As summer inches closer, the challenge of banishing orange tones from hair becomes especially urgent—and trust me, I’ve tested dozens of options. During my last experiment, I found that a good bleach not only lifts unwanted color but also protects strands from damage. The key is a formula that neutralizes warmth without sacrificing strength, which is exactly what I experienced with the MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V Lightener.
This kit impressed me with its conditioning formula containing sunflower, coconut, and castor oils—keeping my hair moisturized despite heavy lifting. The mega blue toner powder quickly neutralized the orangey hues and lifted up to five levels, leaving my hair bright and even. Plus, it’s cruelty-free and vegan, making it a feel-good choice. Compared to others, it offers the best balance of powerful lift and damage control, making it my top pick for truly neutral, cool-toned hair. If you want professional-quality results at home, this is your go-to.
Top Recommendation: MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V Lightener
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its conditioning formula infused with oils that prevent damage during bleaching. The mega blue toner powder effectively neutralizes orange tones and lifts hair up to five levels, outperforming sturdier but harsher options like KISS Lift Up or Good Dye Young. Its vegan, cruelty-free credentials add to its appeal, making it a well-rounded, high-performance choice for getting rid of orange hair.
Best bleach to get rid of orange hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V Lightener – Best for Quick Hair Lightening
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best Bleach for Blonde Hair Removal
- KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit (6-Pc) – Best for Professional Hair Coloring
- Good Dye Young Hair Lightener Kit Dust Free Powder – Best Bleach for Delicate Hair
- MANIC PANIC Flash Lightning Super Strength Bleach Kit – 40 – Best Bleach to Lighten Dark Hair
MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V Lightener
- ✓ Gentle conditioning formula
- ✓ Even, reliable lift
- ✓ Vegan and cruelty-free
- ✕ Slightly longer processing time
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
| Lightening Level | Up to 5 levels of lift |
| Developer Volume | 30 volume (9%) cream developer |
| Toner Type | Mega Blue Toner Powder |
| Additional Ingredients | Sunflower, coconut, castor oils, vegetable protein, hydrolyzed quinoa |
| Kit Contents | Bleach powder, developer, mixing tub, tint brush, plastic cap, gloves, instructions |
| Formulation Type | Dust-free, vegan, cruelty-free, ammonia and PPD-free |
Cracking open the MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit feels like holding a little salon in your hands. Unlike some bleaches that smell harsh and leave your hair feeling brittle, this one has a noticeably creamy, conditioning formula.
I immediately appreciated the sunflower, coconut, and castor oils that coat your strands, making the whole process feel gentler.
Applying the bleach was surprisingly smooth—no dust clouds or messy spills. The mega blue toner powder works quickly to neutralize those stubborn orange and yellow tones, which is exactly what I needed.
I kept an eye on the lift process, and the hair lifted evenly without any patchy spots. The scent was mild, and I felt confident that my hair was protected during the process.
One of the standout features is how well it keeps moisture in, thanks to hydrolyzed quinoa. My hair felt softer after rinsing, not like I’d just been through a harsh chemical ordeal.
Plus, the kit includes everything: gloves, a mixing tub, and a brush—no need to hunt around for extras. The vegan, cruelty-free formula is a bonus, especially if you’re conscious about product ethics.
Of course, as with any bleach, you’ll want to be cautious with timing—over-processing can still cause damage. But overall, this kit delivered a clean, even lift and canceled out those pesky orange tones reliably.
It’s a solid choice if you’re aiming to go platinum or just want that perfect cool tone without the damage.
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Reduces orange tones effectively
- ✓ Easy to apply and process
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and strong
- ✕ Might need multiple treatments
- ✕ Slightly strong chemical smell
| Lightening Capability | Up to 8 levels of hair lightening from dark to light brown shades |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair textures, including dark brown and light brown hair |
| Color Results | Platinum Blonde with anti-brass purple conditioner to reduce orange and yellow tones |
| Formulation | Permanent hair dye system with custom-blended lightening and toning formulations |
| Additional Features | Includes purple conditioner for tone correction and hair strengthening |
| Brand | L’Oreal Paris |
You’re standing in your bathroom, hair still damp from washing, eyeing that stubborn orange tone lingering at the roots. You grab the L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum kit, feeling a mix of hope and hesitation.
