Mix equal parts lemon juice and water. Apply to hair and sit in the sun for 30 minutes. Rinse. Repeat until desired lightness is achieved. Be aware that lemon juice can dry out hair. The amount of lemon juice you’ll use will depend on the length and thickness of your hair. If you have medium-length hair, you might use 1/4 cup of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of water. Adjust the amount as needed.
How to Brighten Dark Hair in the Comfort of Your Home
You can also attempt the following techniques to lighten your hair at home without using dye:
Chamomile tea: Strong chamomile tea should be brewed, then allowed to cool. Spend 30 minutes in the sun after applying the tea to your hair. Continue until the desired degree of lightness is attained.
Honey and cinnamon: To produce a paste, combine honey and cinnamon in equal amounts. 30 minutes in the sun after applying the paste on your hair. Continue until the desired degree of lightness is attained.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar and water should be combined in equal parts. After applying the combination to your hair, spend 30 minutes in the sun. Continue until the desired degree of lightness is attained.
Salt water: A gallon of water should be salted with 1/4 cup of salt. After applying the combination to your hair, spend 30 minutes in the sun. Continue until the desired degree of lightness is attained.
Peroxide with baking soda: To form a paste, combine 1 part peroxide with 3 parts baking soda. 30 minutes in the sun after applying the paste on your hair. Continue until the desired degree of lightness is attained.
It is crucial to remember that these techniques might not be effective for everyone, and the outcomes might change depending on the color, texture, and health of your natural hair. Additionally, bear in mind that these techniques could dry out your hair and scalp, so make sure to moisturize them often.
Lemon Juice DIY Method
To lighten dark brown hair at home without using permanent hair color, follow these simple steps:
In a spray bottle, combine lemon juice and water in equal parts.
Apply the mixture to your roots and lengths in sections of your hair, making sure to properly saturate your hair.
- Spend 30 to 60 minutes sitting in the sun.
- Use cool water to completely rinse your hair.
- Continue until you reach the desired degree of lightness.
- After rinsing, condition your hair well to prevent dryness.
According to Meesh, Contributing Editor and HairBrushy Chief Product Analyst, “After lightening your hair, deep condition it because lemon juice might make it dry. Additionally, this method is not suitable for everyone, and the outcomes depend on the color, texture, and health of your natural hair.“
When using lemon juice to lighten your hair, it is better to do it in direct sunlight since this activates the juice’s lightening properties. To warm your hair after applying the lemon juice combination if you don’t have access to natural sunlight, use a hair dryer.
- In a spray bottle, combine lemon juice and water in equal parts.
- Apply the mixture to your roots and lengths in sections of your hair, making sure to properly saturate your hair.
- To dry your hair, put the hair dryer to the highest heat setting.
- For 30 to 60 minutes, leave the mixture on your hair.
- Use cool water to completely rinse your hair.
Continue until you reach the desired degree of lightness. To prevent dryness, condition your hair thoroughly after rinsing.
According to Meesh, Contributing Editor and HairBrushy Chief Product Analyst, “You should maintain your hair and scalp well hydrated because using a hair drier will dry out your hair and scalp. Be aware that outcomes may differ and that you might not get the same level of lightening from artificial light that you would from natural sunlight.“
Chamomile Tea DIY Method
Strong chamomile tea should be brewed and allowed to cool to room temperature.
- After shampooing, towel-dry your hair.
- The cooled tea should be poured over your hair and massaged into the scalp.
- Tease your hair for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Use cool water to completely rinse your hair.
- 1-2 times a week, repeat the method until you reach the desired amount of lightness.
For a change to be evident, several treatments could be necessary. Additionally, persons with blonde hair should avoid using this technique, but if you have blond hair you are probably not going to be looking at this method because you already have light hair, right!
Honey And Cinnamon DIY Method
- To make a paste, combine honey and ground cinnamon in equal parts in a basin.
- Make careful to completely coat your dry hair with the paste before applying it.
- For optimal results, leave your hair in place overnight or for at least two hours while wearing a shower cap.
- After a thorough warm water rinse, shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
- 1-2 times a week, repeat the method until you reach the desired amount of lightness.
Vinegar DIY Method
- In a spray bottle, combine vinegar and water in equal parts.
- Make careful to evenly distribute the mixture throughout your dry hair as you spray it on.
- The combination should be left in your hair for 20 to 30 minutes.
- After a thorough warm water rinse, shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
- 1-2 times a week, repeat the method until you reach the desired amount of lightness.
Salt Water DIY Method
- Fill a spray bottle with 1 liter of warm water and 1/4 cup of salt.
