Hair lightening can be accomplished in a number of different ways.
Some methods are inexpensive and easy. Others, like salon bleaching treatments cost much more. In fact, on average it costs around $100 at most hair salons for this simple procedure.
Unfortunately, when using harsh bleaching methods, results can vary big time. Using a simple bleaching agent like 3% hydrogen peroxide or a mild vinegar solution are both very effective, and work on all hair colors, but the end result is always a drastic, and sometimes frightening! These popular, yet non-hair-friendly ingredients make it impossible to dial in the perfect shade of lighter hair you’re looking for.
Not to mention the expense of over-lightening. If you take things too far, your only choice will be to go to the salon for a re-coloring – and that’s if your hair doesn’t fall out in the process!
Give the following natural lightening methods a try before trying harsher treatments. They offer great lightening results and nourishment for your hair, without any embarrassing (or painful) consequences:
1. Chamomile Tea
Camomile is one of the safest lightening agents available. You can really dial in the level of lightening you want because it lacks the harshness of a peroxide solution. More treatments will be required during the trial-and-error process, but after you’ve successfully nailed the perfect shade once, it’ll get easier each successive time.
You can also treat your hair once or even multiple times a week with this simple mixture, to keep your hair lightened, without drying or otherwise damaging your hair or scalp. Black and white tea can also be used, but chamomile has proven to be the all round best of all.
Directions:
• Boil 1 bag of chamomile in approximately 1 quart of water for 15 minutes.
• After you’ve allowed the tea time to cool enough that you can apply it without burning, wet your hair with the tea and rub it in.
• Apply 2 or 3 more times and then rinse with water.
• Allow hair to dry and assess results. Repeat with more applications if needed.
2. Rhubarb
Would you have ever guessed that this pie-filling favorite is also a great natural hair lightener? Like chamomile, rhubarb is very gentle on your hair and works wonderfully. Not to mention, your hair will smell fruity and effervescent afterward, rather than the nasty smell left by peroxide or vinegar!
Directions:
• Chop about ½ to 1 full cup of rhubarb and put it into 4 cups of boiling water. Don’t chop too finely as it will be harder to strain the juices after the next step.
• Boil for approximately 10 – 15 minutes then allow to cool.
• Use mesh strainer to extract the liquid.
• Apply the rhubarb juice to your hair and allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
• Rinse hair with water and assess results. Reapply if necessary.
• If 10 minutes wasn’t long enough to achieve desired results, increase to 15 minutes the next time you lighten.
3. Cinnamon & Hair Conditioner
Isn’t it great to know that most of the natural lightening products that work are already right at home in your fridge, cupboard, and bathroom? Cinnamon is an excellent lightener and not at all harsh or irritating to your hair. This method also requires a mild, leave-in cream conditioner.
This lightening method is best when you have an entire day to lounge around, or prior to bed where you can leave the solution in your hair overnight, using a shower cap to protect your sheets and pillowcase.
Directions:
• Add a generous amount of ground cinnamon to a handful of conditioner and mix well.
• Massage the mixture into your hair evenly, using a comb to make sure you’ve covered all areas.
• Twist hair up into a bun if you have longer hair.
• Put a shower cap on your head if you’re planning to go to bed, lounge on the couch, etc.
• Leave in for 6 – 8 hours and then wash out with a gentle shampoo.
• Repeat as often as you like, to achieve and maintain the results you’re looking for.
Happy Lightening!
Natural methods are rarely a one-off 5-minute treatment, and do take a little extra experimentation to get just right. However, your hair will thank you for your efforts, and best, you’ll have to worry about getting a frightening shock when you look in the mirror after applying a chemical lightener ever again when using these and other natural methods!
