When it comes to going blonde, there are a ton of misconceptions. We've heard it all–from blonde hair not working for darker skin tones to bleach making your hair fall out. But one of the biggest hair coloring myths is that going blonde can destroy your curls. Don't get us wrong, hair color and bleach can take a toll on natural rizos, but it doesn't have to. The trick to healthy, colored hair is to take serious precaution. We spoke with celebrity stylist and Clairol color expert Shirley Gordon, who answered all of our questions about going blonde if you have naturally curly hair.
More from MamásLatinas: Going blonde? How to get the best color for your skin tone
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Can bleach make me lose my curl pattern?
Not necessarily. "Bleaching can only make you lose your curl pattern if the process is too strong," says Gordon. "Make sure your stylist really understands how to change the level of developer when it comes to going blonde but also keeping in mind the health of your curls. My go-to-tip: low developer and slow process. This will ensure your curl pattern will stay natural and healthy."
What should the process be like?
When it comes to keeping your curls healthy, coloring it gradually is key. "If you have dark hair and want to go blonde, you need to gradually lighten your hair color," says Gordon. "If you have virgin hair that has never been colored, you can go from dark to light in one session and the process should take around 4 hours before you see a significant change in hair color. If you already are a hair color veteran, I suggest you go in 2-3 times within 2 week periods to ensure your hair will not get damaged. Make sure to honestly communicate to your colorist your hair color history, that is our biggest indicator to prevent a hair color crisis.”
What kind of treatments should I be using?
"Protein treatments and deep conditioning hair masks should be rotated," says Gordon. "I recommend to my clients who have colored their hair, to use a hydrating deep conditioning mask once a week, and a protein treatment every other time they go to the salon."
What if I’m dying my hair at home?
If you’re going DIY-style, Gordon recommends Clairol Nice’n Easy ($8). "The 47 shades to choose from are natural looking shades that will leave your hair 100 percent gray-free and shiny,” she says. "Going back to the importance of conditioning, the box also comes with a miracle in a bottle, the CC Color Seal Cream, which adds shine and softness to curls. Depending on how thick and long your hair is, I would recommend 3-6 boxes."
Is there a way to go blonde that’s less damaging?
"If your hair is virgin, you can get a nice blonde using a permanent hair color, but most people need the help of bleach if they want a drastic change of color," says Gordon. "Balayage is a healthier alternative rather than completely going blonde because you wouldn’t be bleaching the entire head. Staying away from the root area is a way to avoid breakage of hair when bleaching.”
What kind of shampoos and conditioners should I be using?
"If your hair is colored, you should use colored treatment shampoos that promote moisture and safe protection for the color," says Gordon. "Purple shampoo is a great way to upkeep blonde or silver because it stops the color from being brassy." Try Drybar Blonde Ale Brightening Shampoo ($27).
Where does toner factor into all of this?
"Toner is what cancels and corrects hair color," says Gordon. "It gives you the desired look you’ve always dreamed of, whether that’s an ashy blonde, warm blonde, or cool blonde. If your stylist is experienced and has done the process before, you will be fine. Damage would only come into place if your hair was already previously damaged.”
Can going blonde and straightening my hair destroy my curls?
Gordon doesn’t recommend straightening or heat-styling on the regular if you’re going blonde and don’t want to lose your curls. "You should rotate, one week and rock your curly hair and then one week straighten. You can also get crafty and do non-heat styling like using a hair dryer and hot roller sets for a natural, softer tousled look, which is really in for the upcoming warmer months." Also, if you’re going to a Dominican salon, make sure to ask for a wash and roller set instead of having your hair directly blown out. It makes all the difference in the world.
