How to Make Hair Platinum White

Platinum white hair is one of the most difficult shades to achieve, especially if you start with dark hair, but the results can be stunning when done properly. Platinum blonde is an icy cool shade, usually violet-based. The bleaching and toning process can damage the hair, so make sure the hair is in good condition before attempting this color. With the proper technique, you can achieve a beautiful platinum white hair color.

Things You'll Need

• Developer
• Bleach powder
• Non-metallic container and plastic spoon
• Comb or brush
• Hair color brush
• Paper towel
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Violet-based toner
• Hair color application bottle

Instructions

1. Choose a 20- or 30-volume developer depending on the level of lightening you require. Mix equal parts bleach powder and developer in a non-metallic container with a plastic spoon. Mix the bleach until it forms a creamy, smooth consistency.

2. Comb or brush clean, dry hair. Separate the hair into 1 inch sections, and apply the bleach starting at the ends with a brush. Apply bleach to the roots last because the heat from your head can process the bleach faster. Make sure to saturate the hair completely with the bleach mixture. Allow the bleach to process for the time specified on the package. If any hair dries out before the specified time, apply more bleach. Check the hair color every 10 minutes by wiping off the bleach with a paper towel. The hair should be pale yellow or white.

3. Rinse the hair thoroughly with warm water, shampoo and conditioner. You can apply a deep conditioner to help smooth and restore the hair's condition.

4. Bleach the hair again if necessary following the same process as before. The goal is to achieve a white or pale yellow color.

5. Mix a violet-based toner with a 10- or 20- volume developer until blended thoroughly. Use a ratio specified on the toner instructions. You can mix the toner in a hair color application bottle or a container for brush application.

6. Apply the toner to clean, dry hair one section at a time. Start with the roots, and make sure to saturate all of the hair completely. Allow the toner to develop on the hair for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the instructions. If the toner is left on for too long, the hair can develop a violet hue.

7. Rinse the hair thoroughly, shampoo and condition.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask someone for help when applying the bleach, especially the back of the head.

• Deep condition the hair before and after the bleaching process to prevent and repair breakage.

• Purchase supplies at a beauty supply store, or use a bleach kit which contains everything you need to bleach the hair. You may need more than one bleaching kit to reach a pale color.

• Use a violet color shampoo to maintain the platinum hair. Over time, the hair can develop a yellow or brassy hue. Tone the hair again if necessary.

• Don't leave the bleach on longer than the instructions specify. This can lead to broken or severely damaged hair. The hair can also fall out or your scalp can burn.

References

• "Milady's Standard Cosmetology"; 2008