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How to Get My Hair Platinum Blonde: A Master Colorist’s Guide

So, you want to join the platinum club? Excellent choice! Achieving that coveted, icy blonde is a bold statement, but it’s not a decision to take lightly. It’s a journey, not a sprint, and requires careful planning, the right products, and a healthy dose of patience. Here’s the definitive guide: How to get your hair platinum blonde involves a multi-step process of lightening your hair to a very pale yellow, then toning it to remove any remaining brassiness and achieve that cool, platinum hue. This process is best left to a professional colorist due to the high risk of damage and uneven results, but if you’re determined to DIY, proceed with extreme caution and meticulous research.

Understanding the Platinum Blonde Transformation

Before you even think about bleach, it’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into. Platinum blonde requires removing almost all the natural pigment from your hair, which inevitably weakens the hair shaft. The lighter your starting color, the easier (and less damaging) the process will be. Those with dark brown or black hair face a more challenging road, potentially requiring multiple bleaching sessions.

Assessing Your Hair’s Health

This is paramount. Is your hair already dry, brittle, or damaged from previous coloring or heat styling? If so, you absolutely must prioritize restoring its health before even considering platinum. Deep conditioning treatments, protein masks, and minimizing heat styling are essential. Attempting to bleach already damaged hair is a recipe for breakage.

Professional vs. DIY: A Crucial Decision

Let’s be blunt: achieving truly platinum blonde at home is incredibly difficult and risky. A professional colorist has the expertise to assess your hair’s condition, choose the right products, and apply them with precision. They can also monitor the process and adjust the approach as needed. If you’re committed to DIY, be prepared for the possibility of uneven results, damage, and the need for professional correction down the line.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Platinum Perfection (with Extreme Caution)

If you’re determined to go it alone, here’s the roadmap, but remember: professional guidance is always recommended.

1. Strand Test: Your First and Most Important Step

Before applying bleach to your entire head, perform a strand test. This will reveal how your hair reacts to the bleach and toner, and help you determine the processing time needed. Choose a small, inconspicuous section of hair (underneath, near the nape of your neck) for this test.

2. Gathering Your Arsenal: The Right Products

High-Quality Bleach: Choose a bleach powder with a developer specifically designed for it. Opt for a lower volume developer (10 or 20) to minimize damage, even if it means multiple sessions. Brands like Wella Blondor or Schwarzkopf BlondMe are often recommended.
Developer: The volume of the developer determines the lifting power. 10 volume lifts 1-2 levels, 20 volume lifts 2-3 levels, and 30 volume lifts 3-4 levels. Start with 20 volume and only move up if necessary and if your hair can handle it.
Toner: This neutralizes unwanted brassy tones and creates the platinum shade. Wella T18 (White Lady) and T14 (Pale Ash Blonde) are popular choices, but consult with a professional or do thorough research to find the best toner for your hair’s undertones.
Purple Shampoo and Conditioner: These are essential for maintaining your platinum blonde and preventing brassiness.
Deep Conditioner: Invest in a high-quality deep conditioner to use after bleaching and toning.
Bond Builders: Products like Olaplex No. 1 and No. 2 (used during the bleaching process) and No. 3 (used at home) help to repair and strengthen damaged hair bonds.
Protective Gear: Gloves, a mixing bowl, an applicator brush, and a timer are essential.
Coconut Oil: Applying coconut oil to your hair the night before bleaching can help protect it from damage.

3. The Bleaching Process: Precision is Key

Mix the bleach and developer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a non-metallic bowl and applicator brush.
Apply the bleach evenly, starting at the roots. The roots process faster because they’re closer to your scalp’s heat. Work quickly and efficiently to ensure even coverage.
Monitor the color closely. Check the strand test to determine the processing time. You’re aiming for a pale yellow, like the inside of a banana peel.
Rinse thoroughly with cool water. Make sure all the bleach is removed.
Apply Olaplex No. 2 (if using) and leave it on for the recommended time.
Shampoo and condition your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.

4. Toning: Achieving the Platinum Hue

Mix the toner and developer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Apply the toner evenly to damp hair.
Monitor the color closely. Toning usually takes 15-30 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Apply a deep conditioner and leave it on for the recommended time.

5. Post-Bleach Care: Maintaining Your Platinum

Use purple shampoo and conditioner regularly to prevent brassiness.
Avoid heat styling as much as possible.
Use heat protectant spray when you do use heat styling tools.
Deep condition your hair regularly.
Get regular trims to prevent split ends.
Consider using a protein treatment every few weeks to strengthen your hair.

Platinum Blonde FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to get platinum blonde hair?

The time it takes varies depending on your starting hair color, hair health, and the products used. It can take anywhere from one session to multiple sessions spread out over several weeks to achieve platinum blonde.

2. Can I get platinum blonde hair in one session?

Potentially, if your hair is already light blonde or has been previously lightened. Darker hair will almost certainly require multiple bleaching sessions to avoid excessive damage.

3. What is the best bleach for platinum blonde hair?

Professional-grade bleaches like Wella Blondor or Schwarzkopf BlondMe are generally considered the best, as they offer more control and predictable results. Paired with a low-volume developer (10 or 20), they minimize damage.

4. What volume developer should I use for platinum blonde?

Start with 20 volume. If your hair lifts easily, you can stick with 20. If it’s resistant, you might consider 30, but proceed with extreme caution and monitor your hair closely.

5. How do I avoid brassy tones when going platinum blonde?

Toner is your best friend. Choose a toner that neutralizes yellow and orange tones. Purple shampoo and conditioner are also essential for maintaining the cool platinum hue.

6. What toner is best for platinum blonde hair?

Wella T18 (White Lady) and T14 (Pale Ash Blonde) are popular choices, but the best toner for you depends on your hair’s specific undertones. Consult with a professional for personalized recommendations.

7. How often should I use purple shampoo on platinum blonde hair?

Typically, once or twice a week is sufficient, but adjust based on your hair’s needs. Overuse can lead to a purple tint.

8. How do I fix uneven platinum blonde hair?

This is where professional help is often necessary. A colorist can assess the situation and correct the unevenness with targeted bleaching or toning.

9. Can I bleach my hair again if it’s not light enough after the first time?

Yes, but wait at least 2-3 weeks between bleaching sessions to allow your hair to recover. Focus on deep conditioning treatments during this time.

10. What are the signs of damaged hair after bleaching?

Signs of damage include excessive dryness, brittleness, breakage, split ends, and a gummy or stretchy texture when wet.

11. How can I repair damaged hair after bleaching?

Deep conditioning treatments, protein masks, bond builders (like Olaplex), and minimizing heat styling are crucial for repairing damaged hair.

12. How much does it cost to get platinum blonde hair at a salon?

The cost varies depending on your location, the salon’s reputation, and the length and thickness of your hair. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more.