Understanding Your Hair Type
Before attempting to make your bleached hair soft and silky, it’s important to understand that not all hair types are created equal. In general, hair can be categorized into three types: fine, medium, and coarse. Understanding your hair type is essential to determine the best products and techniques to use.
Fine hair is usually thin and delicate, and lacks volume and density. It tends to be more prone to breakage and tangling, especially when it’s bleached. Medium hair, on the other hand, has a thicker diameter and is more resistant to damage. It can hold styles better than fine hair, but may require more effort to keep it manageable and healthy. Coarse hair is strong and resilient, with a rough texture and thick diameter. It can be difficult to style, but is less prone to damage than fine or medium hair.
Once you have identified your hair type, you can choose the right products and techniques to make your bleached hair soft and silky. Fine and medium hair may require more gentle products and careful handling to prevent damage. Coarse hair, on the other hand, may benefit from deep conditioning treatments and heavier products to provide extra moisture and softness.
Deep Conditioning Treatment
Bleached hair is more vulnerable to breakage and damage, which can lead to dry, brittle strands that are prone to tangling and frizzing. Fortunately, a weekly deep conditioning treatment can help restore the health and vitality of bleached hair, leaving it soft, silky, and more manageable.
When selecting a deep conditioner, look for products that are specifically designed for colour-treated or damaged hair. These formulas are often enriched with nourishing ingredients like keratin, argan oil, and shea butter, which can help repair and strengthen the hair from within.
To apply your deep conditioning treatment, start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo to remove any dirt or buildup. Then, apply a generous amount of conditioner to your strands, focusing on the ends and any particularly dry or damaged areas. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly throughout your hair, and leave it in for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water.
For an extra nourishing boost, you can also try leaving your deep conditioner in overnight. Simply apply the conditioner as directed, then cover your hair with a shower cap or towel and leave it in while you sleep. In the morning, rinse the conditioner out thoroughly and style your hair as usual.
By incorporating a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your hair care routine, you can help combat the negative effects of bleaching and keep your hair looking soft, silky, and healthy.
Avoid Heat Styling
Bleached hair is fragile and prone to damage. When you add heat styling to the picture, you’re doubling down on the harm you’re causing to your hair. Avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible. Instead, opt for air-drying your hair or use heat protectants before styling.
Heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, produce high temperatures that can damage hair fibers, causing split ends, breakage, and dryness. On bleached hair, the damage can be even worse because your hair has already been weakened by the bleaching process. So, it’s essential to avoid using these tools altogether or reduce their usage as much as possible.
One easy way to avoid heat styling is to let your hair air dry naturally after washing it. To speed up your drying process, you can gently blot your hair with a towel to remove excess water. Once your hair is about 50% air-dried, you can use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to brush through your hair gently.
If air-drying isn’t your thing and you must use heat styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray or cream before you style. Heat protectants create a barrier between your hair and the heat styling tool, which helps minimize the damage caused by the high temperature.
You can also reduce the heat settings on your styling tools and focus on using them for shorter periods. Experts recommend using no more than 300°F on bleached hair to avoid causing severe damage.
Lastly, make sure you’re not over-styling your hair. Give your scalp and hair follicles a break by avoiding tight braids, ponytails, and buns for too long. Letting your hair hang down or using a loose ponytail can give your hair a much-needed rest from the strain of elaborate hairstyles. By following these simple tips, you can keep your bleached hair soft, silky, and healthy.
Use Leave-In Conditioner
Bleached hair requires a lot of attention and care to maintain its gorgeous look while keeping it soft and silky. Using a leave-in conditioner can provide added moisture to your hair, ensuring it remains soft and silky even after multiple washes. A leave-in conditioner is beneficial for your hair as it helps protect it from environmental stressors, such as humidity, pollution, and harsh weather conditions.
The best leave-in conditioners for bleached hair are those formulated with hydrating and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, keratin, and coconut oil. These ingredients ensure that your hair is moisturized, hydrated, and healthy. Aloe vera is a natural ingredient that is known to soothe the scalp and protect the hair from breakage and damage. Keratin, on the other hand, is a protein that strengthens and smooths the hair while also promoting elasticity. Coconut oil is a popular choice for hair care products because it is rich in fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft, providing intense hydration and preventing protein loss.
When using a leave-in conditioner, it is essential to follow the instructions on the label. For best results, apply the leave-in conditioner to damp hair and distribute it evenly using your fingers or a comb. Be careful not to apply too much product, as this can weigh down your hair and make it appear greasy.
Moreover, it is also important to choose a leave-in conditioner that is suitable for your hair type. If you have fine or thin hair, look for a lightweight formula that won’t weigh your hair down. If you have coarse or thick hair, opt for a more potent formula that will provide the extra hydration and moisture your hair needs.
In conclusion, using a leave-in conditioner is an essential step in your hair care routine if you want to keep your bleached hair soft and silky. It provides additional moisture, protects your hair from environmental stressors, and promotes healthier, more resilient hair. Choose a leave-in conditioner that is right for your hair type and use it regularly for the best results.