Guide for Healthy Blonding

Thinking about taking the blonde plunge, but heard too many bleach horror stories? The main rule for going blonde is to do it with realistic expectations. Before you assume it's all hair damage and breakage, we invite you to read this guide about the blonding process. We're going to break down the myths and the real risks so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your blonding.

Transitioning to blonde should not be just about achieving a perfect hairstyle, but ensuring your hair is as incredible as it looks. Healthy, glowing blonde locks is what we are all looking for. Getting blonde locks in the healthiest way possible is all about lightening your hair while maintaining its strength and brightness.

What happens during the blonding process

Ladies, let's be real: blonding is a chemical process that, depending on what we're starting with and what you're looking for, can be done in one to three appointments. Going blonde implies some level of damage to the hair. If you have colored hair, your stylist will need to use bleach and even with high-quality products and hair coloring techniques, blonding will still affect your hair's structure. Here's what happens during the bleaching:

• The cuticle is lifted
• The pigment is removed
• Internal bonds are changed

Therefore, the fibre of your hair will never be the same. The lightener removes protein, which leads to less elasticity and more breakage, while moisture loss results in drier and britter hair. Several outside factors can make the bleaching more risky, including: exposure to sun, pollution, and chlorine, hard water minerals, daily heat styling, harsh brushing or tight hairstyles. All these are damaging to your hair, and blonding can amplify the process.

Healthy blonding is not a myth

It's a fact: we cannot avoid all the damage. Healthy blonding is about managing the process with professionalism that requires the right expertise and high-quality products. If your hair is healthy, and a skilled colorist does the lightening process, unnecessary damage can be easily avoided. But even then, there will most likely be some level of minimal damage to your hair.

At your first appointment, we will ask some questions. Not because we are nosy, but because we want the best results. Consultation with your colorist should not be only about choosing the right hair color. It should start by getting to know your hair history. When you are at your first blonding appointment, asking some of the following questions is necessary for building a healthy and effective process:

• What colors or highlights did you have previously?
• Did you use henna or metallic colors?
• What are your heat styling habits?

We will also ask you about your medication, health issues, and hormonal shifts (such as pregnancy and postpartum) because these factors can impact how your hair reacts to the lightener. Therefore, the more honest you are with your hairstylist, the healthier the blonding process will be.

What to Expect at Plaza Hair Salon

Going blonde is a personal journey for everyone; what looks excellent on celebs may not work for you. Blonding falls into multiple categories, from cool to warm-toned blonde shades to various hair coloring techniques such as balayage or ombre. Our hairstylists will guide you in what is achievable and what is not, depending on your hair's health, texture, previous hair color, or natural base color. Our hairstylist will recommend shades that complement your natural features, achieving the desired effect, whether that's a bold hair transformation or a natural sun-kissed glow.

Maintaining your dream blonde hair requires quality products and a customized hair care plan. Whether you're taking the blonde plunge for the first time or looking to improve your current blonde, we invite you to call for an appointment at the Plaza Hair Salon. Our hairstylists will create a personalized plan that works with your hair type and maintenance preferences, resulting in a stunning hair color that remains beautiful for weeks to come.