48 hours
- Refrain from heat styling
Taking care of your hair post-bleaching is essential to minimize damage and maintain hair health.
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Rinse Hair with Cool Water: Rinsing hair with cool water is crucial after bleaching. Cool water helps to close the hair cuticles, which can reduce damage and enhance shine. It is recommended to rinse for several minutes until the water runs clear. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests rinsing thoroughly to remove bleaching agents.
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Apply a Deep Conditioner: Applying a deep conditioner offers essential hydration that bleached hair needs. A deep conditioner penetrates the hair shaft better than regular conditioners. Products designed for color-treated hair often contain ingredients like keratin and argan oil, which help restore protein and moisture levels. According to a study from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Moorhead, 2015), such treatments can significantly improve hair elasticity and strength.
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Use a Leave-in Conditioner: Using a leave-in conditioner helps protect and moisturize hair throughout the day. Leave-in conditioners, unlike regular conditioners, do not require rinsing and provide ongoing hydration and protection. They can detangle hair, making it easier to manage. A 2021 study from the International Journal of Trichology indicated that leave-in conditioners also help reduce frizz and enhance shine in chemically treated hair.
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Avoid Washing Your Hair for 48 Hours: Avoiding washing your hair for at least 48 hours allows the cuticle to close fully and helps to lock in moisture and color. This time frame ensures that hair retains as much of the beneficial oils released during the bleaching process as possible, promoting healthier hair. Hair care experts from the American Hair Loss Association recommend this practice for optimal results post-bleaching.
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Refrain from Heat Styling: After bleaching, it’s important to refrain from heat styling tools such as blow dryers and straighteners. Heat can exacerbate the damage caused by bleaching. According to industry professionals, waiting at least one week before using heat styling tools can help prevent breakage and dryness. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Lewis, 2018) suggests that excessive heat can lead to irreversible damage in chemically treated hair.
How Can You Restore Maximum Moisture to Your Processed Hair?
To restore maximum moisture to processed hair, use hydrating products, implement moisturizing treatments, and avoid heat damage.
Hydrating products: Choose shampoos and conditioners labeled as hydrating or moisturizing. These products often contain ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, which attract and retain moisture in the hair. An example is a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, which found that products containing glycerin improved hair hydration.
Moisturizing treatments: Apply deep conditioning masks weekly. These treatments penetrate hair strands and nourish them with vitamins and oils. Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter provide essential fatty acids that help restore shine and softness. According to research in the International Journal of Trichology, treatments enriched with these oils can significantly improve hair moisture retention.
Avoid heat damage: Minimize the use of heated styling tools such as blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons. Excessive heat can strip hair of moisture. Studies show that heat can lead to protein denaturation in hair, making it more porous and prone to dryness (Loden, 2005). Instead, opt for air drying or use a thermal protector spray if heat styling is necessary.
Regular trims: Schedule regular haircuts every six to eight weeks. This removes split ends and allows hair to maintain a healthier appearance. Trimming helps in managing breakage, leading to healthier moisture levels.
Protective hairstyles: Use hairstyles that reduce manipulation and stress on the hair, such as braids or buns. Protective styles help retain moisture by shielding hair from environmental factors.
Consider supplements: Incorporate vitamins like biotin and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. Research has shown that these supplements improve hair health and moisture from within (Dawsey et al., 2020).
Using these strategies can lead to significant improvements in the moisture levels of processed hair, resulting in healthier and more manageable strands.
What Are the Most Effective Conditioning Treatments for Bleached Hair?
The most effective conditioning treatments for bleached hair include deep conditioning masks, leave-in conditioners, protein treatments, and hair oils.
- Deep conditioning masks
- Leave-in conditioners
- Protein treatments
- Hair oils
To understand these treatments better, let’s explore each type.
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Deep Conditioning Masks: Deep conditioning masks work by penetrating the hair shaft to deliver essential moisture and nutrients. They often contain ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and proteins, which help restore hydration. According to a study by the International Journal of Trichology (2013), deep conditioning can improve hair elasticity and reduce breakage.
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Leave-in Conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing moisture and protection throughout the day. These products are lightweight and do not require rinsing. A review published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2019) found that leave-in conditioners can improve manageability and shine, making them ideal for bleached hair.
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Protein Treatments: Protein treatments help strengthen weak and damaged hair caused by bleaching. These treatments rebuild the keratin structure, which is essential for hair strength. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2015) notes that regular protein treatments can significantly decrease hair brittleness and improve resilience to further chemical treatments.
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Hair Oils: Hair oils, such as coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil, provide nourishment and seal in moisture. They can also reduce frizz and enhance shine. Research by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2015) demonstrates that oils create a protective barrier, which helps minimize damage from heat styling and environmental stressors.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in Post-Bleach Hair Products?
