15 Simple DIY Hair Bleach Recipes to Lighten Your Hair Naturally at Home
Welcome to the comprehensive guide on DIY Hair Bleach at Home. If you’re looking to achieve lighter hair tones naturally and conveniently, this article is for you.
In this guide, we will explore various natural lightening methods using easily available ingredients and discuss essential precautions to ensure a safe and successful DIY hair bleaching experience.
Whether you’re a haircare enthusiast or a beginner, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and step-by-step instructions to help you achieve your desired results while maintaining the health of your hair. Let’s dive in!
15 Simple DIY Hair Bleach Recipes
Hair bleaching has been a popular method for achieving lightened hair tones or creating a base for vibrant hair colors. While commercial hair bleach products are readily available, they often contain harsh chemicals that can damage your hair. If you’re looking for a more natural alternative to lighten your hair, you’re in luck! In this article, we will share 15 simple DIY hair bleach recipes that you can easily prepare at home using natural ingredients.
1. Lemon Juice and Honey
Lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent, lightening the hair gradually. Honey helps to moisturize and nourish the hair, preventing dryness.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup warm water
Procedure:
- Mix the lemon juice, honey, and warm water in a bowl.
- Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for about an hour. Rinse thoroughly with water.
2. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has natural bleaching properties that gently lighten the hair over time. It is also known to enhance natural highlights and add shine to the hair.
Ingredients:
- 2 chamomile tea bags
- 2 cups boiling water
Procedure:
- Steep the chamomile tea bags in boiling water for 30 minutes.
- Allow the tea to cool down. After shampooing, pour the tea over your hair and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. Rinse with water.
3. Cinnamon Powder and Conditioner
Cinnamon has natural lightening properties that can subtly lighten the hair. The conditioner helps to nourish and soften the hair, preventing dryness.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons cinnamon powder
- Sufficient conditioner
Procedure:
- Mix the cinnamon powder with enough conditioner to form a paste.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair, focusing on the areas you want to lighten. Leave it on for 3-4 hours or overnight for better results. Rinse thoroughly with water.
4. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Baking soda acts as a natural bleach, while hydrogen peroxide helps to lighten the hair further. This combination can effectively lighten darker hair shades.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide
Procedure:
- Mix the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Leave it on for 30-60 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and condition your hair.
5. Vinegar Rinse
Vinegar helps to remove product buildup and excess oils from the hair, making it appear brighter and lighter. It also adds shine to the hair and balances the scalp’s pH level.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 2 cups water
Procedure:
- Mix the white vinegar and water in a bowl.
- After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
6. Rhubarb Root and Water
Rhubarb root contains natural bleaching agents that can help lighten the hair. It is especially effective for blonde or light brown hair shades.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 rhubarb roots
- 4 cups water
Procedure:
- Chop the rhubarb roots and add them to a pot with water.
- Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and allow it to cool.
- Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for 30-40 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
7. Vitamin C Powder and Shampoo
Vitamin C acts as a natural lightening agent that can help strip away artificial color or lighten the hair naturally. This method is particularly useful for removing hair dye buildup.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 vitamin C tablets (crushed)
- Sufficient shampoo
Procedure:
- Crush the vitamin C tablets into a fine powder.
- Mix the powder with your regular shampoo to form a paste.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair and massage it in.
- Leave it on for 30-45 minutes, then rinse and condition your hair.
8. Henna Powder and Lemon Juice
Henna not only provides a reddish tint to the hair but also has mild bleaching properties when combined with lemon juice. This method is suitable for those looking for a subtle lightening effect.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup henna powder
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
Procedure:
- Mix the henna powder and lemon juice in a bowl to form a smooth paste.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair and cover it with a shower cap.
- Leave it on for 2-3 hours, then rinse thoroughly.
9. Olive Oil and Cinnamon Powder
Olive oil helps moisturize the hair while cinnamon powder acts as a natural bleaching agent. This combination can gradually lighten the hair and add a subtle reddish hue.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
Procedure:
- Mix the olive oil and cinnamon powder in a bowl.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Leave it on for 3-4 hours or overnight for better results. Rinse thoroughly and shampoo your hair.
