10 Rules for Hair Lightening That Help Preserve Hair Health

How to lighten hair correctly. Simple expert tips to help you achieve the desired result with minimal impact on the hair structure

The hairstylist’s task during hair lightening is not only to recreate the desired look as accurately as possible, but also to preserve the healthy condition and attractive appearance of the hair. That is why today we decided to share 10 rules that have the greatest influence on the final lightening result. Thanks to these fairly simple tips, the hair will remain soft and shiny both immediately after the procedure and for a long time afterwards.

How to Lighten Hair Properly

1. Choose only professional lightening powders.
Such products contain higher-quality and less aggressive ingredients. This allows you not only to avoid excessive damage to the hair, but also to achieve an even and beautiful lightening result more easily.

2. Select the oxidant percentage individually.
This stage is the most critical, as the intense action of active oxygen can damage the protein bonds inside the hair structure. To achieve the desired level of lightening, it is not always necessary to use a higher-strength oxidant. For example, hairstylists often mix different oxidants to obtain an intermediate strength, avoiding unnecessary damage.

3. Do not lighten more than 5–6 levels at once.
When planning a dramatic transformation, it is important to understand that it may not happen instantly. Sometimes, to preserve hair health, it is better to proceed in stages. Before lightening dark dyed hair to a blonde level, first lift the tone by 3–4 levels. Postpone the final lightening for a few weeks to avoid severe structural damage.

4. Monitor the action of the lightening product during the process.
To avoid over-processing the bleaching mixture, visually check the hair from time to time. This helps control the lightening process and ensures an even result.

5. Try using a paste instead of powder for damaged hair.
Modern lightening products are available not only in powder form but also as creams. Such products do not differ significantly in use, while helping to avoid mechanical damage caused by powder granules.

6. Add neutralizing oils or collagen additives, HEC.
Special additives added to the mixture of lightening powder and oxidant perform two functions. First, they reduce the negative impact of oxidative components and normalize the alkaline balance. Second, professional additives support the hair’s protective layer, reducing the risk of its destruction. These products do not affect the degree of lightening while improving hair condition after the procedure.

7. Use lotions and oils to protect the scalp.
The use of special creams and emulsions for the scalp protects it from irritation and redness. These products ensure client comfort and prevent unpleasant sensations that may occur due to the action of lightening components.

8. Apply an equalizer for porous hair.
Professionals know that porous hair structure makes the application of coloring mixtures more difficult. Lightening powder can also distribute unevenly, affecting the final result. We recommend using a professional salon tool before the procedure — an equalizer spray. It evens out the hair surface, making the application of the lightening mixture easier.

9. Use special post-procedure products.
Professional products after lightening and coloring help to fix the achieved shade and protect it from washing out. They also additionally restore and strengthen the hair structure.

10. Help the client choose proper home care.
Recommend professional shampoos and masks that will maintain color intensity. Such products usually have a special pH level, do not contain aggressive components, and strengthen the protective barrier, preventing pigment loss.