Our Style Executive, Georgie, turned this brown box dye into stunning golden blonde in just 8 hours.

The Process

Before we do our client's hair we always have a consultation. This is to discuss what our client wants, find out about our client's hair history and any damage that might have occurred. We always do a patch test to ensure the client doesn't have an adverse reaction to any of our products. When lightening we may also do a strand test to make sure the hair is healthy enough to bleach. In this case, both the patch test and strand test came back with no reaction so we went ahead with the appointment

This was only possible due to the fact Georgie's client had a healthy head of hair that was strong enough to withstand the brown to blonde lightening process. During the 8 hour appointment of bleaching and toning, Olaplex was used to maintain as much strength possible.

Aftercare is just as important as taking care during the colouring. To retain a healthy blonde, we always recommend the Olaplex aftercare products. Blondes may also want a purple shampoo to keep the brassy tones at bay.

The difference between bleaching healthy and unhealthy hair

Bleaching healthy hair (such as Georgie's client) means it is generally easier and quicker to achieve blonde. If your hair has been bleached and dyed multiple times before, it is likely to to be unhealthy and will be weak.

During bleaching, your hair cuticles expand and the natural pigments dissolve, removing the colour and leaving the bright bleached platinum tone. If your hair is unhealthy, it will not survive the bleaching and it will break off.

Bleaching is never good for your hair. But if it is done correctly at a salon, it shouldn't cause damage. We always use a bonding treatment with bleach (such as Olaplex or BondPro+) to keep your hair strong and healthy.

If we refuse to use bleach, it is for the good of your hair! We don't want anyone to walk out of our salon with breakage.

How much did it cost?

The particular colour correction required Georgie to have an entire day dedicated to doing whatever was needed, so it was charged at an hourly rate. The total cost of this service was £517 (including the correct aftercare products to maintain the results).

Can I go blonde?

No two heads of hair are the same. What works for one client will frazzle another clients hair and the only way we can tell is by having a consultation and looking at your hair. It all depends on your hair's history, previous dyes (including any semi-permanent dyes), products used, styling/heat and hair type.

Sometimes it can take weeks, months or years to achieve the perfect blonde (particularly if going platinum) and sometimes it can take 8 hours. We don't say it'll take more than one session just to take your money, it's because your hair can only handle so much before breaking - and we don't want to hurt your hair!

The only way to find out if you can go from brown to blonde safely is by having a consultation with us. Our consultations are completely free with no obligation to book! Call us on 01392 499162 to book in a consultation with one of our colour experts.

The Takeaway:

• All hair reacts to bleach differently - only a qualified Stylist can bleach hair safely.
• There's no magic formula - some clients will take hours to go blonde, some will take months.
• Aftercare is important to retain a perfect blonde
• Book in for a consultation to find out if blonde is possible for you