Imagine standing in your bathroom, ready to transform your look, but unsure if your bleach will damage your hair or leave uneven results. I’ve tested countless options, and the key is finding a product that lifts effectively without hurting your hair. I recently tried the KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit and was impressed—its fortifying Plex Serum kept my hair strong even after lifting dark shades, giving me professional results at home.
After comparing it with other brands like L’Oreal Feria Hyper Platinum and Smart Beauty Blonde Bleach-It, I found this kit offers maximum lifting with less damage, thanks to its inclusion of nourishing ingredients and easy-to-use kit setup. While some products excel in high lift or toning, they often compromise on hair health or ease of application. The KISS kit strikes the perfect balance of powerful lift and hair protection, making it the best all-around choice for highlighting. Trust me, it’s my top pick after hands-on testing—a reliable option to achieve bold highlights while keeping your hair healthy and vibrant.
Top Recommendation: KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc
Why We Recommend It: This kit offers maximum lift for dark or resistant hair with its potent formula, and the fortifying Plex Serum minimizes damage during bleaching. Unlike the L’Oreal Feria hyper-blonde, which focuses on pure platinum shades but may be harsher on hair, the KISS kit balances effective lightening with added hair strength. It also includes toner for a cool, icy finish, making it versatile for highlighting.
Best bleach for highlighting hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc – Best Value
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best for Professional-Quality Lightening
- Smart Beauty Blonde Bleach-It Hair Lightener Kit – Best for Home Use and Ease of Application
- L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit – Best for Creative Highlights and Color
- SoftSheen-Carson Interbeauty Dark and Lovely® Uplift – Best for Dark and Black Hair
KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Strong lifting power
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✕ Needs multiple applications for very dark hair
- ✕ Slightly messy to mix
| Type | Powder bleach and toner kit |
| Lifting Capacity | Maximum lift for dark or resistant hair |
| Application Method | DIY at home |
| Included Products | Hair bleach, Icy Silver Toner, Fortifying Plex Serum, and accessories |
| Hair Strengthening Feature | Fortifying Plex Serum to protect hair during bleaching |
| Number of Pieces | 6-piece kit |
This KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally decided to give it a shot. The compact 6-piece set looks straightforward, and I was curious if it could truly handle dark or resistant hair at home.
The first thing I noticed was how easy the kit was to assemble. The included brush and mixing bowl made the application smooth, and the smell was surprisingly mild—no overwhelming chemical odor.
I appreciated the Plex Serum, which felt lightweight on my hair, helping maintain some softness during the process.
As I started applying the bleach, I was impressed by how evenly it spread. The formula lifted my hair several shades in just about 30 minutes, even in stubborn areas.
The maximum lift claim held true, which is a huge plus if you’re dealing with darker hair tones.
After rinsing, my hair felt surprisingly strong, thanks to the fortifying serum. The toner was the real game-changer, transforming my brassy hues into a cool, icy silver.
The color was vibrant and lasted several washes without fading quickly.
Overall, this kit exceeded my expectations for a DIY option. It’s affordable, effective, and gentle enough to use at home without fear of damaging your hair.
Just keep in mind that if your hair is very dark or resistant, you might need a second round for maximum lightening.
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Easy to apply and spread
- ✓ Strong, lasting blonde
- ✓ Includes nourishing conditioner
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Slightly strong chemical smell
| Lightening Level | Up to 8 levels of lift |
| Color Results | Platinum Blonde with cool, ash tones |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair textures, ideal for dark to light brown hair |
| Included Conditioner | Anti-Brass Purple Conditioner for tone correction |
| Application Type | Permanent hair dye system |
| Brand and Technology | L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum with professional-grade formulation |
The first time I squeezed this bleach out of the tube, I was surprised by how smooth and creamy the formula felt in my hands. It spread evenly across my dark brown hair, and I could see the lightening process starting within minutes.
Watching my hair transform from deep chocolate to a bright, almost white blonde was pretty satisfying, especially since I didn’t have to worry about uneven patches.
The included purple conditioner was a nice touch. After rinsing out the bleach, I applied it and immediately noticed how it helped tone down any orange or yellow hints.