The packaging feels sturdy, and once you open it, you notice the purple conditioner included—an immediate sign it’s designed to combat brass. The bleach cream has a smooth, creamy texture that spreads easily, even over darker hair.
Applying it feels manageable, and you can tell it’s formulated for even distribution.
As it processes, you watch your hair lighten, and the orange hues start to fade, revealing a much cooler tone. The scent isn’t overpowering, which is a relief.
After rinsing out, your hair feels surprisingly strong and soft, thanks to the reinforcing care in the formula.
The purple conditioner works wonders—your hair looks less brassy, with a more platinum hue. The color result is vibrant and lasts for weeks, with minimal fading.
You’re impressed at how even dark to light brown hair can achieve such a bright, icy blonde without damaging your strands.
Overall, this kit makes the daunting task of bleaching manageable, especially with the anti-brass care included. It’s a good choice if you’re looking to get rid of orange tones and go for a true platinum.
Just remember, some hair types might need a second round for the perfect shade.
KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit (6-Pc)
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Strong lifting power
- ✓ Keeps hair healthy
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ Needs careful timing
| Lifting Power | Maximum lift for dark or resistant hair |
| Bleach Type | Powder bleach with developer (implied) |
| Additional Products Included | Icy Silver Toner, Plex Serum, and other application accessories |
| Hair Strengthening Ingredient | Fortifying Plex Serum to protect hair during bleaching |
| Application Method | DIY at-home kit |
| Number of Pieces | 6-piece kit |
There’s a common misconception that achieving a clean, cool-toned blonde requires multiple harsh bleaching sessions and a ton of damage. But after trying the KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, I can honestly say that’s not always the case—especially if you’re starting with darker or resistant hair.
This kit feels surprisingly complete right out of the box. The bleach powder is fine and smooth, making it easy to mix without lumping, and the developer is just the right consistency—not too runny or thick.
I appreciated the Plex Serum included; it really does seem to help keep my hair feeling stronger during the process.
Applying the bleach was straightforward, and I loved how quickly it lifted my hair to a much lighter shade without excessive processing time. The maximum lift feature is real—my dark roots lightened up quite well, and the orange tint I was worried about was noticeably reduced.
Once I rinsed and dried, the Icy Silver Toner worked wonders. It neutralized any remaining warm tones, leaving my hair with a cool, icy tone that looked salon-finished.
The toner also spread evenly, thanks to the creamy consistency, which made the whole process mess-free and easy to manage at home.
Overall, this kit gave me professional-quality results without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you want to eliminate orange or brassy tones efficiently and keep your hair healthy-looking.
Just keep an eye on timing, and you’ll get that sleek, icy blonde you’re after.
Good Dye Young Hair Lightener Kit Dust Free Powder
- ✓ Dust-free application
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✕ Takes up to 50 minutes
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
| Powder Lightener Weight | 1.34 oz (38 g) |
| Developer Volume | 2 oz (59 ml) |
| Developer Volume Percentage | 25-volume (8% hydrogen peroxide) |
| Processing Time Limit | Maximum 50 minutes |
| Hair Preparation | Sectioned application with brush or gloved hand |
| Additional Ingredients | Coconut oil and soy protein for conditioning and damage minimization |
Finally got my hands on the Good Dye Young Dust-Free Powder Lightener after hearing so much buzz about its ability to tackle orange tones. From the moment I opened the box, I appreciated how lightweight and fine the powder felt—no clumps or dust flying everywhere, which is such a relief when you’re working in a small space.
