So you bleached your hair to lighten the color, but now your once bouncy curls have fallen flat.
No matter what you try – curling irons, rollers, hair spray – your newly lightened strands just won’t take a wave and hold it. This frustrating issue is common for color-treated and damaged hair.
You worked hard to get that perfect blonde or platinum shade, so don’t let new struggles with styling bring you down. With the right approach, those stubborn strands can bounce back.
We’ll explain the reasons why your bleached hair doesn’t hold a curl, and provide tips on restoring its manageability and ability to maintain curls.
Get ready to rock your light locks with fabulous curls once again!
Reasons Bleached Hair Won’t Hold Curls
With so many hair products and applications, curling your hair seems more accessible everyday.
However, people who decide to do it after bleaching their hair have seen much more trouble than usual. For whatever reason, it just won’t hold up. Luckily we have the reasons.
- Heat Damage: If you use too much heat on your bleached hair you will damage the proteins and oils you need to keep the curls in place.
- The Products: Several products used for styling cause buildup and create a layer that impedes the curls from forming. Also, if you combine too many of them, they can cause breakage and weaken your hair.
- Lack of Moisture: When you bleach your hair, it can become dry and brittle.
- Loss of Oils: Bleach will be responsible for your hair losing some of its natural oils and proteins.
As you can see, it’s not about which bleach you opt for, bleaching your hair impacts the health of your mane, and holding curls will be harder.
Is Bleaching Bad for Naturally Curly Hair?
Yes, bleaching can be bad for naturally curly hair. Bleach lowers the protein content of natural curls and causes breakage. Your curls will also become stiff, shrink and be even harder to style.
Bleaching can also leave your hair dull and lifeless if you use too much heat or the wrong ingredients. However, if you absolutely want to bleach your curly hair, not everything is lost.
Can You Fix Bleached Hair That Doesn’t Hold Curls?
Yes, you can fix bleached hair that doesn’t hold curls. If you take the time to properly care for your hair, it will grow stronger and more capable of holding a curl.
Bleaching can damage hair and make it more prone to breakage and frizz, which can make it difficult for curls to hold.
Allow your hair to relax and strengthen naturally and do not use harsh chemicals or other style products.
How to Fix Bleached Hair to Hold Curl
Due to its weak and brittle nature, bleaching is not the best choice for curls. With that said, follow the steps below, and you’ll improve your hair vastly and its ability to hold curls.
Use Heat-Protectant Products
Before you even think about how much heat you need, cover your hair with heat-protectant products. An extra layer of protection will go a long way to care for your hair. Apply from the tips to the roots, and be sure to distribute evenly.
Avoid Brushing or Combing Too Much
It sounds counterintuitive, but if you brush your hair too much, you can cause breakage and weaken the shaft of your hair.
If you need to detangle your mane, use a wide-toothed comb, or even your fingers to separate knots and tangles.
Use the Right Styling Products
When styling bleached hair, it is crucial to use the right products. Cream, gel, and mousse are some of the proven products that work great for bleached hair.
They help add moisture and strengthen the hair strands while providing a hold that can help keep the curl in place. They also add a protective layer and prevent breakage or damage.
Give Your Hair Time to Rest
Because chemicals and styling treatments can weaken bleached curly hair, it is vital to give it a rest.
By avoiding chemical treatments, hot tools, and styling products, you can give your hair time to recover and strengthen.
Use Moisturizing Products
To help your hair retain moisture, use deep conditioners and leave-in treatments, they will help to restore the natural oils.
You can also use a hair mask once every week to provide some extra moisture and keep the curl intact.
So, with proper care and product usage, bleached hair can be as bouncy and curly as you desire. If you avoid heat, use the right styling products, and give your hair a break, your curls will stay in place.
It takes time and patience, but you can fix bleached hair that won’t curl. Ultimately, keeping up with proper hair care can help ensure it stays healthy and strong.