How to Lighten Coarse Hair

Hair texture is generally classified into four types according to the thickness of the individual hairs: fine, medium, coarse and wiry. The cuticle scales of coarse hair lie flat against the shaft and feel rough and heavy as a result. Coarse hair can be difficult to treat chemically, depending on its overall condition.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Choose products based on the texture of your hair that addresses your specific hair issues, rather than your ethnicity. Coarse hair tends to be more porous and absorbs dye more readily so you may not need to leave the coloring in as long the directions say. Be sure to do a strand test first.

2. Look for products that contain natural oils and fewer chemicals for stripping the moisture from your hair. Remember that coarse hair has a low tolerance for chemicals and may look dry and damaged even when it isn't, so you need to avoid over-processing. Generally, you should use the most gentle coloring method.

3. Ensure that you or your hairstylists apply a heat-protecting product to your hair before using any coloring products.

4. Use products with nourishing, lightweight ingredients such as Brazilian nut oil or capuaca-seed butter. Many products for coarse hair use greasy, thick conditioners.

5. Blow dry your hair every other day instead of using curling irons or flat irons. This will help coarse hair retain its moisture and allow already damaged hair to recover.

Resources

• Find out more about treating coarse hair at Beauty Answer.