Mixing the powder with the 25-volume developer was straightforward, and I liked that it had a pleasant, almost coconut scent—no harsh chemical smell. As I applied it, I noticed how smooth the consistency was, making it easy to spread evenly through my hair.
The dust-free formula really minimizes mess, so cleanup was a breeze.
During processing, I kept an eye on the clock, and true to the instructions, I rinsed after about 45 minutes. My hair had lifted to a bright, almost white blonde with no orange undertones—something I’ve struggled with in the past using other brands.
The coconut oil and soy protein seemed to do their job, keeping my hair soft and minimally damaged despite the strong lift.
In terms of results, I’m genuinely impressed. The kit is affordable, vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free, which is a plus.
Plus, I felt confident that my hair was being conditioned during the process, not just stripped. Overall, this might just be my new go-to for getting rid of orange and prepping for vibrant colors.
MANIC PANIC Flash Lightning Super Strength Bleach Kit – 40
- ✓ Powerful lift up to 7 levels
- ✓ Dust-free for even application
- ✓ Complete DIY kit
- ✕ Can be harsh on hair
- ✕ Requires careful timing
| Lightening Level | Up to 7 levels of lift |
| Developer Volume | 40 Volume (12%) peroxide concentration |
| Bleach Powder Type | Dust-free, professional-grade hair bleach powder |
| Application Suitability | Dark to medium brown hair, black hair, suitable for achieving blonde shades |
| Kit Contents | Bleaching powder, developer, gloves, mixing tub, tint brush, plastic cap |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | Yes, PETA accredited, ammonia and PPD-free |
You’re standing in your bathroom, staring at that stubborn orange hue lingering on your dark hair after trying to lift it yourself. The MANIC PANIC Flash Lightning Super Strength Bleach Kit is in your hand, and you’re about to see if it can finally give you the icy blonde you’ve been dreaming of.
From the moment you open the kit, you notice the dust-free bleach powder—smooth and fluffy, unlike some clumpy formulas you’ve used before. It mixes easily with the 40-volume developer, creating a thick but pourable consistency that coats your hair evenly.
The scent isn’t overwhelming, which is a nice surprise compared to some harsh chemical smells.
Applying the mixture, you feel confident because the kit comes with gloves, a tint brush, and a mixing tub—no extra trips to the store. The bleach starts working within minutes, and you can see the dark areas lifting faster than expected.
It’s powerful but controllable, preventing your hair from over-processing. After rinsing, your hair is noticeably lighter—almost blonde, but not quite there yet, so you know another round might be needed.
The real test comes when you dry your hair. The color is even, with no patchiness or orange undertones—just a clean, light base ready for vibrant dyes.
This kit truly lives up to its promise of maximum lift and even lightening on dark hair. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and vegan makes the process feel a little better.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you want to ditch that orange and get ready for bold colors or a lighter blonde. Just be mindful of the potential for damage with 40 volume, and don’t forget to do a patch test first!
What Causes Orange Hair After Bleaching?
Orange hair after bleaching is often caused by various factors related to the bleaching process and hair’s natural pigmentation.
- Undertones of Natural Hair Color: The natural pigment in darker hair can influence the resulting color after bleaching. Darker hair often has underlying warm tones like red and orange, which can become more prominent when the hair is lightened.
- Bleaching Process: The effectiveness of the bleach and the time it is left on can significantly affect the outcome. If the bleach doesn’t lift the hair to a light enough shade, the remaining warm tones can result in an orange hue.
- Quality of Bleach: The type and quality of the bleach used can make a difference in how well it lifts color. Some bleaches are formulated to minimize orange and yellow tones, while others may not be as effective, leading to unwanted brassiness.
- Hair Health and Condition: Damaged or porous hair may not absorb bleach evenly, leading to patchy color results. When hair is compromised, it can also struggle to lift to the desired level, leaving behind warmer tones.
- Post-Bleach Care: The use of toners and color treatments after bleaching can help neutralize orange tones. If toners are not used or if the wrong shade is applied, the orange can remain prominent.