10. Saltwater Spray
Saltwater helps to create natural highlights and lighten the hair when exposed to sunlight. It adds texture and a beachy look to your hair.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 cup warm water
Procedure:
- Dissolve the sea salt in warm water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
- Spritz the saltwater onto damp hair and let it air dry.
- For enhanced results, spend time in the sun or use a hairdryer.
11. Black Tea Rinse
Black tea contains tannins that can darken the hair, making it useful for lightening dark hair shades or adding depth to lighter hair colors.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 black tea bags
- 2 cups boiling water
Procedure:
- Steep the black tea bags in boiling water for 30 minutes. Allow the tea to cool down.
- After shampooing, pour the tea over your hair and massage it into the scalp.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
12. Peroxide and Baking Soda Paste
The combination of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda helps to lighten the hair and remove impurities. It is especially effective for lightening dark or stubborn hair shades.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
Procedure:
- Mix the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair, focusing on the areas you want to lighten.
- Leave it on for 30-60 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and condition your hair.
13. Rhubarb and Yogurt Mask
Rhubarb contains natural lightening properties, while yogurt helps nourish and condition the hair.This mask provides a gentle lightening effect.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 rhubarb stalks
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
Procedure:
- Blend the rhubarb stalks and yogurt together until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair and cover it with a shower cap.
- Leave it on for 30-45 minutes, then rinse and shampoo your hair.
14. Beet Juice and Coconut Oil
Beet juice has natural coloring properties that can add a reddish tint to the hair. When combined with coconut oil, it can create subtle highlights and add moisture to the hair.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup beet juice
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Procedure:
- Mix the beet juice and coconut oil in a bowl.
- Apply the mixture to damp hair, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Leave it on for 1-2 hours, then rinse thoroughly with water.
15. Cider Vinegar and Cinnamon Spray
Apple cider vinegar helps to remove buildup and clarify the hair, while cinnamon powder acts as a natural lightening agent. This spray can help lighten the hair and add shine.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
- 2 cups water
Procedure:
- Mix the apple cider vinegar, cinnamon powder, and water in a spray bottle.
- Spritz the mixture onto damp hair and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
Remember to always follow the instructions and be patient, as natural lightening methods may require multiple applications for noticeable effects. Enjoy your journey to naturally lighter and brighter hair!
How To Bleach Hair At Home
Bleaching your hair at home can be a cost-effective and convenient way to achieve lighter hair tones. However, it’s important to approach the process with caution and follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your hair. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to bleach your hair at home:
1. Prepare Your Supplies
Gather all the necessary supplies before starting the bleaching process. You will need:
- Choose the Right DIY Hair Bleach Method: There are various DIY hair bleach methods available, each with different ingredients and effects.
- Mixing bowl and brush: Use a non-metallic bowl and a hair dye brush for preparing and applying the bleach mixture.
- Gloves: Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands during the process.
- Protective clothing: Wear an old shirt or cape to prevent bleach from getting on your clothes.
- Sectioning clips: Use clips to divide your hair into manageable sections.
- Plastic wrap or shower cap: Cover your hair with plastic wrap or a shower cap to keep the bleach moist and aid in the lightening process.
- Timer: Keep a timer handy to track the processing time.
2. Perform a Strand Test
Before applying bleach to your entire head, it’s crucial to perform a strand test to determine how your hair will react to the bleach. Choose a small section of hair, mix a small amount of bleach with developer, apply it, and follow the processing instructions. Monitor the color and condition of the strand to ensure it achieves the desired result without excessive damage.
3. Protect Your Skin
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a barrier cream along your hairline, ears, and the nape of your neck to protect your skin from potential bleach irritation.
4. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections using the sectioning clips. Start with the bottom layer and work your way up. This will ensure that you apply the bleach evenly throughout your hair.
