You buy hydrogen peroxide from stores and in drugstores. It is an ordinary household cleaning and first aid supply. It is also used as a disinfectant and as bleach. You are familiar with it, and at one time in your life, you used it. You might think you know all about it by now, but did you know that it can be used as a hair lightener?
Hydrogen peroxide as a hair lightener
Hydrogen peroxide is a naturally occurring element in the environment. It is commonly found in rainwater. It is liquid and colorless, but with a sharp smell. You will often find it in stores. The ones commercially sold are in 3% to 9% concentration. These are what is often used to dye hair.
The use of hydrogen peroxide is safe for most hair and skin types. However, it is also possible for it to cause lung, skin, and eye irritation to others. Make sure to test on small areas first before going all the way with the application.
Some things to take note of before getting started
You can use hydrogen peroxide to change your hair color, specifically for lightening. It can be a stand-alone dye or may be combined with other dyes. It can turn dark colored hair to blonde. It is also the base used for changing to another color when dyeing hair.
One thing to remember when using hydrogen peroxide for dying is that the resulting output is permanent. Therefore, you have to be sure about the choice of changing colors because there is no going back. Should you regret it, you will have to wait for new hair to grow again.
This is because applying hydrogen peroxide alters the hair cortex, the part of the hair responsible for the pigments that decide its color. So once changed, that is final.
Applications of hydrogen peroxide for dyeing
Before you begin, make sure that you are confident enough to successfully do the whole thing. Otherwise, have the dyeing done from your favorite salon.
Learn the proper way of making a solution that is safe for your hairline and skin. Know the right dilution to prevent skin irritation, and apply it carefully and slowly on your hair until you arrive at the desired hair color.
Hydrogen peroxide-baking soda mixture
Another option for dyeing hair using hydrogen peroxide is to use it together with baking soda. This is a great combination. Baking soda, being an alkaline, opens up the hair cuticle to enable the hydrogen peroxide to reach the hair cortex faster. The combination also eases the breaking down of melanin found in the hair.
Applying this combination is easy. Just make a paste out of the two and carefully spread it to the area you want to color. Make sure that the paste is evenly applied. Let it stay for 15 minutes or an hour. The length of time depends on the color you want to achieve. Rinse it thoroughly with cold water afterward.
Commercial dyes
Commercially available dyes that change hair colors permanently are often with hydrogen peroxide content. The chemical content of the dye strips the natural color of the hair and enables the introduced pigment to stay on longer.
Simply hydrogen peroxide
You may also use hydrogen peroxide on its own. This will transform your hair to a lighter shade, with no other color effects. If you want a simple makeover, you might want to try this.
First of all, protect your skin and scalp by first applying petroleum jelly on your hairline and wearing hand gloves. Then, make a water and hydrogen peroxide solution at a 1 to 1 ratio, or one part of each combined. Transfer it to a spray bottle and work through a small portion of hair to test if you got the color you desire. This initial testing will also determine if you will have allergic reactions.
When satisfied, get a clean towel to cover your neck and shoulders. Soak your hair with the solution and let it stand for at least 15 minutes or until you reach the desired color. Rinse thoroughly after.
Salon service
If you do not mind spending a few dollars on this beautification project, going to a salon for the makeover is still the best option. A trained hairstylist can provide more color options and suggestions. They are also trained to handle possible mishaps, especially possible damages.
Hair damage from hydrogen peroxide
Although generally safe, hydrogen peroxide may cause hair damage. This is not unique to highly concentrated ones. The ones bought for home use, which is just a 3% solution, may also cause this. Thus, using it must always be with caution.
Skin Irritation
Hydrogen peroxide is often used as a skin disinfectant. However, too much use can irritate, especially too sensitive skin. Stop the use of this product when you experience rash or discomfort.
This may also happen when you use hydrogen peroxide to dye your hair. Irritation may occur along the hairline and scalp. The solution: petroleum jelly. Apply this on your hairline, and it will do the trick.
Hair cuticle damage
Dyeing hair using hydrogen peroxide may damage the cuticle of your hair. The hair cuticle is the outer layer of the hair that is responsible for protecting and strengthening it. When you use hydrogen peroxide in dyeing, it will penetrate through the cuticle to enable the color change.
When this happens, the hair can become weaker and may cause frizz, breakage, and split ends. The best solution to prevent further damage and protect your hair is to use deep conditioning treatments.
Hair Loss
There is a chemical reaction that takes place when using hydrogen peroxide as a dye. Since it is an oxidative dye, it works on the hair cortex to change the color. In the process, it makes the hair weaker. It causes a permanent change in the chemical structure of the hair causing it to become stressed. This results in hair loss. Also, when the hair cuticle is damaged, the hair breaks, which also contributes to hair loss.
Alternative hair dyes
Aside from hydrogen peroxide, there are other natural options for dying your hair. You can find some of them below:
Apple cider vinegar
Spray a combination of 1 part apple cider vinegar to 6 parts water to your hair. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse it off after. This may have different outcomes on various hair types.
Cinnamon
Make a paste using powdered cinnamon and water. Apply it to your hair generously and leave it on covered for a few hours. Rinse thoroughly after. This can bring out blonde and red highlights to your hair.
Chamomile
Start by brewing a cup of your favorite chamomile tea, preferably a strong one. Saturate your hair with it for a few minutes. The effect of this alternative may take a while, but it works.
Lemon juice
Mix lemon juice and water. Apply the mixture to your hair generously. Leave it to dry under the sun for a few hours. Rinse thoroughly afterward. This works mostly on light brown or dark blonde hair.
Honey
This option is very mild and will only cause a slight lightening of hair color. Just mix some honey and water and spread through your hair. Cover it and let it stay for some time, overnight if you like. Rinse it out later on to complete the steps.
You decide
Hydrogen peroxide is a cheap and safe alternative to dyeing hair. The above are some considerations in using it. It is up to you to decide if you will try it or not.