- Make careful to evenly distribute the mixture throughout your dry hair as you spray it on.
- The combination should be left in your hair for 20 to 30 minutes.
- After a thorough warm water rinse, shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
- 1-2 times a week, repeat the method until you reach the desired amount of lightness.
According to Meesh, Contributing Editor and HairBrushy Chief Product Analyst, “Salt water can be damaging to the hair and scalp since it can be drying. Therefore, use it moderately and with caution.“
Peroxide With Baking Soda DIY Method
In order to protect your hair and scalp from potential harm, I would suggest against putting peroxide and baking soda on your hair.
These substances can damage and dry out hair as well as itch, burn, and irritate the scalp in various ways. Additionally, it might alter the color and texture of your natural hair, which can cause breakage, split ends, and hair loss.
There are safer and more natural ways to lighten your hair, as I’ve advised in prior methods I mentioned above.
What Are Different Types Of Hair Lighteners Available On The Market?
On the market, there are various kinds of hair lighteners, here are the methods I am familiar with:
Topical creams: These are applied directly to the hair and frequently include bleaching ingredients like hydrogen peroxide. They come in a variety of intensities based on the desired level of lightening and are typically used to brighten small portions of hair, like highlights.
Hair dyes: These can be used to lighten hair by a few shades and available in a variety of hues. Some hair colors are designed expressly to lighten hair and are marked as such on the packaging. Some of them can be used to lighten hair, including temporary and semi-permanent hair colors.
Powder lighteners: Hair lighteners that come in powder form and are combined with a developer to form a paste are known as powder lighteners. The most common uses for them are to add highlights or lighten hair by many shades.
Lightening sprays: Sprays that are applied directly to the hair and contain lightening chemicals are known as lightening sprays. They are primarily used for highlights and can be used to brighten small patches of hair.
Highlighting kits: These are sets that include a lightening powder, developer, and instructions, as well as everything you need to make highlights at home.
Lightening shampoos and conditioners: Shampoos and conditioners with lightening ingredients can be used over time to gradually lighten hair. They are the finest for people who want a slight alteration in hair color because they are less harsh than other kinds of lighteners.
Pros And Cons Of Types Of Hair Lighteners
The ideal hair lightener for you will depend on a few things, including your hair type, the extent of lightening you want, and the state of your hair right now. The effectiveness of each kind of hair lighteners and my thoughts are summarized as follows:
Topical creams: If applied improperly, they can be damaging to the hair and scalp and ineffective for whitening small patches of hair, such as highlights.
Hair dyes: These are less abrasive than other forms of lighteners and can be helpful for whitening hair by a few shades. On really dark hair, they might be less effective.
Powder lighteners: The use of powder lighteners can be used to add highlights or lighten hair by several shades. They can harm hair if not applied correctly and if left on for an extended period of time.
Sprays for lightening hair: These can be useful for highlighting small patches of hair, but they might not be as effective on wider portions.
Highlighting kits: Highlighting kits can be useful for achieving highlights at home, but they might be challenging to use if you’ve never colored your hair before.
Shampoos and conditioners that lighten hair: These products can be useful for progressively whitening hair over time, but they might not create noticeable results.
What Are The Different Ways That Hair Lighteners Can Be Used And The Pros And Cons?
Hair can be lightened in a number of ways: by using a lightening shampoo and conditioner, a lightening spray, hair color, a highlighting kit, or a combination of these methods. Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages; the one that’s best for you will depend on your hair type, the degree of lightening you want to achieve, and the state your hair is currently in.
Applying Lighteners Directly To Your Hair
Direct application of lighteners to the hair: Using a brush or comb, directly apply a lightening product to the hair using this technique. Topical creams or powders with hydrogen peroxide or other lighteners are the most popular products used for this technique. This technique is frequently used to add highlights or lighten specific patches of hair. The advantages of this approach include accurate application and the capacity to create a particular appearance. However, if used incorrectly or if it is left on for an excessive amount of time, it can be damaging to the hair and scalp.
Hair Dye
Hair dye: This technique calls for the use of a hair color designed to lighten hair. Usually, this technique is used to lighten hair a few shades. Although it is gentler than other lighteners, it may not work as well on really dark hair. The advantage of this procedure is that it may be used to modify the color of the hair and is less harsh than other forms of lighteners. However, if hair dye is applied improperly, it can harm the hair and irritate the scalp.
Highlighting Kits
Highlighting kits: Using a kit that contains the necessary ingredients, including a lightening powder, developer, and instructions, you can make highlights at home using this technique. Even though this technique can be useful for adding highlights, it can be challenging to utilize if you’ve never colored your hair before. This technique has the advantage of being a cheap way to make highlights at home, but if applied improperly, it can also be harmful.