To care for hair after bleaching, seek products with specific key ingredients that help restore moisture, strength, and shine.
- Key Ingredients to Look For:
– Protein
– Moisturizers
– Oils
– Vitamins
– pH Balancers
– Antioxidants
When selecting post-bleach hair products, it is important to understand how these ingredients work to enhance hair condition.
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Protein:
Protein strengthens hair. Bleaching can strip hair of its natural proteins, leading to weakness and breakage. Products containing hydrolyzed keratin or silk proteins can help rebuild hair structure. Research from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2016) highlights that protein treatments improve hair elasticity and reduce damage. -
Moisturizers:
Moisturizers retain hydration in bleached hair. Ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera draw water into the hair strands. According to a study in the International Journal of Trichology (2018), humectants can visibly improve hair shine and texture by maintaining moisture balance. -
Oils:
Oils such as argan oil or coconut oil nourish and condition hair. They provide essential fatty acids that smoothen the hair cuticle. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018) notes that natural oils can also reduce protein loss in hair subjected to bleaching. -
Vitamins:
Vitamins, particularly B7 (biotin) and E, contribute to healthier hair growth. Biotin helps strengthen hair shafts, while vitamin E supports scalp health. A 2018 study in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that vitamin E promotes hair growth and vitality. -
pH Balancers:
pH balancers restore hair’s natural acidity. Bleaching raises hair’s pH, making it more alkaline. Products with citric acid or apple cider vinegar can help restore balance. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) indicates that restoring the natural pH can enhance the overall appearance and manageability of hair. -
Antioxidants:
Antioxidants protect hair from environmental damage. Ingredients like green tea extract or vitamin C fight oxidative stress that can lead to dull, lifeless hair. A study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine (2015) found that antioxidants significantly improve hair health by preventing damage from pollutants and UV light.
How Can You Protect Your Bleached Hair from Damage?
To protect bleached hair from damage, you should adopt a consistent hair care routine, use protective products, limit heat exposure, and consider professional treatments.
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Consistent hair care routine: Establish a regular washing and conditioning routine. Use sulfate-free shampoos and deep conditioners designed for color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip essential oils, leading to dryness. Deep conditioning treatments help retain moisture and improve hair elasticity. According to a study by Hwang et al. (2020), consistent use of moisturizing products can significantly reduce hair breakage.
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Use protective products: Apply leave-in conditioners and hair oils that contain ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil. These products help to create a protective barrier around hair strands. They can seal in moisture and prevent environmental damage. The Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that oils can penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss during washing.
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Limit heat exposure: Minimize the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. When heat is necessary, use a heat protectant spray beforehand. A temperature setting below 180°C (356°F) is advisable for colored hair. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes that excessive heat can exacerbate dryness and cause further damage to bleached hair.
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Consider professional treatments: Regular salon visits for treatments like bond builders can be beneficial. These treatments work to strengthen hair bonds that bleaching can damage. According to a study published in the International Journal of Trichology, bond-building treatments can improve hair strength by up to 90% after bleaching.
By following these key practices, you can effectively protect your bleached hair from potential damage and maintain its health and vibrancy.
What Hairstyles Are Best for Bleached Hair Care?
The best hairstyles for bleached hair care include options that minimize damage and maintain the health of the hair.
- Loose braids
- Low buns
- Beach waves
- Half-up, half-down styles
- Protective updos
- Soft curls
- Sleek ponytails
Considering these options, many people have different perspectives on what hairstyles may work best given their unique hair textures and personal preferences. Some argue that styles like low buns are functional and reduce exposure to heat, while others may prefer loose braids for their aesthetic appeal and minimal tension on the hair.
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Loose Braids: Loose braids protect bleached hair from tangling and breakage. This style requires minimal tension, which can help reduce stress on the hair shaft. Women with bleached hair often find that braids can be a stylish way to keep hair managed without heavy styling tools, which can further damage delicate hair.
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Low Buns: A low bun is a great protective hairstyle that keeps hair gathered neatly. It limits exposure to environmental stressors and reduces tangling. While some may view this style as too formal, it works well for casual settings and keeps the hair secure without pulling tightly at the roots.
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Beach Waves: Beach waves involve minimal heat styling, which is essential for bleached hair care. This hairstyle embraces a relaxed look while showing off the lighter tones in bleached hair. Many people opt for this style due to its effortless appearance and compatibility with various outfits.
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Half-up, Half-down Styles: This option offers versatility by allowing the best of both worlds. Hair is partly tied up which limits damage on the longer sections while still enjoying the look of having hair down. Various accessories can be worn to enhance the style, appealing to those who enjoy adding personalization.
