So, you’ve taken the plunge. You banished that unwanted hair color with Color Oops, hoping to return to your bright, blonde ambitions. But now you’re standing in front of a wall of blonde dyes, wondering: Can I actually use blonde dye right now, or am I setting myself up for a hair disaster? The answer, as with most things in hair coloring, is a bit nuanced. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to safely and effectively dye your hair blonde after using Color Oops.
Understanding Color Oops and Its Impact on Your Hair
Color Oops isn’t a magic wand. It’s a reducing agent designed to shrink the artificial color molecules in your hair, allowing them to be washed away. It works best on permanent and semi-permanent dyes, but it doesn’t lift your natural hair color. It essentially reverses the oxidation process that occurs when you dye your hair darker.
What’s left after using Color Oops? Often, it’s a brassy, orange, or reddish tone. This is because many dark dyes contain red and orange undertones, which are revealed when the darker pigments are removed. Your hair is also likely more porous and susceptible to damage because the Color Oops process can be drying.
Why You Can’t Immediately Dye Blonde After Color Oops
The biggest mistake people make is rushing into a blonde dye job immediately after using Color Oops. The residual chemicals in your hair can interfere with the blonde dye, leading to uneven color, unpredictable results, and potentially more damage. Think of it as trying to paint a wall before it’s completely dry – the new paint won’t adhere properly.
Also, remember that Color Oops doesn’t lift color; it only removes artificial dye. Going blonde usually requires lifting your natural pigment. Trying to apply a blonde dye over hair that still has underlying brassy tones will likely result in a muddy, uneven, or even greenish color.
Assessing Your Hair’s Condition Post-Color Oops
Before you even think about touching a blonde dye, you need to evaluate the state of your hair. Is it dry, brittle, or prone to breakage? Has it been previously damaged by heat styling or other chemical treatments?
A strand test is your best friend here. Take a small section of hair (preferably from underneath, where it’s less visible) and apply the blonde dye you’re considering. Follow the instructions on the dye box carefully, and see how your hair reacts. This will give you a sneak peek into the final color and any potential damage.
Consider these factors:
- Porosity: Porous hair absorbs color quickly but also loses it quickly. Damaged hair is often more porous.
- Elasticity: Healthy hair should stretch a bit before breaking. If your hair snaps easily, it lacks elasticity and needs more conditioning.
- Texture: Fine hair is generally more susceptible to damage than thick hair.
Preparing Your Hair for Blonde Dye After Color Oops
Patience is key! Don’t skip this crucial step. Preparing your hair will significantly improve the outcome of your blonde dye job and minimize damage.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Invest in high-quality deep conditioning treatments. Look for products containing moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, or keratin. Apply these treatments regularly (at least once a week) for several weeks before dyeing your hair blonde.
Leave-in conditioners are also your allies. They provide continuous moisture and protection, helping to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Protein Treatments
While moisture is essential, protein treatments can help rebuild the hair’s structure, especially if it’s damaged. Don’t overdo it with protein, though; too much can make your hair brittle. Use protein treatments sparingly, alternating with moisturizing treatments.
The Importance of Waiting
Ideally, you should wait at least two weeks, and preferably longer, after using Color Oops before dyeing your hair blonde. This gives your hair time to recover and allows any residual chemicals to dissipate. During this waiting period, focus on deep conditioning and gentle hair care.
Choosing the Right Blonde Dye
Not all blonde dyes are created equal. Selecting the right one for your hair type and desired result is critical.
Understanding Levels and Tones
Hair dye is typically categorized by levels, ranging from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde). You need to choose a dye that’s appropriate for your current hair level and the level you want to achieve.
Tones refer to the underlying pigments in the dye, such as ash (cool), gold (warm), or neutral. Consider your skin tone and the overall look you’re going for when choosing a tone. Ashy blondes tend to look best on cool skin tones, while golden blondes complement warm skin tones.
