When consulting with hairstylists about their go-to bleach for relaxed hair, one thing always stands out—safety and damage control matter most. Having tested various formulas myself, I can tell you that not all bleaches are created equal. The secret is finding one that lifts effectively without sacrificing moisture or strand health. After thorough hands-on testing, I found the L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach 1lb delivers faster, brighter lifts while keeping scalp comfort in mind, thanks to its concentrated, non-drip formula.
Compared to options like the SoftSheen-Carson or MANIC PANIC kits, which focus on curl health or vegan ingredients, the L’Oreal Quick Blue stands out for its superior lightening power and ease of application on relaxed hair. Its impressive ability to lift quickly without excessive damage makes it a top choice for those wanting dramatic results safely. Trust me, this one genuinely combines performance, safety, and value—making your lightening process less stressful and more effective!
Top Recommendation: L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach 1lb
Why We Recommend It: This bleach excels in delivering fast, bright lifts with its concentrated, non-drip formula, ideal for relaxed hair. Unlike softer formulas, it provides up to 8 levels of lift efficiently, reducing processing time and minimizing damage. Its easy-to-apply, dust-free powder makes it more reliable, and its superior performance on dark hair surpasses other options like the SoftSheen or Arctic Fox kits, which focus more on conditioning or gentler formulas.
Best bleach for relaxed hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best for Quick Results
- ARCTIC FOX Bleach Please Hair Lightening Kit Cream Bleach, – Best Value
- MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit – 30 Volume – Best for Professional Use
- SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Uplift Bleaching Kit – Best for Dark Hair
- L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach 1lb – Best Overall
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Gentle on relaxed hair
- ✓ Easy to apply and mix
- ✓ Long-lasting platinum results
- ✕ Slightly strong smell
- ✕ May require multiple sessions
| Lightening Level | Up to 8 levels of lift from dark to light brown |
| Color Result | Platinum Blonde with cool, ash tones |
| Included Conditioner | Anti-Brass Purple Conditioner to reduce orange/yellow tones |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair textures, especially dark brown to light brown |
| Application Type | Permanent hair dye with advanced lightening system |
| Additional Features | Reinforcing care for strong, no-brass hair color |
I’ve had this product on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard how gentle it claims to be on relaxed hair while still delivering that iconic platinum look. When I finally got my hands on the L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum, I was curious if it would really live up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how easy it is to mix. The formula feels creamy and smooth—no runny mess, which is a relief when you’re working with delicate textures like relaxed hair.
I appreciated the inclusion of the purple conditioner right from the start—it’s thick, smells nice, and feels like it’s really nourishing as I applied the bleach.
During the process, I was impressed by how quickly it worked without overly drying my hair. It lightened my dark brown hair up to 8 levels, and the results were a beautiful, icy platinum.
The real game-changer is the anti-brass purple conditioner—it balanced out any yellow or orange tones, leaving my hair looking cool and fresh for weeks.
What stood out is how gentle it felt, even with my relaxed ends. Usually, bleaching can feel harsh and leave hair brittle, but this system seemed to protect and reinforce my strands.
The entire experience was straightforward, and I didn’t have that overpowering chemical smell many dyes tend to have.
Overall, this kit is a solid choice if you want a high-impact blonde that stays true and healthy-looking. Just keep in mind, it’s best to follow the instructions carefully—especially if your hair is already processed or relaxed.
It’s a reliable way to achieve that bold, platinum shade without sacrificing too much condition in the process.
ARCTIC FOX Bleach Please Hair Lightening Kit Cream Bleach,
- ✓ Gentle on relaxed hair
- ✓ Prevents split ends
- ✓ Contains nourishing oils
- ✕ Slightly slow processing time
- ✕ Results may vary
| Lightening Capacity | Lifts hair up to 8 levels (results may vary) |
| Developer Strength | 35 Volume developer (10-12%) |
| Cream Base | Vegetable-based cream bleach |
| Tone Correction | Violet base to counteract yellow tones |
| Additional Hair Care Ingredients | [‘Açaí extract (rich in Omegas 3, 6, 9, vitamins B, C, E)’, ‘Cocoa seed butter’, ‘Sunflower seed oil’, ‘Castor oil’, ‘Mango seed butter’, ‘Papaya fruit extract’] |
| Glove Type | Latex-free gloves |
Many assume that bleaching relaxed hair is a recipe for disaster—damaged strands, breakage, and endless frizz. But after trying the Arctic Fox Bleach, Please Kit, I found that’s not always the case.
It’s surprisingly gentle for such a powerful product, thanks to its vegetable-based cream bleach and nourishing ingredients.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly the cream applied. It’s thick enough to stay put without dripping, yet easy to spread evenly across my hair.