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Protective Updos: Protective updos are beneficial for long-term hair health. These styles tuck the ends of the hair away, reducing exposure to damage and preventing split ends. Some individuals argue this is the best way to maintain bleached hair, especially during harsh weather conditions.
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Soft Curls: Soft curls create a voluminous look without requiring excess heat. Using heat protectant also minimizes damage to bleached hair. Many find that soft curls, when created with curling wands set to lower temperatures, maintain the vibrancy of bleached hair.
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Sleek Ponytails: A sleek ponytail offers a polished look while keeping hair neatly secured. It minimizes physical manipulation of the hair, which can lead to breakage. However, some believe tight ponytails can create tension and should be avoided on fragile, bleached hair.
These hairstyle options provide various benefits, addressing the need for protection and aesthetic appeal tailored for bleached hair.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid After Bleaching Your Hair?
After bleaching your hair, it is crucial to avoid certain common mistakes that may lead to damage or undesirable results.
- Skipping deep conditioning treatments
- Washing hair too frequently
- Using hot water during washes
- Neglecting UV protection
- Overusing heat styling tools
- Ignoring professional advice
- Choosing the wrong hair products
To understand the consequences of these actions, we can look at each mistake in detail.
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Skipping Deep Conditioning Treatments: Skipping deep conditioning treatments after bleaching can lead to dry and brittle hair. Bleaching strips the hair of moisture. A deep conditioner restores hydration and improves hair health. A study from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Blume-Peytavi et al., 2017) emphasizes the importance of hydration for maintaining hair integrity post-bleach.
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Washing Hair Too Frequently: Washing hair too frequently can strip essential oils and moisture from the hair. Bleached hair is already delicate. Limiting washes to two or three times a week helps retain moisture. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that less frequent washing preserves natural oils and hydration.
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Using Hot Water During Washes: Using hot water during washes can further damage bleached hair. Hot water opens the hair cuticles, leading to moisture loss. Warm or cool water helps to seal the cuticle and maintain hydration levels. The International Journal of Trichology recommends using lukewarm water to protect color-treated hair.
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Neglecting UV Protection: Neglecting UV protection can result in color fading and damage from sun exposure. UV rays can weaken hair structure and degrade color. Products with UV filters can help protect hair from harmful rays. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology has shown that prolonged UV exposure can lead to significant hair damage.
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Overusing Heat Styling Tools: Overusing heat styling tools can exacerbate damage to bleached hair. The high temperatures can lead to further dryness and breakage. Using heat-free styling methods, or applying heat protectants before styling can mitigate this risk. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science suggests using protective products to minimize damage.
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Ignoring Professional Advice: Ignoring professional advice can lead to poor hair care practices. Professionals can provide tailored recommendations based on hair type and condition. A survey by the American Hair Loss Association indicates that personalized consultations often lead to healthier hair outcomes.
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Choosing the Wrong Hair Products: Choosing the wrong hair products can contribute to further hair damage. Products not formulated for bleached hair may contain harsh chemicals or sulfates. Using gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair is essential for protecting bleached hair. The American Chemist Society emphasizes the benefits of specialized hair care products for maintaining color and health.
How Can You Maintain the Vibrancy of Your Bleached Hair?
To maintain the vibrancy of your bleached hair, it is essential to use color-safe products, minimize heat exposure, incorporate hydrating treatments, and protect hair from environmental damage.
Using color-safe products: Choose shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products contain gentle cleansing agents that help preserve the hair color. According to a study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2022), sulfate-free shampoos prevent color fading. They maintain moisture balance in bleached hair, which is more porous.
Minimizing heat exposure: Limit the use of heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons. Heat can strip moisture and cause further damage to bleached hair. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Johnson, 2021) states that hair treated at high temperatures can become brittle and lose sheen. If heat styling is necessary, use a heat protectant spray. This product creates a barrier against high temperatures and helps retain vibrancy.
Incorporating hydrating treatments: Regularly apply deep conditioning masks or leave-in treatments. Hydrating masks restore moisture and improve elasticity in bleached hair. A 2020 study in the Journal of Trichology found that weekly conditioning treatments significantly improved the hydration levels of processed hair. Ingredients like argan oil or shea butter are beneficial as they nourish and strengthen hair strands.
Protecting hair from environmental damage: Use hair products with UV filters to shield hair from sun exposure. The sun’s rays can cause color to fade and lead to dryness. The Philippine Journal of Science (Garcia & Lim, 2019) highlighted the connection between UV exposure and hair color degradation. Additionally, wearing a hat when in direct sunlight can provide physical protection.
By following these guidelines, it is possible to keep bleached hair vibrant and healthy.
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