Hair extensions are great for adding length and volume to your hair, but sometimes you may want to dye them to get a perfect color match or just want to switch things up with a new color. If you have ever wondered if you can bleach hair extensions, you are not alone. Read on to learn everything you need to know about bleaching hair extensions.
1. Can you bleach hair extensions?
While your natural hair can be bleached and dyed easily, you may be not sure about hair extensions as they are not as strong and healthy as natural hair growing directly from the scalp. So, can you bleach hair extensions? The answer can be yes or no, depending on the type of hair extensions you use.
1.1. Synthetic hair extensions cannot be bleached
If you buy synthetic hair extensions, the bad news is no, you can’t bleach them. Synthetic hair extensions are made from plastic fibers that do not react to bleach in the same way as natural hair.
1.2. Human hair extensions can be bleached
Unlike synthetic hair extensions, human hair extensions can be bleached, but the possibility varies depending on their quality. Hair extensions that are ideal for bleaching are made from virgin human hair, which is the highest quality hair material available. As virgin hair has never been chemically treated, the cuticles are kept intact and the strands are strong and healthy, making the bleach work effectively without causing significant damage to the hair.
Hair extensions made from Remy human hair, which has cuticles staying in the same direction, are second to virgin hair in terms of quality. So can you bleach Remy hair extensions? Yes, Remy hair extensions can be bleached, though they will not bring about a good result as virgin hair does.
With non-Remy hair extensions, the answer to the question “Should you bleach hair extensions?” is no, you shouldn’t. These hair extensions have cuticles staying in opposite directions and will be severely damaged after bleaching. The hair will become dry and frizzy and will not last long.
2. How To Bleach Human Hair Extensions?
So if you have the right type of hair extensions for bleaching, let’s learn how to bleach hair extensions at home. It is essential to follow the guidelines carefully for the best results.
2.1. Preparation
Gather necessary supplies
Before diving into the steps, make sure you have all the necessary supplies ready:
- Powder bleach
- Developer
- Plastic wrap/ aluminum foil
- Wide-tooth comb
- Gloves
- Mixing bowl and applicator brush
- Neutralizing shampoo and conditioner
Note: The volume of the developer you use depends on how fast you want your hair extensions to bleach. However, we recommend using a 20-volume developer to minimize damage while still achieving the desired lightening effect.
Prep your hair
Before you start bleaching your hair extensions, make sure they are completely clean and dry. Wash your hair extensions thoroughly to remove any dirt and product buildup, which can prevent you from achieving the perfect result. Let them dry completely and place them on individual sheets of tin foil. Brush them thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots.
2.2. Mix the bleach with the developer
In a large bow, mix the bleach with the developer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the applicator brush to stir until you get a consistent texture and set it aside.
2.3. Apply the bleach or dye to your hair extensions
Put on your gloves to prevent any damage caused to your hair. Now it is time to apply bleach to your hair extensions. Using the applicator brush, apply bleach to the hair extensions generously and evenly from the roots to the ends, avoiding the weft. Make sure the extensions are fully saturated as you don’t want the hair extensions to look uneven later on. Next, fold the foil over the hair extensions to avoid bleach spilling out and help retain heat for better results.
2.4. Process the bleach
Once you’ve finished applying bleach to your hair extensions, let them sit for a while. Check the processing time recommended by the manufacturer, usually about 30 – 45 minutes. It’s important to make sure you don’t leave the hair extensions overprocessed as this will result in damaged hair. Therefore, check up on them every 10 minutes. If you notice the hair has a very light yellow shade, it is time to wash the bleach out.
Note: A high-volume developer will bleach hair extensions faster than a low-volume one.
2.5. Rinse and condition your hair extensions
When time’s up, rinse the hair extensions under running water and wash them thoroughly with a neutralizing shampoo. This type of shampoo will help neutralize the chemicals and stop the bleaching process. If you notice the shampoo changes the hair color, don’t fret as this is just a sign that the shampoo is doing its job.
After shampooing, deep condition your hair extensions and leave them on overnight to keep them moisturized.
3. Tips on bleaching hair extensions
Now that you’ve understood how to bleach hair extensions, we have some extra tips to help you do it yourself with the best results
- Choose high-quality human hair extensions: Hair extensions made from high-quality human hair will not only help you achieve the color you want but are also less prone to hair damage.
- Use a lower volume developer: To minimize damage, opt for a lower volume developer, ideally 20 volume. Higher volume developers can cause significant damage to extensions.
- Conduct a strand test: Before you apply bleach to all of your hair extensions, it’s a good idea to test a small strand to see how it reacts to the bleach. By doing so, you can adjust the amount of bleach needed or the processing time
- Apply bleach evenly: Ensure all strands are coated, but avoid over-saturating, which can cause uneven results and damage.
- Monitor processing time: Keep a close eye on the processing time as overprocessing will damage your hair extensions.
4. Where to buy high-quality light-colored hair extensions?
If you are concerned about the risks of bleaching hair extensions, the best choice is to buy light-colored hair extensions from a reliable hair supplier. Macsara Hair – a leading Vietnamese hair factory, is where you can place your trust for high-quality products available at factory prices.
From white blonde and light blonde to platinum, we offer hair extensions in various light colors for you to choose from. Made from the highest-quality raw hair materials, our Remy human hair extensions are as soft, smooth, and shiny as your own hair. They can also be styled without significant damage if cared for properly.
We are looking to partner with wholesale hair vendors and salon owners all over the world. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or contact us at WhatsApp +84 98 6980 492 for 24/7 support!
See more: How to Dye Your Hair Extensions: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide