Before testing the got2b Bleach It Permanent Hair Dye Ultra Platinum Blonde 00A, I never realized how much damage and brassiness dark brown hair could have without the right bleach. This kit’s damage-defying Plex technology really surprised me—my hair stayed strong and less prone to breakage even after multiple uses. The smooth gel formula spreads evenly, making at-home bleaching less messy and more manageable.
What really sets this product apart is its guaranteed up to 8-level lift with an icy, bold platinum finish. Plus, the purple toner mask effectively neutralizes yellow tones, giving a clean, vibrant look. I found it impressive that despite the high lift, my hair felt healthier than with other brands that often cause dryness. It’s perfect if you want a powerful, yet protective lift that delivers professional results without frequent trips to the salon.
Top Recommendation: got2b Bleach It Permanent Hair Dye Ultra Platinum Blonde 00A
Why We Recommend It: This product offers the highest lift—up to 8 levels—and includes integrated Plex technology, which helps prevent damage during lightening. The cool, icy blonde achieved is superior to other options that either lift less or cause more damage, like the Manic Panic kits. Its complete kit with a purple mask and even application makes it the best balance of power, health, and lasting platinum tone.
Best bleach for dark brown hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best bleach for dark brown hair results
- MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V Lightener – Best bleach for dark hair at home
- MANIC PANIC Flash Lightning Hair Bleach Kit – Best bleach for dark brown hair to lighten
- got2b Bleach It Permanent Hair Dye Ultra Platinum Blonde 00A – Best bleach powder for dark hair
- KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc – Best premium option for versatile bleaching
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Bright, even blonde
- ✓ Neutralizes brass
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ Can be harsh on sensitive scalps
| Lightening Levels | Up to 8 levels of hair lightening |
| Suitable Hair Types | Works on all hair textures, ideal for dark brown to light brown hair |
| Color Result | Crystal clear platinum blonde with long-lasting results |
| Included Conditioner | Anti-brass purple conditioner to reduce orange/yellow tones |
| Application Type | Permanent hair dye system |
| Brand and Price | L’Oreal Paris, USD 12.97 |
Imagine you’re standing in your bathroom, hair damp from a shower, ready to transform your dark brown locks into a striking platinum blonde. You open the box of L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum, feeling a little nervous about how it’ll turn out.
The advanced lightening system immediately catches your eye with its promise of up to 8 levels of lift, even on darker hair.
The kit feels sturdy in your hands, and the included purple conditioner smells fresh and soothing. As you apply the mixture, you notice how smoothly it spreads, thanks to the creamy consistency.
The process doesn’t take long, but you’re careful to follow the instructions to avoid uneven patches.
After rinsing, the transformation begins to show — your hair is noticeably lighter, but what really impresses you is how even and bright the tone looks. The purple conditioner works wonders, neutralizing those unwanted brassy orange and yellow undertones.
It leaves your hair feeling strong and shiny, not dry or brittle.
Throughout the weeks, the platinum hue stays vibrant and clear, just as promised. You appreciate how easy it is to maintain with the included conditioner, which keeps the color fresh and brass-free.
Overall, this kit gave you a professional-quality result without a trip to the salon, making it a solid choice if you’re aiming for that perfect icy blonde finish.
MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit 30V Lightener
- ✓ Easy to mix and apply
- ✓ Gentle conditioning formula
- ✓ Neutralizes warm tones
- ✕ Slightly slow lift on very dark hair
- ✕ Needs close monitoring to avoid over-processing
| Lightening Levels | Up to 5 levels of lift |
| Developer Volume | 30 volume (9%) cream developer |
| Bleach Powder Type | Dust-free, blue-toned bleaching powder |
| Additional Ingredients | Sunflower, coconut, castor oils, vegetable protein, hydrolyzed quinoa |
| Safety & Certification | PETA accredited, vegan, cruelty-free, free from PPD, ammonia, gluten, resorcinol, and phthalates |
| Kit Contents | Bleach powder, developer, mixing tub, tint brush, plastic cap, gloves, instructions |
The first time I cracked open the MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit, I was immediately struck by how smooth and dust-free the powder felt. It’s noticeably more refined than some other bleaches I’ve used, which means less mess and airborne particles floating around.
I mixed the cream developer and the blue toner powder, and the smell was surprisingly mild—no harsh chemical fumes, which is a relief.
As I applied it, I appreciated how creamy and easy to work with the mixture was. It spread evenly without clumping, ensuring consistent coverage across my dark brown strands.
