Why Is Bleaching Hair Bad?

Hair bleaching is a process that strips color from the hair's strand, leaving it looking yellow or white. While bleaching is a popular way to turn hair blonde, it can cause serious damage if not done right.

Function

Hair bleaching works by using hydrogen peroxide to manipulate the hair's cuticle, forcing it to soften and lift. The bleach then penetrates the hair shaft and causes the color molecules to leave the strand.

How Damage Occurs

When the bleaching agent is left on too long, the chemical damages the hair follicle by dissolving the moisture in the strand.

Types of Damage

Hair that has been only mildly damaged by a bleaching agent will be dry and brittle. Hair that has severe damage will be extremely rough and spongy; breakage is possible and hair may fall out.

Prevention

The amount of time bleach is left on the hair should be as short as possible. In order to speed up the chemical process, heat can be applied to the hair, such as through the use of infrared heat lamps.

Treatment

Hair which has been damaged by bleach can be treated by leaving on a deep conditioner for at least 30 minutes. Because washing the hair can strip it of its natural oils, washing hair only once or twice a week is best.

References

• Bleaching Hair