Friday 16 November 2012

How To Re-Bleach Hair System Knots (at your own risk!)


People with darker hair on their hair systems often suffer from slightly visible knots, even though they have had them bleached already. One of the reasons for this is because it is very difficult to fully bleach dark knots without ruining the hair shaft and making it so weak as to simply fall off (shedding). It is always a balancing act. 

However, some people just wish to touch them up or do additional bleaching in order to add to the effect, and this can be done at home by yourself, without the need for sending them back for overly expensive re-bleaching.


WARNING: BLEACHING KNOTS CAN WEAKEN THE HAIR OF ANY HAIR SYSTEM AND CAUSE PREMATURE SHEDDING


What You Need:
Bleaching powder (high lift preferable)
Peroxide 40Vol
Mixing bowl
Application brush
Steamer (optional)



Step 1) Ensure the unit has been thoroughly washed and conditioned using cool water only (ensure that no conditioner reaches the knots or lace). Leave the Hair System to dry at room temperature.

Step 2) Place your unit upside down on a Mannequin head.

Step 3) Prepare your bleaching mixture by mixing your Bleach and Peroxide to a 50/50 ratio (varies depending on brand used). The consistency of the mixture should be similar to toothpaste. The consistency is very important, too thin and you will bleach the hair shaft, too thick and you will not fully cover the knots.

Step 4) Apply the bleaching mixture. Be sure to lightly dab the mixture onto the lace, avoid using a brushing motion. The idea is to ensure the mixture does not protrude through the lace and onto the hair shaft, so don’t dab too hard. Ensure all areas are covered sufficiently.

Optional Step 5) Activate the bleach mixture by heating it up. This can be done with a steamer. Try to avoid using a hair dryer as this will simply dry the bleaching mixture out as opposed to activating it. Direct the steam at a small area of the unit for no more than 1-2 seconds. Generally you will see the bleach mixture bubble. Please note it is important to ensure that the bleaching mixture does not become too hot or moist as this could thin the mixture and allow it to access the hair shafts.  This step is optional however in our experience it is the best way to achieve invisible knots.

Step 6) Leave the unit in a ventilated cool area for 30 minutes.

Step 7) Rinse the bleach mixture away using cool water. Hold the unit upside down and gently massage the lace where the mixture was present. Shampoo and condition the unit being careful not to allow any conditioner onto the knots or underside of the lace.

Step 8) Once dry – assess whether a second bleaching process is necessary. Repeat the process again if required.

Step 9) Seal knots. (Generally three coats will ensure the bleached knots are re strengthened)