So, your client you turned beautifully level 10 blonde comes back for her next appointment and their hair looks like a level 8/9. They ask you why? Here are the most common reasons our blondes dull and darken over time, and ways to prevent it:
INADEQUATE CARE
Harsh products or neglecting to use proper home care can lead to blonde becoming darker and duller over time. To maintain the vibrancy, it’s critical to provide clients with the right blonde care products for at home use after their bleaching service.
MINERAL DEPOSITS
Minerals in our water such as iron and copper can accumulate on bleached hair. These minerals can bind to the Proteins in the hair creating a film that alters the colour. Try incorporating Metal Detox LP shampoo & conditioner to the haircare routine to prevent the dulling and darkening of blonde.
PRODUCT BUILDUP
The accumulation of residues will create a layer on the hair shaft affecting the way light interacts with the hair and obscure the true colour of bleached hair. To prevent this it’s important to incorporate clarifying shampoos regularly for remove product residue and maintain the desired blonde tone. SOLU is a top choice for me for shampoo because it is rich in amino acids and antioxidants.
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ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Typically, bleached hair is porous. Pollutants in the air like smog and particles can adhere to the hair over time . UV rays also play a roll in changing bleached hairs appearance. Use UV-protection products such as SU or SOLIEL, and regular cleansing treatments to remove environmental buildup. Deep conditioning treatments can also maintain the vibrancy of bleached hair.
HEAT STYLING
Excess use of heat tools can damage the hair cuticle. When hair is subjected to higher temperatures, the cuticle may lift allowing underlaying pigments to become more pronounced. This coupled with potential moisture loss can create the illusion of darker blonde. Use heat protective products such as the ones listed in my previous post to help preserve the integrity and brightness of blonde
[Editor’s Note: This post was updated in 2025 for freshness and accuracy.]