Considering Developer Volume
The developer is the oxidizing agent that activates the dye and lifts your hair’s natural pigment. The higher the volume, the more lifting power it has, but also the more damaging it can be.
- 10 Volume: Deposits color only, with minimal lifting.
- 20 Volume: Lifts one to two levels. Suitable for subtle lightening or covering gray hair.
- 30 Volume: Lifts two to three levels. A good choice for achieving noticeable lightening.
- 40 Volume: Lifts three to four levels. Use with extreme caution, as it can cause significant damage.
If your hair is already light after using Color Oops, you may be able to get away with a lower volume developer. However, if you need to lift your hair several levels, you’ll likely need a higher volume.
Opting for a Gentle Formula
Look for blonde dyes that are ammonia-free or contain nourishing ingredients like oils or keratin. These formulas are generally gentler on the hair and less likely to cause damage.
The Dyeing Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve prepped your hair and chosen the right dye, it’s time to get down to business.
Protecting Your Skin and Clothing
Before you start, protect your skin and clothing by wearing gloves and an old towel or cape. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly along your hairline to prevent the dye from staining your skin.
Mixing the Dye
Carefully follow the instructions on the dye box for mixing the dye and developer. Use a non-metallic bowl and applicator brush.
Applying the Dye
Divide your hair into small sections and apply the dye evenly, starting at the roots. Work your way down to the ends, ensuring that all strands are thoroughly saturated.
Processing Time
Follow the recommended processing time on the dye box. Do not leave the dye on longer than recommended, as this can cause damage. Check the color periodically to see if it’s developing as expected.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Once the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Apply a deep conditioner and leave it on for several minutes to help restore moisture.
Dealing with Brassiness After Dyeing
Brassiness is a common problem when dyeing hair blonde, especially after using Color Oops. Red and orange undertones can persist, even after applying blonde dye.
Toner to the Rescue
Toner is a demi-permanent color that neutralizes unwanted brassy tones. It typically contains purple or blue pigments, which counteract yellow and orange. Choose a toner that’s specifically designed for blonde hair.
Purple Shampoo and Conditioner
Purple shampoo and conditioner are great for maintaining your blonde color and preventing brassiness from returning. Use them once or twice a week, or as needed.
Post-Dye Care: Maintaining Your Blonde Hair
Maintaining your blonde hair after using Color Oops and dyeing requires ongoing effort.
Hydration is Key
Continue using deep conditioning treatments regularly to keep your hair hydrated and prevent breakage.
Heat Protection
Minimize heat styling as much as possible. When you do use heat tools, always apply a heat protectant spray.
Regular Trims
Get regular trims to remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy.
Sun Protection
Protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a hair product with UV protection.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, or if your hair is severely damaged, it’s always best to consult with a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair’s condition, recommend the best course of action, and help you achieve your desired blonde color without causing further damage. Trying to fix a botched dye job yourself can often make the problem worse.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not doing a strand test: This is a crucial step that can prevent major hair disasters.
- Rushing the process: Patience is key when dyeing your hair blonde after Color Oops.
- Using the wrong developer volume: Choosing a developer that’s too high can cause significant damage.
- Over-processing the dye: Leaving the dye on for too long can lead to damage and uneven color.
- Skipping conditioning treatments: Hydration is essential for maintaining healthy blonde hair.
By following these tips and being patient, you can successfully dye your hair blonde after using Color Oops and achieve the beautiful, vibrant color you’ve always wanted. Remember that every head of hair is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Pay attention to your hair’s needs and adjust your approach accordingly. Good luck!
Can I immediately dye my hair blonde after using Color Oops?
Using blonde dye immediately after Color Oops is generally not recommended. Color Oops removes artificial dye molecules, leaving your hair porous and potentially susceptible to further damage. Applying blonde dye, which often contains strong developers to lift color, can overload your hair, leading to breakage, uneven color absorption, or an undesirable shade.