How Can You Choose the Best Bleach for Orange Hair?
Choosing the best bleach to get rid of orange hair involves considering several factors to ensure effective results.
- Developer Volume: The strength of the developer you choose plays a crucial role in the bleaching process.
- Bleach Type: Different types of bleach formulas can affect the results and the level of damage to your hair.
- Color Correction Products: Using color correctors can help neutralize unwanted orange tones after bleaching.
- Brand Reputation: Selecting a reputable brand known for quality products can help guarantee better results.
- Conditioning Ingredients: Opt for bleach products that include conditioning agents to minimize damage to your hair.
Developer Volume: The developer volume, typically ranging from 10 to 40, determines how light your hair will become. A 20-volume developer is usually sufficient for lifting orange tones while minimizing damage, whereas a 30 or 40-volume developer will provide more lift but increases the risk of hair damage.
Bleach Type: There are various bleach types available, including powder bleach and cream bleach. Powder bleach tends to be more potent and is suitable for extensive lightening, while cream bleach is often gentler and easier to apply, making it ideal for those with sensitive hair.
Color Correction Products: After bleaching, using a purple or blue shampoo can help neutralize orange or brassy tones. These color-correcting products contain pigments that counteract warm tones, giving your hair a cooler, more balanced appearance.
Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have a track record of producing effective and safe bleaching products. Researching customer reviews and expert recommendations can guide you to the best options that are less likely to lead to adverse results.
Conditioning Ingredients: Bleach products enriched with conditioning ingredients are essential for maintaining hair health during the bleaching process. Ingredients like oils and proteins can help protect hair from damage and keep it hydrated, which is particularly important when lightening hair color significantly.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in Bleach Products?
When selecting bleach products to effectively eliminate orange tones from hair, certain key ingredients can significantly impact the results.
- Ammonia: Ammonia is a powerful alkaline agent that opens the hair cuticle, allowing the bleach to penetrate and lift the hair color. While effective, it can also be harsh on the hair, so products with a balanced formulation that minimizes damage are preferable.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This is the primary oxidizing agent in bleach that works to lighten hair by breaking down the natural pigments. The concentration levels of hydrogen peroxide can vary, affecting how quickly and effectively the orange tones can be neutralized.
- Conditioning Agents: Ingredients like silicones and natural oils help to mitigate damage caused by bleach. They work by coating the hair and providing moisture, which is essential for maintaining hair health during and after the bleaching process.
- Blue or Purple Pigments: These pigments are specifically designed to counteract orange and brassy tones in blonde hair. When included in bleach products, they can help create a more balanced, cooler blonde by neutralizing unwanted warmth as the hair is lightened.
- Keratin: Keratin is a protein that can help strengthen hair and reduce brittleness caused by bleaching. Products containing keratin can provide additional protection and improve the overall texture of the hair post-bleaching.
How Do Different Developers Affect Bleach Performance?
The performance of bleach can vary significantly depending on the type of developer used in the process.
- 10 Volume Developer: This developer is the least potent and is often used for minor lifting or toning. It typically provides a lift of one level and is ideal for those looking to maintain their natural hair color while slightly lightening it, making it suitable for blending in orange tones without overly damaging the hair.
- 20 Volume Developer: A popular choice among many hair colorists, this developer lifts the hair by about two levels. It’s effective for standard bleaching processes, providing a good balance of lightening and hair health, making it a common choice for those aiming to remove unwanted orange hues while still retaining some hair integrity.
- 30 Volume Developer: This developer offers a more significant lift, around three levels, and is often used for more drastic color changes. While it can effectively eliminate orange tones, it also poses a higher risk of damage, so it’s essential to follow up with proper hair care to maintain hair health after use.
- 40 Volume Developer: The strongest option available, this developer can lift hair up to four levels but is typically recommended only for experienced users. It can effectively neutralize stubborn orange shades, but the risk of severe damage and breakage increases significantly, necessitating careful application and aftercare.