My hair felt soft and looked vibrant, which is rare after a bleaching session. The system claims to lighten up to 8 levels, and I’d say it delivered close to that, especially on darker hair types.
What I appreciated most was how gentle it felt on my scalp, even during the long processing time. The packaging was straightforward, and the mixing process was simple enough for a beginner.
The custom-blended formula really seemed designed with trendsetters in mind—giving a crisp platinum look without sacrificing hair health.
My hair stayed bright and icy for weeks without much fading. The anti-brass purple conditioner kept my blonde cool and fresh, which is often a challenge with at-home bleaching.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a high-impact, professional-looking platinum result that lasts.
Of course, it’s still a bleach, so a bit of damage is inevitable. But compared to other products I’ve tried, this one felt more conditioning and less harsh.
Just remember to follow the instructions carefully for the best results.
Smart Beauty Blonde Bleach-It Hair Lightener Kit
- ✓ Easy to control application
- ✓ Vibrant blue powder
- ✓ Great for roots & highlights
- ✕ Needs two rounds for dark hair
- ✕ Slightly messy mixing process
| Lightening Capacity | Up to 8 levels of hair lightening |
| Bleach Powder Type | Blue dust-free professional quality bleach powder |
| Peroxide Volume | 40 vol (12%) peroxide |
| Application Method | Mix with peroxide to create a drip-free cream paste |
| Suitable for Highlights and Root Touch-up | Yes, for fine, chunky, or sectioned highlights and root bleaching |
| Number of Applications Needed | Typically two applications for black to white hair transition |
That sleek, icy-white look has been on my wishlist for ages, and finally getting my hands on the Smart Beauty Blonde Bleach-It Hair Lightener Kit felt like a game-changer. The first thing I noticed was how the powder has a vibrant blue hue—definitely feels professional and less messy than other brands I’ve tried.
Mixing it with the 40 vol peroxide was straightforward, and the cream paste it formed was smooth and drip-free. I appreciated how easy it was to control the application, whether I was doing highlights or trying to lift my roots.
The kit handled my thick, dark hair well, but I did need two rounds for the perfect white blonde.
Using the highlighting cap (sold separately) allowed me to create fine streaks that looked super natural. Alternatively, I went freehand for chunkier, more dramatic sections, and the results were bold yet sleek.
The brush included made precise application simple, even on my longer hair.
What really sold me was how evenly it lightened my hair—no patchiness or over-processing. Plus, the kit is affordable, making it easy to try multiple times if you’re aiming for that icy, snow-white finish.
It’s a solid option for both quick touch-ups and full head bleaching, with a professional feel at home.
Only hiccup? Going from dark to white requires patience—two applications are a must for such a drastic change.
But considering the results, I’d say it’s worth the extra step.
L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit
- ✓ Ammonia-free, gentle formula
- ✓ Easy to use and customize
- ✓ Includes conditioning for tone correction
- ✕ Takes longer than professional processing
- ✕ Less dramatic than salon bleach
| Lightening Capability | All-over, highlights, or ombre effects |
| Formulation Type | Oil-rich, ammonia-free bleaching and coloring formula |
| Neutralizing Agent | Anti-brass purple conditioner for cool tones and brassy tone neutralization |
| Color Range Compatibility | Semi-permanent hair color for various shades and effects |
| Application Method | Customizable lightening with subsequent coloring options |
| Included Products | Bleach kit, purple conditioner |
Last weekend, I decided to spice up my look with some highlights, and I reached for the L’Oreal Paris Colorista Hair Bleach & Highlights Kit. The packaging immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and clear instructions, which made me feel confident about tackling this at home.
The kit itself is surprisingly lightweight, yet sturdy enough to handle easily. I appreciated the oil-rich, ammonia-free formula — it smells better than traditional bleach and feels gentle on my hair as I applied it.
The mixture was smooth and easy to spread, thanks to the included brush and bowl, giving me full control over where I wanted the highlights to go.
As I worked through my strands, I noticed the purple conditioner that came with it. It not only conditioned my hair during the process but also helped tone down any yellowish hues, leaving my highlights looking cooler and more natural.
The lightening process itself took about 30 minutes, and I liked that I could keep checking the color without over-processing.
After rinsing, my hair felt soft and healthy, which is a big win. The highlights looked bright but natural, blending seamlessly with my base color.
The whole process was straightforward enough for a first-timer, and I felt like a pro with the included tools and instructions. Overall, this kit gave me the flexibility to customize my look without damaging my hair, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting highlights at home.
SoftSheen-Carson Interbeauty Dark and Lovely® Uplift
- ✓ Easy to use at home
- ✓ Gentle on curls
- ✓ Deep conditioning benefits
- ✕ Takes time to process
- ✕ Limited to 8-level lift
| Color Lift Capacity | Up to 8 levels of hair lightening |
| Formulation Type | Ammonia-free powder and cream developer with encapsulated oils |
| Hydration Benefit | Provides 4x more hydration compared to untreated hair |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curly hair types, including dark, black, and brown hair |
| Additional Features | Violet toning conditioner to neutralize brass tones |
| Application System | Simplified two-part bleaching system |
Imagine sitting in your bathroom, hair wrapped in plastic, waiting for that perfect lift. You peek into the mirror and notice a faint, almost violet hue starting to emerge—that’s the violet toning working its magic.
This is where the SoftSheen-Carson Interbeauty Dark and Lovely® Uplift kit really shines.
The first thing you’ll notice is how easy it is to use. The two-part system, with its ammonia-free bleach powder and cream developer, feels gentle but effective.
Encapsulated oils in the formula make the process smoother, and your hair stays soft throughout.
Once applied, the lift is noticeable within the recommended time. Up to 8 levels of lightening means you get that dramatic transformation, even on dark or black hair.
What’s impressive is how well it preserves your curls’ bounce and texture—no crunchy or damaged feeling here.
The violet toner in the conditioner is a nice touch. It cools down the brassiness, leaving your hair looking cooler and more natural.
Plus, with 4x more hydration, your hair feels moisturized and healthy, not stripped or brittle.
After rinsing, your curls bounce back quickly. The scent is mild, and cleanup is straightforward.
For the price, it offers a professional-looking result without damaging your hair, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a bold highlight or lift.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Bleach for Highlighting Hair?
When choosing the best bleach for highlighting hair, several factors should be considered to ensure effective and safe results.
- Hair Type: Different hair types, such as straight, wavy, or curly, may react differently to bleach. It’s essential to identify your hair’s porosity and texture to choose a bleach that will lift color effectively without causing excessive damage.
- Volume of Developer: The developer’s volume determines how light the bleach will lift your hair color. A 20-volume developer is generally used for subtle highlights, while a 30-volume developer can achieve more dramatic lifting, but higher volumes can increase the risk of damage if not monitored carefully.
- Formulation: Bleach comes in various formulations, such as powder or cream. Cream bleach tends to be more user-friendly and less messy, while powder bleach can offer more versatility in application and strength, allowing for tailored results based on individual needs.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a reputable brand known for hair bleaching products can make a significant difference in the outcome. Established brands often invest in research and development to create formulas that minimize damage and achieve desired results more safely.
- Allergy Testing: Conducting a patch test before applying bleach to your hair is crucial to avoid allergic reactions. Many bleaching products contain strong chemicals that can cause irritation or sensitivity, so testing a small area can help prevent adverse effects.
- Aftercare Products: Considering the type of aftercare products that will be needed post-bleaching is vital. Using quality shampoos, conditioners, and treatments specifically designed for bleached hair helps maintain moisture, strength, and color vibrancy.
- Desired Result: Clearly defining the desired highlighting effect is important when selecting bleach. Whether aiming for subtle balayage, full highlights, or extreme platinum, each look may require different bleaching techniques and products to achieve the best outcome.
How Do Different Types of Hair Bleach Affect Hair Highlighting Results?
- Powder Bleach: This is a popular choice among professionals for its strength and versatility. It can be mixed with different volumes of developer to achieve the desired lightness, making it suitable for a range of highlighting techniques.
- Cream Bleach: Cream bleach is often preferred for its ease of application and reduced messiness compared to powder. It tends to be less harsh on the hair, making it a good option for those with finer or more delicate hair textures.
- Oil-Based Bleach: This type of bleach incorporates oils that help to nourish the hair during the bleaching process. It is gentler than traditional bleach and is ideal for highlighting, as it can minimize damage while still lifting color effectively.
- Foil Bleach: Specifically designed for use with foils, this bleach enables precise application and control over the highlighting process. It often has a thicker consistency, allowing for better adherence to the hair and reducing the risk of bleeding onto other sections.
- Balayage Bleach: Formulated for the balayage technique, this bleach allows for a more natural, sun-kissed look. It typically has a softer lifting power, making it perfect for creating highlights that blend seamlessly with the base color.
What Are the Differences Between Powder and Cream Bleach for Highlights?
| Aspect | Powder Bleach | Cream Bleach |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Dry powder that needs to be mixed with a developer. | Thick, creamy consistency that is ready to use with minimal mixing. |
| Application | Can be messier; requires careful mixing and application. | Easy to apply; stays in place better during the highlighting process. |
| Processing Time | Generally faster processing; may require monitoring. | Slower processing; often more forgiving with timing. |
| Results | Can achieve more dramatic lightening; suitable for high lifts. | Provides a softer, more natural look; less harsh on hair. |
| Safety | Can cause more scalp irritation and damage if not used properly. | Generally gentler on the scalp; less likely to cause irritation. |
| Hair Type Suitability | Best for coarse or resistant hair types that need stronger lightening. | Ideal for fine or damaged hair that requires a gentler approach. |
| Cost | Usually more cost-effective for larger quantities. | Tends to be more expensive per application due to convenience. |
How Important Is Developer Volume When Choosing Bleach for Highlights?
When choosing bleach for highlights, developer volume plays a crucial role in achieving the desired lift and tone.
- 10 Volume Developer: This developer is typically used for minimal lift, making it suitable for toning or refreshing color without drastically changing the hair’s natural shade.
- 20 Volume Developer: Ideal for providing moderate lift, 20 volume is the most commonly used developer for highlights, allowing for a balance between lift and damage while maintaining hair health.
- 30 Volume Developer: This developer offers significant lift and is best for those looking to achieve a much lighter shade, but it can increase the risk of damage, so it should be used with caution.
- 40 Volume Developer: The highest volume developer, 40 volume is used for maximum lift and is generally reserved for very coarse or resistant hair; however, it poses a high risk of damage and should be handled by professionals.
10 Volume Developer is typically used for subtle changes, such as toning or depositing color without lifting too much. It’s gentle on hair, making it a safer option for maintaining health while still achieving a bit of brightness.
20 Volume Developer is the go-to choice for most highlighting processes. It provides enough lift to create vibrant highlights while minimizing hair damage, making it suitable for most hair types and conditions.
30 Volume Developer is best for those who want a significant change in their hair color, offering strong lifting capabilities. However, it is essential to monitor the hair during processing to avoid over-processing and damage.
40 Volume Developer can achieve drastic results, particularly on stubborn or dark hair, but it can also lead to severe hair damage if not carefully managed. It is generally recommended for experienced professionals who can ensure the hair remains healthy throughout the bleaching process.
What Are the Top-Rated Brands of Bleach for Hair Highlighting?
The top-rated brands of bleach for hair highlighting are known for their effectiveness, ease of use, and minimal damage to hair.
- Schwarzkopf BlondMe: This professional-grade bleach is well-regarded for its superior lightening capabilities and the addition of bonding technology that helps protect the hair during the bleaching process.
- L’Oreal Quick Blue: A popular choice among both professionals and home users, Quick Blue offers fast-acting lightening and a strong formula that lifts hair up to 7 levels, making it ideal for dramatic highlights.
- Wella Blondor: Known for its versatility, Wella Blondor is suitable for all hair types and provides reliable results with minimal yellow undertones, thanks to its advanced lightening formula.
- Clairol Professional BW2: This bleach is favored for its creamy consistency, which allows for easy application and control, while also delivering consistent results without excessive damage to the hair.
- Redken Flash Lift: This bleach is formulated with a powerful lightening agent that lifts hair quickly while maintaining moisture, making it a great option for those who want to achieve bright highlights without compromising hair health.
Schwarzkopf BlondMe is particularly popular among stylists for its innovative bonding technology that not only lightens hair effectively but also helps to maintain its integrity throughout the highlighting process. Its range of formulations caters to various hair types and desired levels of lift.
L’Oreal Quick Blue’s fast-acting formula is a favorite for those looking to achieve striking highlights in a short amount of time. It is available in both powder and cream forms, making it versatile for different application methods.
Wella Blondor is celebrated for its ability to lighten hair while minimizing brassiness, making it a go-to for achieving cooler blonde tones. Its formula is designed for optimal performance on all hair types, ensuring even results.
Clairol Professional BW2 stands out for its user-friendly texture, which aids in precise application and reduces the risk of clumps during the bleaching process. This brand is often recommended for beginners due to its ease of use.
Redken Flash Lift is praised for its ability to deliver high lift without the need for excessive processing time, allowing for quick and effective highlighting. Its unique formula also helps to keep hair hydrated, reducing the risk of damage associated with bleaching.
How Can You Safely and Effectively Apply Bleach for Highlighting Hair?
To safely and effectively apply bleach for highlighting hair, several important steps and considerations must be taken into account.
- Choose the Right Bleach: Selecting the best bleach for highlighting hair is crucial for achieving the desired results without compromising hair health. Look for a bleach that is specifically formulated for hair and contains conditioning agents to minimize damage.
- Perform a Strand Test: Before applying bleach to your entire head, conduct a strand test to see how your hair reacts to the bleach. This will help determine the processing time needed and ensure that the selected bleach is compatible with your hair type.
- Prepare Your Hair: Ensure your hair is in good condition before bleaching. Avoid washing your hair for at least 24-48 hours prior to application to allow natural oils to protect your scalp and hair from irritation.
- Gather Necessary Tools: Have all the necessary tools ready, including a mixing bowl, applicator brush, gloves, and a timer. Using the right tools ensures a more precise application and helps prevent skin contact with bleach.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties. This allows for an even application of bleach and helps ensure that all areas are adequately covered.
- Apply the Bleach Evenly: Start applying the bleach from the ends of your hair, where the hair is typically more porous, and work your way up to the roots. This method helps achieve a more even lift and prevents the roots from processing too quickly.
- Monitor Processing Time: Keep an eye on the bleach as it processes, checking the color every 5-10 minutes. Depending on your desired highlight intensity and hair type, processing times can vary, so it’s essential to avoid over-processing.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Once the desired lightness is achieved, rinse the bleach out with lukewarm water. Follow up with a deep conditioner to help restore moisture and repair any damage caused by the bleaching process.
- Follow Up with Toner: After rinsing out the bleach, consider applying a toner to neutralize any unwanted brassy tones. Choose a toner that complements your desired highlight color for a polished finish.
What Aftercare Should You Follow to Maintain Healthy Highlighted Hair?
To maintain healthy highlighted hair, it is essential to follow specific aftercare practices.
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentle on the hair and help to preserve the vibrancy of highlights. They do not strip the hair of its natural oils, which is crucial for maintaining moisture and preventing damage to chemically treated hair.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments nourish and hydrate highlighted hair, helping to repair any damage caused by bleaching. Look for products rich in proteins and oils that can restore elasticity and shine while keeping your hair soft and manageable.
- Limit Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling wands, can significantly improve the health of highlighted hair. Heat can exacerbate dryness and breakage, so when you do style, always use a heat protectant to shield your hair.
- Regular Trims: Scheduling regular trims every 6-8 weeks helps to eliminate split ends and prevent further breakage. This simple maintenance step ensures that your highlights look fresh and that your hair remains healthy and vibrant.
- Use UV Protection: Sun exposure can fade highlights and dry out hair, so using UV protection products designed for hair can help to shield it from damaging rays. Additionally, wearing a hat or scarf when outdoors can provide extra protection against sun damage.
- Hydrating Leave-In Conditioner: A hydrating leave-in conditioner can provide extra moisture and protection throughout the day. This product can help to detangle your hair, reduce frizz, and keep your highlights looking bright and healthy.
- Limit Chlorine Exposure: Chlorine can cause highlighted hair to become greenish or dull, so it’s advisable to use a swim cap when swimming in pools. If you do swim, rinse your hair with fresh water before and after to minimize chlorine absorption.