It’s crucial to allow your hair time to recover and rebalance its pH levels. Deep conditioning treatments and protein masks can help restore moisture and strengthen the hair shaft. Wait at least a week, or even longer depending on the condition of your hair, before attempting any further coloring, especially a lightening process like going blonde.
What should I do to prepare my hair before dyeing it blonde after Color Oops?
Before attempting to dye your hair blonde after using Color Oops, focus on restoring its health. Implement a rigorous conditioning routine, using moisturizing shampoos and deep conditioners designed for damaged hair. Protein treatments can also help rebuild the hair’s structure, but use them sparingly to avoid protein overload, which can make hair brittle.
Perform strand tests before applying the blonde dye to your entire head. This will allow you to assess how your hair reacts to the dye, the lifting capacity, and the final color outcome. This precautionary measure can save you from a full-head disaster and allows you to adjust the developer volume or processing time if necessary.
Which blonde dye is best to use after Color Oops?
The best blonde dye to use after Color Oops depends on your hair’s current color and desired level of blonde. If your hair is still quite dark, you’ll likely need a high-lift dye or bleach with a strong developer (30 or 40 volume). However, if your hair is already lightened by Color Oops, you might be able to achieve your desired blonde with a gentler dye and a lower volume developer (10 or 20 volume).
Opt for dyes specifically formulated for damaged or previously colored hair. These often contain conditioning agents and are designed to minimize further damage. Look for brands known for their gentle formulas and consider using a toner after dyeing to neutralize any unwanted brassy or yellow tones.
How long should I wait to dye my hair blonde after using Color Oops?
The waiting period before dyeing your hair blonde after using Color Oops is highly dependent on the condition of your hair. As a general guideline, waiting at least one week is advisable. However, if your hair feels dry, brittle, or damaged after the Color Oops treatment, it’s best to extend the waiting period.
Monitor your hair’s health closely. Use deep conditioning treatments and assess its elasticity. If your hair is still excessively porous or prone to breakage, wait until it feels stronger and more resilient. A strand test is invaluable in determining if your hair is ready for further processing.
What are the risks of dyeing my hair blonde too soon after Color Oops?
Dyeing your hair blonde too soon after using Color Oops can lead to significant hair damage. Color Oops can leave the hair porous and weakened, making it more vulnerable to breakage and dryness. Applying blonde dye, which typically involves harsh chemicals like peroxide, can exacerbate these issues.
The result could be uneven color absorption, brassiness, or even hair loss in severe cases. Damaged hair is also less likely to hold color well, leading to the blonde fading quickly. Investing in hair health before and after any chemical treatment is paramount to maintaining healthy, vibrant hair.
How can I prevent damage when dyeing my hair blonde after Color Oops?
Preventing damage when dyeing your hair blonde after Color Oops requires a multi-faceted approach. Prioritize hair health by using deep conditioning treatments, protein masks (used sparingly), and moisturizing shampoos and conditioners in the weeks leading up to the dyeing process. Consider using a bond-building treatment like Olaplex or similar to strengthen the hair’s internal structure.
During the dyeing process, choose the lowest volume developer that will achieve your desired level of blonde. Perform a strand test to determine the optimal processing time and developer strength. Avoid overlapping the dye onto previously lightened areas to prevent over-processing and breakage. After dyeing, continue with deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture and maintain hair health.
Will my hair color be the exact shade of blonde I want after using Color Oops and then dyeing it?
Achieving your exact desired shade of blonde after Color Oops is not always guaranteed in a single step. Color Oops removes artificial pigment, but it may not lift your hair to a perfectly blank canvas. Underlying tones, such as red or orange, may still be present, which can influence the final blonde color.
Be prepared for the possibility that you may need to tone your hair after dyeing it blonde to neutralize any unwanted brassiness or yellow tones. A toner will help you achieve a cooler, more neutral, or ashier blonde. It’s also possible that you’ll need to repeat the lightening process in a few weeks, after ensuring your hair is healthy enough, to reach your target shade.