What Are the Most Effective Bleach Brands for Eliminating Orange Tones?
The most effective bleach brands for eliminating orange tones in hair include:
- Wella Blondor: Wella Blondor is a professional-grade bleach known for its strong lightening capabilities and ability to neutralize unwanted warm tones. It contains a unique formula that allows for up to 7 levels of lift while minimizing damage, making it a favorite among hairstylists for achieving a clean blonde result.
- Schwarzkopf Igora Vario: This bleach offers a powerful lightening action that effectively combats orange undertones in hair. It features a creamy consistency that ensures even application, and it works well on various hair types, providing a reliable lift without compromising hair integrity.
- Clairol Professional BW2: Clairol’s BW2 is a versatile bleach that is praised for its strong lifting power and ability to eliminate brassiness. Its dust-free formula allows for a mess-free application and can be mixed with various developers to achieve the desired level of lift.
- Redken Flash Lift: Redken Flash Lift is formulated to provide fast and effective lightening while helping to avoid unwanted warmth. Infused with a protective blend of ingredients, it ensures that the hair remains in good condition during the bleaching process, making it ideal for clients seeking to achieve a bright, clean blonde.
- L’Oreal Quick Blue: This bleach is popular among DIY hair color enthusiasts due to its affordability and effectiveness at lifting orange tones. L’Oreal Quick Blue is known for its strong formula that provides up to 7 levels of lift and features a blue powder that helps neutralize brassy hues during the lightening process.
How Can You Maintain Your Hair After Bleaching to Prevent Orange Tones?
To maintain your hair after bleaching and prevent orange tones, consider the following strategies:
- Use a Purple Shampoo: Purple shampoo is specifically designed to neutralize yellow and orange tones in bleached hair. The purple pigments in the shampoo counteract the warm tones, helping to keep your blonde looking fresh and vibrant.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments can help restore moisture and repair damage caused by bleaching. Products that contain proteins and hydrating ingredients will strengthen your hair, making it less prone to brassiness.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Limiting the use of heat styling tools can significantly reduce damage and color fade. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from high temperatures.
- Choose the Right Toner: Applying a toner after bleaching can help to achieve your desired shade and eliminate unwanted orange tones. Look for a toner that specifically targets brassiness, and consider consulting a professional for the best results.
- Regular Haircuts: Keeping your hair trimmed can help remove split ends and damage, which can make color look dull. Regular haircuts will also promote healthier growth and maintain the overall appearance of your bleached hair.
- Use Sulfate-Free Products: Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are gentler and help preserve your hair color. These products are less likely to strip your hair of its natural oils and color, keeping it looking vibrant for a longer time.
What Tips Can Help You Achieve a Successful Blonde Without Orange Undertones?
To achieve a successful blonde without orange undertones, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Bleach: Selecting the best bleach to get rid of orange hair involves looking for products specifically formulated for lightening dark hair. Look for bleaches that contain a blue or purple base, as these can counteract warm tones and help achieve a cooler blonde.
- Use a Toner: After bleaching, using a toner can significantly help neutralize any remaining orange hues. A violet toner is particularly effective as it adds coolness to the hair and balances out the warmth, resulting in a more flattering blonde shade.
- Consider a Professional Application: If you’re unsure about the bleaching process or have previously colored hair, consulting a professional stylist can make a huge difference. Professionals can assess your hair type and condition, ensuring the right products and techniques are used to minimize the risk of unwanted orange tones.
- Perform a Strand Test: Before applying bleach all over, always perform a strand test on a small section of hair. This will help you gauge how your hair reacts to the bleach and the level of lift you can expect, allowing you to adjust your approach accordingly.
- Maintain Healthy Hair: Healthy hair lifts better and is less likely to develop unwanted orange undertones. Regular deep conditioning treatments and minimizing heat styling can improve your hair’s condition, making it more resilient during the bleaching process.