5. Apply the Bleach
Starting from the roots, use the hair dye brush to apply the bleach mixture to each section of hair. Ensure that the bleach is evenly distributed, saturating the strands completely. Avoid applying bleach to your scalp to minimize potential irritation.
6. Time the Processing
Once you have applied the bleach, cover your hair with plastic wrap or a shower cap to retain moisture and aid in the lightening process. Use a timer to track the processing time. The duration will depend on the level of lightening you desire and the instructions provided with your bleach product. Typically, it ranges from 20 to 45 minutes.
7. Check the Color
After the recommended processing time, check the color of your hair by wiping away a small section of bleach with a damp cloth or paper towel. If you have achieved the desired level of lightness, proceed to the next step. If not, reapply the bleach to the areas that need further lightening and continue processing for a few more minutes.
8. Rinse Thoroughly
Once you are satisfied with the lightness of your hair, rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water. Rinse until the water runs clear and there is no more bleach residue left. Avoid using hot water, as it can strip your hair of natural oils and further damage it.
9. Condition and Care for Your Hair
After rinsing, apply a deep conditioning treatment to nourish and restore moisture to your hair. Bleaching can cause dryness and damage, so it’s important to provide your hair with the necessary hydration. Follow the instructions provided with your conditioning treatment and leave it on for the recommended time before rinsing.
10. Post-Bleach Hair Care
To maintain the health and integrity of your bleached hair, follow these post-bleach care tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair.
- Limit the use of heat styling tools to minimize further damage.
- Protect your hair from UV rays by wearing a hat or using UV protection sprays.
- Deep condition your hair regularly to restore moisture.
- Schedule regular trims to remove any damaged ends.
Remember, bleaching can cause damage to your hair, so it’s important to assess the condition of your hair before proceeding and take proper precautions. If you have concerns or are uncertain about the process, consult a professional hairstylist for guidance.
Points To Keep In Mind While Bleaching Your Hair At Home
When bleaching your hair at home, it’s essential to approach the process with caution to minimize the risk of damage. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Assess the Condition of Your Hair
Before bleaching, evaluate the current condition of your hair. If your hair is already damaged, over-processed, or in poor condition, it may not be suitable for bleaching. Bleaching can further weaken and damage the hair, so it’s important to ensure your hair is in a healthy state.
2. Choose the Right DIY Hair Bleach Method
There are various DIY hair bleach methods available, each with different ingredients and effects. Choose a method that aligns with your hair type, desired results, and level of expertise. Consider factors such as the natural color of your hair and any previous treatments or chemical processes it has undergone.
3. Perform a Strand Test
Always perform a strand test before applying bleach to your entire head. This test will give you an idea of how your hair will react to the bleach and help you determine the processing time needed to achieve the desired results.
4. Use High-Quality Ingredients
When preparing your DIY hair bleach mixture, use high-quality ingredients to ensure better results and minimize potential damage. Opt for natural ingredients, if possible, and avoid using household cleaning products or harsh chemicals that are not intended for hair use.
5. Follow Instructions Carefully
Read and follow the instructions provided with the bleach product meticulously. Pay attention to the recommended mixing ratios, processing times, and any specific guidelines mentioned. Deviating from the instructions can lead to undesirable outcomes or hair damage.
6. Protect Your Skin and Clothing
Before applying the bleach, protect your skin by applying a barrier cream, petroleum jelly, or a thick conditioner along your hairline, ears, and the nape of your neck. Additionally, wear an old shirt or cape to prevent bleach from staining your clothes.
7. Avoid Overlapping
When applying bleach, be mindful to avoid overlapping the product onto previously bleached or lightened hair. Overlapping can lead to excessive damage and breakage.
8. Time the Process Carefully
Set a timer and adhere to the recommended processing time provided by the bleach product. Leaving bleach on for too long can cause severe damage to your hair, while not leaving it on for the required time may result in insufficient lightening.
9. Rinse Thoroughly
After the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Ensure all bleach residue is removed, and the water runs clear. Residual bleach left on the hair can continue to process and cause damage.
