How to Achieve Platinum Hair: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re dreaming of that icy, ethereal platinum blonde? You envision yourself rocking the look of a modern-day ice queen? Achieving platinum hair is a journey, not a sprint. It’s a transformation that requires meticulous planning, professional guidance (highly recommended!), and unwavering commitment to aftercare. Here’s the breakdown on how to get that coveted platinum hue:

The process boils down to this: lifting the natural pigment from your hair strands to the palest possible yellow, and then toning to neutralize any remaining warmth and achieve that cool, platinum shade. This usually involves multiple bleaching sessions, careful monitoring, and the use of professional-grade products. The key to success is to minimize damage during each step.

Understanding the Hair Coloring Process

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it’s crucial to understand the fundamentals of hair coloring. Hair’s natural color comes from melanin, a pigment residing in the hair shaft. To achieve platinum, we need to remove this melanin through a process called oxidation, which is what bleach does. The darker your natural hair color, the more melanin that needs to be removed, and the more demanding the process becomes. This is why those with darker starting colors often require multiple sessions and a higher volume developer.

The Bleaching Phase

This is the most critical and potentially damaging phase. The goal is to lift your hair to a level 9 or 10 yellow, which is the palest yellow possible. It’s vital to:

• Start with healthy hair: Damaged or over-processed hair will likely break or become extremely fragile during bleaching. Deep conditioning treatments are essential in the weeks leading up to your platinum transformation.
• Use high-quality bleach and developer: Opt for a professional-grade bleach designed for multiple applications and pair it with a low-volume developer (10 or 20 volume) to minimize damage. Avoid anything above 20 volume, especially if you’re bleaching at home.
• Section your hair carefully: This ensures even application and prevents missed spots.
• Apply the bleach strategically: Start with the roots, as they process faster due to the heat from your scalp. Avoid overlapping previously bleached sections.
• Monitor the process closely: Check your hair every 5-10 minutes. The ideal outcome is a pale yellow shade, similar to the inside of a banana peel.
• Rinse thoroughly: Remove all traces of bleach with a color-safe shampoo.

The Toning Phase

After bleaching, your hair will likely have some unwanted yellow or orange undertones. This is where toner comes in. Toner neutralizes these undertones to achieve that cool, platinum blonde.

• Choose the right toner: Select a toner specifically formulated for platinum blonde hair. Purple or blue-based toners are typically used to counteract yellow or orange tones.
• Apply the toner evenly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Monitor the development: Check the color every few minutes to prevent over-toning, which can result in overly ashy or even purple hair.
• Rinse thoroughly: Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

Maintaining Your Platinum Hair

Achieving platinum is only half the battle. Maintaining that icy hue requires a dedicated hair care routine.

• Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: Sulfates can strip the hair of its color and moisture.
• Incorporate purple shampoo and conditioner: These help to maintain the cool tone and prevent brassiness. Use them sparingly, as over-use can lead to a dull, purple cast.
• Deep condition regularly: Bleaching can leave your hair dry and brittle. Deep conditioning treatments replenish moisture and strengthen the hair.
• Use heat protectant: Minimize the use of heat styling tools, and always use a heat protectant spray before styling.
• Get regular trims: This removes split ends and keeps your hair looking healthy.
• Avoid chlorine: Chlorine can turn platinum hair green. Wear a swim cap when swimming or use a specialized swim shampoo.
• Consider Olaplex or similar bond-building treatments: These treatments help to repair and strengthen damaged hair bonds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about achieving and maintaining platinum hair.

1. Can I Get Platinum Hair at Home?

While technically possible, getting platinum hair at home is strongly discouraged, especially if you have dark hair or pre-existing damage. The risk of damage, uneven results, and banding (uneven color) is high. It’s always best to consult a professional stylist who can assess your hair’s condition and create a personalized plan.

2. How Long Does it Take to Get Platinum Hair?

The time it takes varies depending on your starting hair color, hair health, and the desired level of platinum. For dark hair, it can take multiple sessions spread out over several weeks or even months to minimize damage.

3. How Much Does it Cost to Get Platinum Hair?

The cost varies depending on the salon, stylist’s experience, and the complexity of the process. Expect to pay several hundred dollars for professional platinum hair. Subsequent touch-ups will also incur costs.

4. What Hair Types Can Go Platinum?

While theoretically any hair type can be bleached, fine or already damaged hair is more prone to breakage. Coarse or virgin hair can generally withstand the process better, but still requires careful attention.

5. How Can I Minimize Damage During Bleaching?

Using low-volume developer, incorporating bond-building treatments like Olaplex, and avoiding overlapping are all crucial for minimizing damage. Deep conditioning treatments before and after bleaching are also essential.

6. What Does “Toning” Actually Do?

Toning deposits pigment to neutralize unwanted undertones in bleached hair. It doesn’t lift color, but rather cancels out brassiness to achieve the desired cool tone.

7. What is the Difference Between Toner and Purple Shampoo?

Toner is a more intensive treatment that neutralizes significant undertones after bleaching. Purple shampoo is used for maintenance and to prevent brassiness from returning. It is a good idea to avoid purple shampoo for a couple of weeks after toning the hair.

8. How Often Should I Use Purple Shampoo?

Generally, once or twice a week is sufficient. Overuse can lead to a dull, purple cast.

9. How Do I Prevent My Platinum Hair From Turning Yellow?

Using purple shampoo and conditioner regularly, avoiding harsh sulfates, and protecting your hair from the sun and chlorine are key to preventing brassiness.

10. What Are the Best Deep Conditioning Treatments for Platinum Hair?

Look for deep conditioners that are specifically designed for color-treated or bleached hair. Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter can help to replenish moisture and repair damage.

11. How Do I Touch Up My Roots Without Damaging My Previously Bleached Hair?

Precision is key. Apply the bleach only to the new growth, avoiding overlap with previously bleached sections. Consider using a root touch-up kit specifically designed for blonde hair.

12. What If My Hair Starts to Break During Bleaching?

Stop immediately! Rinse the bleach out thoroughly and consult a professional stylist for advice. Your hair may need intensive conditioning treatments to repair the damage before attempting to bleach it again. If you notice any signs of significant damage or breakage, discontinue the process and seek professional assistance. Trying to push through can lead to severe hair damage and hair loss.