If you’re thinking of trading in your dark and luscious locks for blond waves, there are things you should know before you dive right in. Whether you want to go completely blond or you love the balayage look, going slow keeps your hair healthy. Many clients are under the impression that since they’re going to a professional, the process of going blond can be done in just one visit. But it’s not as simple or quick as spreading the color all over your hair. We need to ensure your hair is healthy, too, so it can hold onto your beautiful new color. Even the most experienced colorists will tell you that in order to get those desirable blond shades, it takes several appointments, constant upkeep, and — above all — patience. At , we’re here to make sure you have healthy, beautiful hair every step of the way. The goal is to limit any damage to your locks and transition slowly so we achieve the exact color you have your sights set on.
In this helpful guide, we’ll show you the process it takes to lighten up your locks. We’ll also cover maintenance tips so you know exactly what to expect along the way.
Are You Ready for the Light Side?
Here are a few important topics to fill yourself in on if you’re truly ready to commit to becoming a blond.
Time:Be prepared for several appointments and several hours of time for each appointment. You’ll need to be in the salon every 4-6 weeks as you begin the journey. Never trust a colorist who claims they can take your hair from very dark to light in just one session! Do it right, plan ahead, and have a consultation at the salon to let them know your desires to go from dark to light. We will create a personalized plan just for you.
Defending Your Hair from Damage: Unfortunately, going lighter calls for at least some type of damage to your hair. But if you start with healthy hair and go slowly, we will minimize much of the damage. Bottom line, if you have any type of color on your hair, you will have to use bleach to go lighter. This is why it’s SO important to gradually lighten when you’re going from one extreme to another. If your hair is already damaged, ask your stylist professional their thoughts. Trust their opinions. If your heart is set on light color, a professional colorist can help you heal your hair as the first step of your journey.
Money: Be aware, being blond isn’t cheap! It’s a high maintenance lifestyle that isn’t right for everyone. Keep in mind your finances and decide if you’re ready to commit to the added expenses. Between several initial highlight appointments every 4-6 weeks, touch-ups every 5-10 weeks, and finally partial highlights and full highlights every so often, you need to be committed. You’ll also need to invest in quality products to keep your blond hair looking its best.
Be Patient and Trust the Process of Going Blond
As you know, the lightening process takes time. It’s important to have clear communication and patience with your stylist. Be aware that you may have to live with an “in-between” color for a few weeks while your hair is transitioning. Dark hair lifts warmer tones, so you may have an “ash” blond until you’re closer to the lightest blond shade you want. However, we will ensure the in-between” color is still stunning before you step foot out of our salon! Your hair needs time to relax and breathe in between sessions, and professionals can help you love the in-between time nearly as much as the end goal.
Also, if your hair has never been colored before you will likely experience much quicker results. You could be blond in just two or three visits.
Reaching the Perfect Shade: What to Expect
Before Your Visit: It’s never too early to prepare. Start using high-quality shampoo and conditioner on your hair. Make sure your hair is very clean prior to your first visit so that your stylist can see your true color. Pro tip: Dirty hair with oils and build up can look darker than it actually is.
First Visit: Your stylist will artistically choose which pieces to lighten and will do highlights all over your head. Don’t worry, it won’t be “chunky” or sectioned off, but you will still have sections of your previous color left. If your hair is very dark or has years of box color on it your stylist may choose to strip the color by doing a removal process before the highlights. This first visit may also be more of a consultation so you and your stylist can learn about your hair and agree on the right process.
Second, Third, and Subsequent Visits: Your hair will continue to be strategically highlighted and lighten each and every visit. Professionals will color your hair in stages so you don’t feel like you have to rush to the end. Each gradual coloring appointment keeps your hair healthier than faster sessions that could chemically burn and dry out your hair beyond repair. Once the goal color is achieved, you will schedule touch-ups for a while. You can also experiment with different hues of blond or lowlights.
Now What? How to Maintain Your Blond Look
After investing all of that time, money, patience, you’ll want to take care of your new blond locks. Here are some options to keep your locks fresh, blond, and strong:
Request a Glaze: Pop into the salon for a clear glaze. It helps tone and seal in color for an extra month or two of shine. It also makes hair softer and keeps the brassy colors away.
Invest in the Right Products: High-quality products really do make all the difference. Deep condition at least once a week to keep your hair healthy. Look into products like Kérastase’s Blond Absolu line that are tailor-made for protecting light locks through shampoos, conditioners, and creams.
Wash Your Hair Less Frequently: Make your color last longer by washing your hair less. Instead, use dry shampoo in-between full washes.
Turn Down the Heat: Blond hair is very fragile. Use caution when using heat tools, and don’t overdo it!
Deseo Salon & BlowDry in Denver loves helping clients transform their hair. We understand that you want incredible results, beautiful shades, and luxury service. Let us help you on your journey to lighter hair to get it done right the first time around!Contact us today for more information or book an appointment with one of our professional stylists.