10. Deep Condition and Moisturize
Bleaching can strip the hair of its natural moisture and oils, leaving it dry and brittle. After rinsing, apply a deep conditioning treatment to restore hydration and nourishment to your hair. Use moisturizing hair masks and oils regularly to maintain moisture balance.
11. Post-Bleach Hair Care
Adopt a hair care routine suitable for bleached hair. Use sulfate-free and color-safe shampoos and conditioners, avoid excessive heat styling, and protect your hair from UV rays. Regular trims will also help remove any damaged ends and promote healthier hair growth.
12. Consider Professional Help
If you are uncertain or inexperienced with bleaching, it’s advisable to seek professional help. A hairstylist can assess your hair’s condition, provide expert advice, and perform the bleaching process safely.
By keeping these points in mind, you can minimize the risk of damage and achieve your desired lightened hair tones while maintaining the health and integrity of your hair.
Final Thoughts
DIY Hair Bleach at Home offers a range of natural lightening methods that allow you to achieve your desired hair color in the comfort of your own home. By utilizing ingredients like lemon juice, chamomile tea, honey, and more, you can lighten your hair without resorting to harsh chemical products.
However, it is crucial to exercise caution and follow the instructions and precautions provided in this guide to minimize the risk of damage and ensure the best possible outcome.
Remember, every hair type is unique, so it’s important to perform strand tests, assess your hair’s condition, and adjust the methods as needed.
With patience, proper care, and attention, you can achieve beautiful, naturally lightened hair. Embrace your DIY journey and enjoy the transformative experience of achieving your desired hair color at home!
Share Your Thoughts and Experiences: Share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below. We’d love to hear your feedback and suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DIY hair bleach safe?
DIY hair bleach can be safe if proper precautions are taken and the instructions are followed carefully. However, it’s important to note that any form of hair bleaching can potentially cause damage and dryness. Conducting a strand test and assessing the condition of your hair beforehand is recommended. If you have concerns or are unsure, it’s advisable to consult a professional hairstylist.
Can I bleach my hair if it’s already dyed?
Bleaching over previously dyed hair can be more challenging and may require additional steps. The results will depend on the current color and condition of your hair. It’s best to consult a professional hairstylist for guidance, as they can assess your hair and recommend the appropriate course of action.
How long does DIY hair bleach take to lighten hair?
The time it takes to lighten hair with DIY hair bleach can vary depending on factors such as your natural hair color, the strength of the ingredients used, and the desired level of lightening. It’s important to follow the instructions provided with the specific method you choose and conduct strand tests to monitor the progress. Lightening may require multiple applications and can range from a few minutes to a few hours.
Can I bleach my hair without using developer?
Developer is a crucial component in the hair bleaching process, as it helps activate the bleaching agents and lighten the hair. It is generally not possible to achieve significant lightening without using developer. However, there are milder alternatives available, such as low-volume developers or natural ingredients, which may provide a more subtle lightening effect.
How often can I bleach my hair?
Bleaching your hair too frequently can lead to excessive damage and breakage. It’s recommended to wait at least several weeks between each bleaching session to allow your hair to recover and regain strength. It’s important to prioritize hair health and provide proper care and conditioning between bleachings.
Can I bleach my hair if it’s already damaged or dry?
Bleaching can further damage dry or already damaged hair. It’s important to assess the condition of your hair and ensure it is in a healthy state before attempting to bleach. Deep conditioning treatments and regular moisture maintenance are crucial to keep your hair hydrated and minimize the risk of damage.
How can I minimize damage when bleaching my hair at home?
To minimize damage during DIY hair bleaching, follow these tips:
- Conduct strand tests and assess the condition of your hair beforehand.
- Use high-quality bleach products specifically formulated for hair.
- Follow instructions carefully, including recommended mixing ratios and processing times.
- Limit the use of heat styling tools and avoid excessive manipulation.
- Deep condition your hair regularly and maintain a proper hair care routine suitable for bleached hair.
