Buying Guide for the Best At Home Hair Bleaching Kit
Choosing the right at-home hair bleaching kit can be a daunting task, especially with the variety of options available. The key to a successful at-home bleaching experience is understanding your hair type, the level of lightness you wish to achieve, and the condition of your hair. It's important to choose a kit that not only provides the desired results but also maintains the health of your hair. Always perform a patch test to ensure you don't have an allergic reaction to the product. Additionally, consider the aftercare products included in the kit, as they can help maintain the health and color of your hair post-bleaching.Developer VolumeThe developer volume in a hair bleaching kit refers to the strength of the hydrogen peroxide solution, which is responsible for lifting the hair color. It is crucial because it determines how much your hair color will lighten. Developers typically come in volumes of 10, 20, 30, and 40. A 10-volume developer is the weakest and is used for minimal lightening, while a 40-volume developer is the strongest and can achieve significant lightening. If you have dark hair and want to go several shades lighter, a higher volume developer might be necessary. However, higher volumes can be more damaging, so if your hair is already damaged or fine, a lower volume might be safer.
Bleach PowderBleach powder is the component that, when mixed with the developer, helps to strip the natural color from your hair. The quality and formulation of the bleach powder can affect the lightening process and the health of your hair. Some powders are designed to be more gentle and less damaging, often containing conditioning agents. If you have sensitive or previously damaged hair, look for a bleach powder that is labeled as gentle or conditioning. For those with strong, healthy hair, a standard bleach powder may suffice.
Toning AgentA toning agent is used after bleaching to neutralize unwanted brassy or yellow tones that can appear in lightened hair. This is important for achieving a more natural-looking blonde or platinum color. Toning agents come in various shades, such as purple or blue, which counteract yellow and orange tones, respectively. If you are aiming for a cool-toned blonde, a purple toner is ideal. For those looking for a warmer blonde, a blue toner might be more suitable. Consider your desired final color when choosing a toning agent.
Conditioning TreatmentConditioning treatments are often included in bleaching kits to help restore moisture and strength to the hair after the bleaching process. Bleaching can be harsh and drying, so a good conditioning treatment is essential for maintaining hair health. These treatments can vary in intensity, from light conditioners to deep conditioning masks. If your hair is prone to dryness or damage, opt for a kit with a more intensive conditioning treatment. For those with naturally oily or resilient hair, a standard conditioner may be sufficient.
Application ToolsApplication tools such as gloves, brushes, and mixing bowls are included in many at-home bleaching kits to facilitate the application process. These tools are important for ensuring even application and protecting your skin from the bleach. Kits with high-quality tools can make the process easier and more precise. If you are new to bleaching your hair at home, look for a kit that includes comprehensive tools and clear instructions. Experienced users might already have preferred tools and may not need to prioritize this aspect as much.