Shampoo And Conditioner With Lightening Agents
Shampoo and conditioner with lightening agents: This technique calls for the use of lightening shampoo and conditioner. While this technique may work well for gradually whitening hair over time, it might not yield spectacular effects. This method’s advantage is that it may be used to progressively lighten hair and is less harsh than other lighteners. However, it could take longer than other treatments to achieve the desired effects, and it might also make your hair dry.
Lightening Sprays
Lightening sprays: Sprays that contain lightening chemicals are used in this technique and are applied straight to the hair. Small portions of hair can be successfully lightened using this technique, but bigger sections of hair may not respond as well. This method’s advantage is that it may be used to add highlights and brighten small patches of hair. It might not be as efficient as other approaches, though.
Advice On How To Use Hair Lighteners Safely
Perform a patch test: It’s crucial to perform a patch test before using any hair lightener to ensure that you won’t experience an allergic response or sensitivity to the substance. On the inside of your elbow, apply a little amount of the skin lightener and wait 24 hours to check for any redness, itching, or other indications of irritation.
Use the appropriate hair-specific product: It’s crucial to select a hair lightener that is especially developed for your hair type because not all hair lighteners are appropriate for all hair kinds. For instance, you should pick a hair lightener that is made for use on hair that has been colored or is damaged.
Read and follow the directions: To ensure that you use the hair lightener product correctly and safely, always read and adhere to the instructions on the packaging carefully.
Avoid the sun: Sun exposure can damage your hair and accelerate the fading of hair lighteners. If you want to lighten your hair, wait at least 48 hours after using the lightener before exposing it to the sun.
Use lighteners sparingly: Never use too much lightener on your hair. Too much can harm it. Start with a modest amount and add more as required.
Use a deep conditioning treatment: Deep conditioning treatments might assist to strengthen and hydrate hair after hair whitening.
Seek advice from a stylist: It is best to seek advice from a qualified stylist or trichologist if you have any questions about how to use hair lightener safely or if you are worried about the state of your hair.
Be reasonable: Be aware that the process of lightening your hair may require multiple sessions to reach the desired amount of lightness, so be patient and temper your expectations.
What Are My Top Tips For Keeping Hair Lightened After Using A Hair Lightener?
Following the use of a hair lightener, follow my tips to maintain lightened hair:
To preserve the color and stop it from fading, use a shampoo and conditioner made especially for hair that has been lightened with a hair lightener.
When styling your hair with heat tools, use a heat protectant to avoid damage and maintain the color.
Use lukewarm water rather than boiling water while washing your hair to avoid color fading.
To maintain the color’s vibrancy and to freshen the color, use a hair lightening lotion or toner.
Avoid using chlorine and salt water because they can hasten the fading of the pigment.
Once a week, give your hair a deep conditioning treatment to keep it hydrated and guard against damage.
Avoid chemical hair treatments like perming, dyeing, and hair straightening because they can harm your hair and cause the color to fade.
Before going outside in the sun, apply sunscreen to your hair to prevent color fading.
How Do I Choose The Right Natural Hair Lightener?
There are several factors to take into account when selecting a natural hair lightener:
Hair Type: Certain hair types respond better to particular natural hair lighteners. For instance, lemon juice works best on light brown or blonde hair, but chamomile works best on light brown or blonde hair.
Desired Level of Lightening: Different natural hair lighteners work differently to lighten hair to the desired level. You might need to use a stronger lightening agent or apply it for a longer time if you want a noticeable lightening result.
Sensitivity: Some people could react negatively to some natural hair lighteners. It’s best to test a small area of skin before using it on your hair if you have sensitive skin.
Safety: If not used correctly, several natural hair lighteners can harm your hair or scalp. Make sure to do your homework on the proper application and any possible adverse effects of any product you are contemplating.
Time: Different natural hair lighteners require different amounts of time to lighten your hair. You might wish to choose a faster approach if you’re pressed for time.
What Is The Difference Between A Hair Toner And A Hair Lightener?
Two distinct hair coloring products with separate functions are a hair toner and a hair lightener.
A product used to lighten hair color is referred to as a hair lightener or hair bleacher. It works by lightening the color and dissolving the natural pigments in the hair. When transitioning from a darker shade of hair color to a lighter one, like blonde, this is typically done. The main ingredient in hair lighteners, which come in powder, cream, or liquid form, is hydrogen peroxide or another chemical that can degrade the melanin in the hair. They can also be used to get rid of undesired colors, color accumulation, and hair coloring.