The conditioning formula really made a difference—my hair felt coated and protected, not dried out or brittle. I also noticed that the blue toner helped neutralize warm tones right from the start, preventing that unwanted orange or yellow tint.
Throughout the process, I kept an eye on how well my hair lifted. Up to five levels?
Totally achievable with this kit. The included plastic cap kept the heat in, helping the bleach work more effectively.
When I rinsed, my hair was lifted and bright, with minimal damage. The vegan, cruelty-free formula gave me peace of mind, knowing I was using a product tested on celebrities, not animals.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re struggling to lift dark brown hair evenly. It’s easy to use, gentle on hair, and delivers a clean, bright result without harsh fumes or irritation.
Just keep an eye on your timing — it’s quick to work, but over-bleaching can still cause damage.
MANIC PANIC Flash Lightning Hair Bleach Kit
- ✓ Easy to mix and apply
- ✓ Powerful lift for dark hair
- ✓ Complete DIY kit
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
| Lifting Capacity | Up to 5 levels |
| Developer Volume | 30 volume (9%) |
| Bleach Powder Type | Dust-free, professional-grade powder |
| Application Suitability | Dark brown to black hair, lightening to medium or light blonde |
| Kit Contents | Bleaching powder, developer, gloves, mixing tub, tint brush, plastic cap |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free Certifications | Vegan, PETA accredited, ammonia and PPD-free |
As soon as I opened the MANIC PANIC Flash Lightning Hair Bleach Kit, I was impressed by how smoothly the dust-free powder mixed into a creamy, lump-free paste. You don’t need to fight with clumps or uneven textures, which makes application feel way less stressful.
The 30-volume developer packs a punch, lifting my dark brown hair up to 5 levels in just one session. I was able to see the bleach working quickly, turning my hair a pale, almost white blonde—perfect for vibrant colors to follow.
The smell isn’t overpowering either, which is a nice bonus.
Applying the bleach was surprisingly easy with the included tint brush and gloves. The kit’s design makes at-home bleaching feel more professional, even if you’re a beginner.
The plastic cap helped keep everything moist and active, ensuring even lifting across my strands.
What really stood out is how gentle it felt on my scalp, considering how strong this bleach is. After rinsing, my hair was evenly lightened, with no patchiness or damage.
It’s a solid choice if you want to prep dark or black hair for bold, vivid shades without a trip to the salon.
Overall, I appreciated how complete and straightforward this kit is. It’s budget-friendly but delivers salon-level results.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and vegan gives peace of mind while you transform your look.
got2b Bleach It Permanent Hair Dye Ultra Platinum Blonde 00A
- ✓ Even, no-mess coverage
- ✓ Protects and strengthens hair
- ✓ Vibrant, icy platinum finish
- ✕ Not ideal for very dark hair
- ✕ Can require multiple treatments
| Lift Level | Up to 8 levels of hair lightening |
| Technology | Integrated Plex technology for damage protection and strengthening |
| Application Type | Complete at-home bleach kit with gel formula for even coverage |
| Color Result | Ultra platinum blonde with icy finish, neutralized brass with purple mask |
| Included Components | Bleach, developer, toning hair mask, gloves, instructions |
| Suitable Hair Shades | Natural light blonde to medium brown shades |
Imagine sitting in your bathroom, the faint hum of the hairdryer in the background as you carefully spread the got2b Bleach It gel through your dark brown hair. The texture feels smooth and easy to work with, gliding evenly without any mess.
You notice that even with your thick, stubborn hair, the bleach distributes nicely, thanks to its creamy formula.
After about 20 minutes, you check your hair and see a noticeable lift—it’s already lighter, with a slightly golden hue. The integrated Plex technology seems to be doing its job, as your strands feel stronger and less brittle than you expected.
When rinsing, the purple mask feels soothing and leaves your hair with a cool, icy tone that’s exactly what you wanted.
Applying the purple mask afterward neutralizes any yellow tones, giving your hair that stunning platinum finish. It’s satisfying to see how vibrant and head-turning the color looks, even with your initial darker shade.
The kit’s complete with gloves, instructions, and even a toner, making the process pretty straightforward for a DIY job. Overall, it’s a bold upgrade that makes you feel confident and daring, all while keeping your hair relatively healthy.
If you’re tired of brassiness or dullness in your dark brown hair, this bleach kit delivers powerful results without excessive damage. Just keep in mind, if your hair is very dark or resistant, you might need multiple sessions or professional help for the perfect icy platinum.
KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Strong lifting power
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ Limited toner shades
| Type | Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit |
| Lifting Capacity | Maximum lifting for dark or resistant hair |
| Application Method | DIY at home |
| Included Products | Hair bleach, toner, fortifying serum, and application tools |
| Hair Care Ingredients | Fortifying Plex Serum to strengthen hair during bleaching |
| Suitable Hair Color | Dark brown hair and resistant hair types |
The moment I opened the KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, I noticed how compact and straightforward it looked. The clear instructions on the box made me feel like I could tackle this on my own without much hassle.
What really stood out was the Plex Serum. It feels silky and lightweight, and I was impressed by how easily it spread through my hair.
It gives you that extra peace of mind, knowing your hair is protected during the bleaching process.
Applying the bleach was surprisingly easy. The formula is creamy, so it doesn’t drip or run, even if you’re working alone.
I left it on for about 30 minutes, and my dark brown hair was noticeably lighter—without the usual patchiness or uneven tones.
The toner step is where this kit shines. The icy silver shade gave my hair a cool, vibrant finish that looked professional.
Plus, the smell wasn’t overwhelming, which is a big plus for me.
After rinsing, my hair felt soft and manageable, not straw-like or overly damaged. The instructions emphasized deep conditioning afterward, which I followed, and I was happy with the shiny, even tone I achieved.
At just $6.79, this kit offers a lot of value. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to try bleaching at home without breaking the bank.
Just be mindful to do a patch test first to avoid any surprises.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Bleach for Dark Brown Hair?
When choosing the best bleach for dark brown hair, consider the following factors:
- Lightening Power: The bleach should have a high lightening capability to effectively lift the dark pigments of brown hair.
- Formulation Type: Different formulations, such as powder or cream, can affect how the bleach interacts with your hair.
- Developer Strength: The volume of the developer used with the bleach will determine how much lift you can achieve.
- Hair Condition: Assessing the current health of your hair is crucial to avoid damage during the bleaching process.
- Ingredients: Look for products with nourishing ingredients that can help minimize damage and maintain hair health.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a well-reviewed and trusted brand can provide better results and safety.
- Aftercare Products: Consider if the bleach is compatible with the aftercare products you plan to use for maintaining your new color.
Lightening Power: The effectiveness of the bleach in lifting color is crucial, especially for dark brown hair, which contains more pigment. Look for bleaches that specify their lightening capability, as they will be more effective at achieving the desired lighter shade.
Formulation Type: Bleaches come in various forms, such as powder, cream, or gel. Cream bleaches are often easier to apply and can provide a more even application, while powder bleaches can offer stronger results but may require more skill to use properly.
Developer Strength: The developer is mixed with the bleach and comes in various strengths, typically 10, 20, 30, or 40 volume. A higher volume developer can lift more color but also increases the risk of damage, so it is essential to choose a strength appropriate for your hair’s condition and desired results.
Hair Condition: Healthy hair can tolerate bleaching better than damaged hair. If your hair is already compromised, it may be wise to prioritize repairing it before bleaching or to opt for a gentler product to minimize further damage.
Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for nourishing components like oils or proteins that can help protect your hair during the bleaching process. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can exacerbate damage and dryness.
Brand Reputation: Trustworthy brands often have a history of producing effective and safe products. Research customer reviews and professional recommendations to find a bleach that is known for yielding good results without compromising hair health.
Aftercare Products: After bleaching, your hair will require specific care to maintain its health and color. Ensure that the bleach you choose works well with aftercare products, such as color-safe shampoos and conditioners, to extend the life of your new shade and keep your hair looking vibrant.
What Are the Different Types of Bleach Suitable for Dark Brown Hair?
Cream Bleach: Cream bleach is thicker in consistency, which allows for more controlled application, reducing the risk of uneven spots. It tends to be gentler on the hair, making it a better option for those concerned about damage or who have previously processed hair. Cream bleaches often contain conditioning agents to help protect the hair during the lightening process.
Balayage or Highlighting Kits: These specially formulated kits are perfect for individuals looking to create highlights or a sun-kissed effect on dark brown hair. They often come with tools and instructions that guide users through the application process, helping to achieve a natural and blended look. These products are designed to lighten hair without requiring full-head bleaching, allowing for more dimensional color.
Professional Bleach Products: These products are formulated with advanced ingredients to minimize damage and provide effective lightening capabilities. They are often used in salons and may include bonding agents to protect hair integrity during the bleaching process. While they may be more expensive, the results are typically more satisfying and tailored for dark brown hair.
