From Dark to Blonde? Here are Some Tips and Advice

Are you thinking about making the big move from dark to blonde? Or maybe you’re just curious about what it would be like? Either way, there are a few things you should know before taking the plunge. For starters, going from dark to blonde is a big commitment. It’s not something you can just do on a whim – you really need to be sure that’s what you want. bleaching your hair can be damaging, so if you’re not prepared to deal with that, then it’s probably not for you. If you are considering making the switch, though, here are some tips and advice to help you through the process. From choosing the right shade of blonde to caring for your hair post-bleach, we’ve got you covered.

Choose your blonde

If you’re considering making the move from dark to blonde hair, there are a few things you should know. First, it’s important to consult with a professional colorist to ensure that the shade is right for you.

It’s helpful to understand the different types of blonde hair color. There are four main categories: platinum, ash, golden, and beige. Each type of blonde has a different undertone, so it’s important to choose the right shade for your skin tone. Whether you’re looking to go lighter, brighter, or even add a little bit of dimension, there are so many blonde shades to choose from. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you and your stylist choose the perfect shade of blonde for your next hair color appointment: 

• Ash blonde: This cool-toned shade is perfect for those with fair skin and blue or green eyes. It’s also a great option for those looking to transition from dark hair to blonde.
• Beige blonde: This subtle shade is perfect for those who want to go blonde but don’t want anything too drastic. It’s also a good option for those with warm skin tones.
• Golden blonde: This timeless shade is perfect for those with warm skin tones and brown or hazel eyes. It will give you a sun-kissed look that’s perfect for summertime. 
• Platinum blonde: This ultra-light shade is perfect for those with cool skin tones and blue or green eyes. It’s a bold choice that will definitely make a statement. 

Big Commitment

If you’re thinking about making the switch from dark to blonde hair, you should know that bleaching your hair is a major commitment. Once you go blonde, there’s no going back (unless you’re willing to put in the time and effort to dye your hair back to its natural color).

Not only that, but going blonde also requires regular upkeep. You’ll need to get your hair trimmed and your roots done every few weeks to maintain your new look. 

What to expect

Bleaching your hair is a major process that can damage your strands. If your goal is to go from dark brown to blonde without completely wrecking your hair, then it’s best to visit your professional stylist to come up with a plan.

Expect it to take several sessions to lift your hair from dark brown to a light blonde. Going too light too quickly can result in excessive damage, so it’s best to take your time and go gradually lighter if possible.

When it comes to maintenance, blonde hair requires a bit more care than darker shades. You may need to use clarifying shampoo more often to prevent buildup, and regular trims are essential to keep your hair looking healthy. But with the right care, you can rock gorgeous blonde locks!

And finally, be patient! Going from dark to light takes time, so don’t try to rush the process or you could end up with some serious damage.

Learn the Lingo

Now that you know what you’re getting yourself into, let’s talk about some of the lingo you’ll want to know before heading to the salon.

• Bleach, or color remover: This is the chemical used to lighten your hair and remove its natural color. Bleach works by breaking down the melanin in your hair, which is what gives it its color. Bleach can lighten 2-3 shades in one session, but it’s also very damaging to your hair.
• Lift refers to the process of lightening your natural hair color. This is usually done with bleach. You may hear your stylist say they expect to be able to lift your hair 3 levels, for example. This means that if you start with “Level 3” dark brown hair, you can expect to get to a “Level 6”, which is dark blonde during your session.
• Toner: A toner is a colored dye that’s used after bleaching your hair to help correct the tone of your new color. Toners are usually applied all over the head, but they can also be used on specific areas that need help (like bleached-out roots).
• Developer: This is a chemical used in conjunction with bleach or toner to help penetrate the hair shaft.
• Roots: The roots are the part of your hair that grows out from your scalp. You’ll need to get them touched up every few weeks when you go blonde, as they’ll start to show your natural hair color over time.

Caring for your lightened hair

If you’ve recently lightened your hair from a darker shade, congrats! A new hair color can definitely give you a boost of confidence. But now that your hair is lighter, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to keep it healthy and looking its best. Here are some tips for caring for your lightened hair:

– Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Look for products that are sulfate-free and specifically designed for color-treated hair.

– Avoid heat styling as much as possible. If you do use heat tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand.

– Get regular trims. This will help prevent split ends and keep your hair looking fresh.

-Use a healing mask to help with damage and dryness.

– Limit your time in the sun. Too much sun exposure can fade your hair color. If you’ll be spending time outdoors, wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair.

Feeling a bit unsure?

If all of the information about going from dark to blonde hair has you second-guessing whether that’s the right choice for you, you can consider a less drastic change.

• Highlights refer to lightening just a few strands of hair here and there for a natural-looking effect. They’re often used to add dimension to your hair.
• Balayage is a technique that involves painting lightener onto your hair in strategic places for a sun-kissed look. It’s much less high-maintenance than going fully blonde, and it can be customized to suit your individual style.
• Extensions can be a good substitute for any chemical treatment. You can have lighter colored extensions added to your hair for a damage-free way to lighten and brighten the look of your locks.

Going from dark to blonde can be a beautiful transition. Just keep in mind the tips we’ve shared here.  If you’re on the fence about going blonde or need help with choosing the shade, book an appointment with one of our colorists to help you make an informed decision and create a plan to get you where you want to go while minimizing the damage to your hair.

Looking for a new look? Searching for your next salon? Visit one of Nashville’s premier salons Elan Hair. Located in the heart of Green Hills, our experienced staff will bring out your best. Contact us today at 615.269.0222 or book now online.

Elan Hair opened its doors in 1996 in the heart of Green Hills. From the moment you enter our space, we want you to feel welcomed and at home. Our group of extremely knowledgeable and talented hairstylists will keep you looking and feeling your best. They not only care about your hair, they care about you as a person. At Elan, we strive to give the best experience possible, so you always leave feeling amazing! Contact us today at 615.269.0222 or book now online.