A hair toner, on the other hand, is a substance that is used to add a desirable tone to the hair or to neutralize unpleasant undertones. After bleaching, toners are frequently applied to the hair to reduce brassy and yellow undertones and create a more natural-looking hue. Toners are frequently semi-permanent and don’t remove the hair’s natural pigments; instead, they add a fresh shade of color on top. They can also be used to intensify or alter the tonality of natural hair color or to maintain the color after a few weeks.
Are There Any Right Hairstyles That Will Look Better When Transitioning From Darker Shades Of Hair To Lighter Ones?
Certain hairstyles may look better during the transition process from darker to lighter hair tones. Here are some haircuts that could be suitable:
Layers: By blending the lighter ends with the darker roots, layers can assist hide the transition.
A bob or lob can also be used to conceal the contrast between the lighter ends and the darker roots. People with naturally curly hair may find this style particularly advantageous because it can reduce bulk.
Using the Balayage or Ombre hair coloring methods, the hair is gradually lightened from the roots to the ends. This can aid in producing a seamless change from dark to light.
Without entirely committing to a lighter color, highlights can be utilized to impart lighter shades to the hair. Before making a full color change, this can be a fantastic way to test out several shades and see how they appear on you.
Pixie cuts and buzz cuts are both excellent choices if you’re seeking for a significant makeover. The majority of the hair is cut off with these styles, which can help to lessen the contrast between the darker roots and lighter ends.
The greatest hairstyle for you will depend on your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle, so keep that in mind as well.
Does My Hair Type Affect How Well A Product Works When Trying To Lighten My Hair?
Yes, while attempting to lighten your hair at home, the type of hair you have might determine how effectively a product works. Here are some things to think about:
Hair texture: Fine hair may not be able to tolerate as much lightening as coarse hair because it is more sensitive and susceptible to damage. On the other side, coarse hair might be more resistant to lightening.
Hair condition: Hair that has received chemical treatments or is damaged may not lighten as well.
Curly hair: Because of the places that curls can generate that are more challenging to reach with a lightening solution, curly hair can be more challenging to lighten. Additionally, following lightening, curly hair might become more fragile and dry, so it’s crucial to use a strong conditioner and stay away from heat styling.
Natural hair color: Your hair’s natural shade can have an impact on how successfully it lightens. Blonde hair, for instance, is easier to lighten than darker hair.
Porosity: The capacity of hair to absorb and hold moisture is referred to as porosity. Low porosity hair is more resistant to color changes while high porosity hair absorbs more quickly.
Will Klorane Sun Lightening Spray Work Effectively On People With Dark Hair Coloring?
A hair lightening product called Klorane Sun Lightening Spray uses the sun to naturally lighten hair. Chamomile, which is renowned for its lightening qualities, is the principal active component. For those with dark hair coloring, the product is a wonderful alternative because it progressively lightens the hair over time. On people with very dark hair, though, it won’t be as effective because it can take several treatments and a lot of sun exposure to notice a difference.
It’s also crucial to keep in mind that the effectiveness of any hair lightening treatment might change depending on a range of elements, including your hair’s original color and texture, its porosity, and how well you adhere to the product’s directions.
Summary And Conclusion
There are numerous techniques to lighten hair, such as using hair color, highlighting kits, lightening shampoo and conditioners, using lightening sprays, and applying lighteners straight to the hair. The optimal procedure for you will depend on your desired level of lightening, your hair type, and the state of your hair right now. Each process has advantages and disadvantages.
- Direct application of lighteners to the hair: This technique is frequently used to add highlights or lighten discrete regions of hair. If not used appropriately, it can be precise but also damaging to the hair and scalp.
- Using hair colour, you may normally lighten your hair a few shades. Although it is gentler than other lighteners, it may not work as well on really dark hair.
- Highlighting kits: This technique can be useful for adding highlights at home, but it might be challenging to apply if you’ve never colored your hair before.
- Shampoos and conditioners that lighten hair: This technique can be useful for progressively whitening hair over time, but it might not yield spectacular results. Although it is gentler than other lighteners, it could make hair dry.
- Lightening sprays: This technique may be successful for whitening small patches of hair, but it might not be as successful for whitening larger portions.
Improper hair lightening might harm your hair, therefore it’s ideal to seek professional advice from a hairdresser or trichologist before attempting to lighten your hair. Also I highly recommend always do a patch test before applying any of these products and or methods to your hair.
References
Lamont, E. (2006). Color me natural: lighten your locks or cover the grays without damaging your tresses. Natural Health, 36(10), 66-72.
Whitting, D. A., & Draelos, Z. D. (2008). Hair cosmetics. Hair growth and disorders, 499-513.