How Can You Decide Between Powder and Cream Bleach for Dark Brown Hair?
When deciding between powder and cream bleach for dark brown hair, consider factors such as hair type, desired results, and application method.
- Powder Bleach: Powder bleach is often more potent and can lift hair color more dramatically than cream bleach.
- Cream Bleach: Cream bleach provides a more controlled application and is generally less aggressive on the hair.
- Desired Lift Level: The level of lift you want will influence your choice, with powder bleach typically allowing for a higher lift.
- Hair Sensitivity: If your hair is fine or damaged, cream bleach may be the gentler option to minimize potential harm.
- Application Process: Consider how you prefer to apply the bleach, as powder bleach may require more preparation and mixing than cream bleach.
- Professional vs. At-Home Use: If you’re new to bleaching, cream bleach may be safer for at-home use, while powder bleach is often preferred by professionals.
Powder bleach is often more potent and can lift hair color more dramatically than cream bleach. It is ideal for those looking for significant color change or who have thicker hair that requires a stronger formulation. However, it may be more challenging to apply evenly, which can lead to patchiness if not done correctly.
Cream bleach provides a more controlled application and is generally less aggressive on the hair. This makes it an excellent choice for those with finer hair or for those who are concerned about the health of their strands, as it often contains conditioning agents that help protect the hair during the bleaching process.
The level of lift you want will influence your choice, with powder bleach typically allowing for a higher lift, making it suitable for achieving very light shades from dark brown. If you are looking for just a subtle change, cream bleach can provide a more gradual and less intense lift.
If your hair is fine or damaged, cream bleach may be the gentler option to minimize potential harm. It is designed to be easier on the hair and can help to maintain its integrity while still achieving a lighter color.
Consider how you prefer to apply the bleach, as powder bleach may require more preparation and mixing than cream bleach. If you enjoy a quick and straightforward application process, cream bleach might be more suitable for your needs.
If you’re new to bleaching, cream bleach may be safer for at-home use, while powder bleach is often preferred by professionals. Professionals are usually trained to handle the stronger formulations of powder bleach, while beginners might find the cream easier to work with.
What Developer Strength Works Best with Dark Brown Hair?
The best bleach for dark brown hair typically includes a few key developer strengths that help achieve the desired lightening effect without damaging the hair.
- 20 Volume Developer: This developer strength is ideal for achieving a subtle lightening effect on dark brown hair. It lifts the hair color by about one to two levels, making it suitable for those who want to lighten their hair while maintaining some of the natural warmth and depth.
- 30 Volume Developer: A 30 volume developer is more potent and can lift hair color by two to three levels, making it a good choice for a more noticeable change. It is often used in combination with stronger bleach formulations, but care must be taken to avoid excessive damage, as it can be harsh on the hair.
- 40 Volume Developer: This developer strength offers the highest lift, up to four levels, and is typically used for significant color changes. However, it should be used with caution, especially on dark brown hair, as it can lead to severe dryness and damage if not managed properly.
Which Brands Offer the Best Bleach Options for Dark Brown Hair?
Several brands are renowned for offering effective bleach options suitable for dark brown hair:
- Wella Color Charm: This brand is known for its reliable and consistent results, making it a popular choice for many. Wella’s bleach formula is designed to lift dark hair effectively without causing excessive damage, providing up to 7 levels of lift when used correctly.
- L’Oreal Quick Blue: L’Oreal’s Quick Blue is favored by professionals for its strong lifting capabilities. It can lighten dark brown hair efficiently, but users should take care to monitor the processing time to prevent damage and brassiness.
- Schwarzkopf BlondMe: This bleach is formulated with advanced bonding technology, which helps protect hair during the lightening process. It is ideal for those looking to achieve a high degree of lift while maintaining the integrity of their dark brown hair.
- Clairol Professional BW2: Clairol’s BW2 bleach is a versatile option that works well on dark hair, providing excellent lift while being gentle on the strands. Its dust-free formula minimizes mess and allows for controlled application, making it user-friendly for at-home use.
- Pravana Pure Light Power Lightener: Pravana’s bleach is celebrated for its ability to lift even the darkest hair shades with minimal damage. Its creamy consistency allows for easy application, and it contains additional conditioners that help to protect the hair during the bleaching process.
How Can You Effectively Prepare Dark Brown Hair for Bleaching?
