Bleaching your hair can open up a world of possibilities, from achieving a platinum blonde to a soft, sun-kissed look. However, there’s one pesky issue that many blonde hair lovers face: yellow undertones. Whether you’ve just bleached your hair or it’s been a few weeks, these yellow tones can often sneak in. But why does bleached hair turn yellow, and how can you prevent it? Let’s dive into the science behind it and explore how to maintain your gorgeous blonde locks without the unwanted yellow tinge.
Why Does Bleached Hair Turn Yellow? Let’s Talk Science
Before we dive into solutions, it's important to understand the science behind why bleached hair turns yellow. Bleaching involves removing the natural pigments (melanin) from your hair to lighten it. The lighter the hair, the more visible underlying tones, including yellow, will emerge. When you bleach dark hair, for instance, the removal of melanin reveals underlying yellow hues, which are often more pronounced in some hair types. So, why does this happen? It all comes down to chemistry!
What happens to your hair when we bleach it?
When you bleach your hair, the first thing that happens is the chemical process of lifting the color. Bleach opens up the hair’s cuticle to penetrate the hair shaft and break down melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its natural color. As bleach strips away this pigment, the hair becomes lighter, but not always perfectly neutral. Yellow undertones can be revealed, depending on your natural hair color and the strength of the bleach used. This is why many people notice a yellowish tinge after bleaching.
Why does bleached hair turn yellow?
After bleaching, it's common to notice yellow bleached hair, and understanding why can help prevent it.
One reason bleached hair turns yellow is that hair color will inevitably fade over time. This fading process exposes underlying pigments that were once hidden beneath darker colors. When bleached hair starts to fade, yellowish tones often emerge.
Another factor is the quality of the water you use. Hard water or water with high mineral content can cause yellow discolouration by depositing minerals onto the hair, which enhances the yellow effect.
How to keep blonde hair from turning yellow
Preventing yellow bleached hair requires some effort, but it’s absolutely possible. Here are a few tips:
Try using a shower filter:
Installing a filter can help remove minerals and chemicals from your tap water, reducing the risk of yellow discoloration.
Wash your hair less frequently:
Washing your hair too often can strip away natural oils, leading to faster fading and more yellow tones. Stick to washing your hair 2-3 times a week to keep it healthier.
Avoid clarifying shampoos:
While they’re great for removing product buildup, they can also strip your hair of color, speeding up the yellowing process.
Use purple shampoo correctly:
Purple shampoo is designed to neutralize yellow tones. It works by balancing out the brassiness and adding a cooler tone to your blonde.
Visit the salon regularly:
Regular salon visits can help maintain your blonde hue by using professional treatments that prevent yellowing and keep your hair healthy.
FAQs
How do you fix yellow hair after bleaching?
Use purple shampoo to neutralize yellow tones, or opt for a salon toner treatment. For long-term results, try GK Hair's Juvexin Cream Color to maintain cool blonde tones.
Is it normal for hair to turn yellow after bleaching?
Yes, it's normal. Bleaching lifts natural pigments, revealing yellow undertones. With proper care, this can be minimized.
How do you bleach your hair without it turning yellow?
Use a bleach with neutralizing agents and follow up with a toner or a color-maintaining product like GK Hair's Juvexin Cream Color.
How do I keep my blonde hair from turning yellow?
To keep blonde hair fresh, use purple shampoo, wash hair less frequently, and consider a shower filter to reduce yellowing caused by minerals in water.
Summary: How to Keep Blonde Hair from Turning Yellow
To keep your blonde hair from turning yellow, here are a few essential steps you can follow:
- Try using a shower filter: This helps to eliminate harsh minerals in your water that can cause yellowing.
- Wash your hair less frequently: Frequent washing can strip your hair of its color, so minimize it to preserve your blonde shades.
- Avoid clarifying shampoos: These can strip the toner, revealing underlying yellow tones.
- Use purple shampoo correctly: Apply purple shampoo to neutralize yellow tones, but don’t overuse it.
- Visit the salon regularly: Professional touch-ups will help maintain your blonde without yellowing.