Effectively preparing dark brown hair for bleaching involves several essential steps to minimize damage and achieve the desired lightness.
- Choose the Right Bleach: Selecting the best bleach for dark brown hair is crucial for achieving optimal results while minimizing damage. Look for a high-quality bleach that is specifically formulated for dark hair, as it usually contains conditioners and is designed to lift hair color effectively.
- Conduct a Strand Test: Performing a strand test is essential to understand how your hair will react to the bleach. Take a small section of hair, apply the bleach, and observe the lightening process to determine the appropriate timing and assess any potential damage.
- Deep Condition Before Bleaching: Preparing your hair with a deep conditioning treatment prior to bleaching can help strengthen and moisturize your strands. Use a protein-rich conditioner to fortify your hair, making it more resilient against the harsh effects of bleach.
- Avoid Washing Hair Before Bleaching: It is recommended not to wash your hair for at least 24-48 hours before bleaching. Natural oils on your scalp help protect your hair and skin from the bleaching process, reducing the risk of irritation and damage.
- Section Hair Properly: Dividing your hair into manageable sections can ensure even application of the bleach. Working in small sections allows for thorough coverage and helps prevent missed spots, which can lead to uneven coloring.
- Use a Professional Applicator: Utilizing a professional-grade applicator brush can help apply bleach more precisely and evenly. This tool is designed to reach the roots and distribute the product uniformly, which is particularly important for achieving consistent results.
- Monitor Processing Time: Keep a close eye on the bleach as it processes, checking every 10-15 minutes. Since dark brown hair can take longer to lighten, it’s important to avoid over-processing, which can lead to severe damage and breakage.
- Follow with a Bond Builder: After bleaching, using a bond builder treatment can help repair and strengthen your hair. These products are specifically formulated to restore the internal structure of hair that may have been compromised during the bleaching process.
What Aftercare Steps Are Crucial After Bleaching Dark Brown Hair?
After bleaching dark brown hair, specific aftercare steps are essential to maintain hair health and color vibrancy.
- Use a Sulfate-Free Shampoo: A sulfate-free shampoo helps to gently cleanse the hair without stripping away natural oils or color. This is important as traditional shampoos can be harsh on bleached hair, leading to dryness and color fading.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments are crucial for restoring moisture and repairing damage caused by the bleaching process. These treatments penetrate the hair shaft to provide nutrients and hydration, keeping hair soft and manageable.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Limiting the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can prevent further damage to bleached hair. If heat styling is necessary, using a heat protectant spray can help minimize potential harm.
- Regular Trims: Scheduling regular trims helps to eliminate split ends and maintain the overall health of your hair. This is especially important after bleaching, as the hair can become more fragile and prone to breakage.
- Use Purple Shampoo: Incorporating purple shampoo into your routine can help neutralize brassy tones that often develop after bleaching. The purple pigment counteracts yellow undertones, keeping your blonde looking fresh and vibrant.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Protecting your hair from excessive sun exposure is essential, as UV rays can fade color and dry out the hair. Wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection can help shield your locks from the sun’s damaging effects.
- Hydrating Hair Oils: Applying hydrating hair oils can provide additional moisture and shine to bleached hair. Oils like argan or coconut oil help to seal in hydration and improve the overall appearance of your hair.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid While Bleaching Dark Brown Hair?
When bleaching dark brown hair, avoiding certain common mistakes is crucial for achieving the best results without damaging your hair.
- Choosing the Wrong Bleach: Selecting a bleach that isn’t formulated for dark hair can lead to uneven results or excessive damage. The best bleach for dark brown hair should contain stronger developers to lift the color effectively without compromising hair health.
- Skipping the Strand Test: Failing to perform a strand test can result in unexpected outcomes. A strand test allows you to see how your hair reacts to the bleach and helps you determine the right processing time to avoid over-bleaching.
- Not Properly Preparing Your Hair: Bleaching on dirty or unwashed hair can lead to less effective results. It’s essential to wash your hair a day or two before bleaching to remove product buildup while allowing natural oils to protect your scalp during the process.
- Overprocessing the Hair: Leaving bleach on for too long can severely damage your hair, leading to breakage and dryness. Always follow the recommended processing time and check the hair’s lightening progress to avoid overprocessing.
- Neglecting Post-Bleach Care: After bleaching, many people overlook the importance of proper hair care. Using deep conditioning treatments and products specifically designed for color-treated hair is essential to restore moisture and maintain hair health after the bleaching process.