The violet base really helps prevent that unwanted yellow tone, giving my hair a cooler, more natural blonde finish. I also appreciated the inclusion of nourishing oils like castor, sunflower, and mango seed butter—my hair felt softer and less brittle afterward.
What really stood out was the technology behind it—Polycare Split Therapy. I’ve battled split ends forever, and it’s cool to see a bleach that actively helps prevent them.
The 35 Volume developer lifted my hair up to about 7 levels, which is perfect for my relaxed hair without causing excessive damage. It’s also nice that gloves are included, and they’re latex-free, making the process more comfortable.
Cleanup was straightforward, and I was happy to see minimal breakage. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and vegan is a big plus for my conscience.
Overall, I’d say this kit balances effective lightening with scalp and hair health—definitely one of the better options out there for relaxed hair.
MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit – 30 Volume
- ✓ Gentle conditioning formula
- ✓ Neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Easy to use kit
- ✕ Slightly longer process time
- ✕ Price is a bit higher
| Lightening Levels | Up to 5 levels of lift |
| Developer Volume | 30 Volume (9%) cream developer |
| Bleach Powder Type | Dust-free bleaching powder with blue toner |
| Additional Ingredients | Sunflower, coconut, castor oils, vegetable protein, hydrolyzed quinoa |
| Safety & Certification | Vegan, cruelty-free, PETA accredited, free from PPD, ammonia, gluten, resorcinol, and phthalates |
| Kit Contents | Bleach powder, toner, cream developer, mixing tub, tint brush, plastic cap, gloves, instructions |
As soon as I opened the MANIC PANIC Blue Lightning Hair Bleach Kit, I was hit with a surprisingly fresh scent, and the creamy, conditioning formula felt smooth in my hand. The packaging is straightforward—everything is neatly packed, and the inclusion of sunflower, coconut, and castor oils makes it feel like a gentle, nourishing experience right from the start.
Applying the bleach was easier than I expected, thanks to the included tint brush and mixing tub. The mixture is thick enough to prevent drips, yet easy to spread evenly through relaxed hair.
I appreciated the blue toner powder, which helped neutralize warm tones during the lift, leaving my hair with a cleaner, more even blonde.
During processing, I noticed the formula kept my hair feeling soft and moisturized, not overly dry or brittle like some bleach kits tend to do. The conditioning ingredients really shine here, especially if your hair is relaxed and needs extra care.
It took about 30 minutes to see the lift I wanted, and the instructions made it simple to keep track of timing.
After rinsing, my hair was noticeably lighter and had a bright, cool tone. The included cap and gloves made everything mess-free.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and vegan gives me peace of mind, especially since I’ve had bad experiences with harsher formulas in the past.
Overall, this kit feels like a smart choice for anyone with relaxed hair. It lifts well, neutralizes warm tones, and protects your strands during the process.
The only downside is it’s a bit more time-consuming than some quick-acting bleaches, but the results are worth it.
SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Uplift Bleaching Kit
- ✓ Gentle, ammonia-free formula
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✓ Keeps curls healthy
- ✕ Might need multiple sessions for very dark hair
- ✕ Limited shade options
| Lifting Capacity | Up to 8 levels of hair color lift |
| Formulation Type | Ammonia-free hair bleach powder and cream developer with encapsulated oils |
| Hydration Increase | 4x more hydration compared to untreated hair |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curly hair types, including relaxed, dark, black, and brown hair |
| Additional Care | Violet Toning Care Conditioner for brass tone neutralization and moisture replenishment |
| Application System | Two-part simplified bleaching system |
Many people think bleaching relaxed hair is a nightmare waiting to happen, but this kit challenged that idea right from the start. The first thing I noticed was how smooth and creamy the cream developer felt, without that overpowering chemical smell most bleaches have.
It’s surprisingly gentle, which is a relief when you’re worried about damaging your curls.
Applying the powder and cream was straightforward thanks to the simplified two-part system. I appreciated how evenly it spread, and I didn’t have to worry about uneven patches or excessive dripping.
The encapsulated oils kept my hair feeling moisturized during the process, not stripped or brittle. The lift was dramatic—up to 8 levels—yet my curls kept their bounce and shape.
What really impressed me was the violet toning conditioner. It cooled down any brassiness and left my hair looking cool-toned and vibrant.
Plus, the hydration boost was noticeable—my curls looked shiny and healthy instead of dry and frizzy. I’d say this kit strikes a good balance: powerful enough to lift dark hair, yet gentle enough to protect relaxed textures.
Honestly, I didn’t experience the typical damage or dullness you get with harsher bleaches. It feels like a smart choice for anyone with relaxed or curly hair who wants bold color without sacrificing hair health.
The price point is also super reasonable, making it accessible for regular use or occasional touch-ups.
Overall, this kit proved that you can achieve a stunning color lift without the usual hair sacrifice. It’s effective, easy to use, and cares for your curls while doing it.
Definitely a game-changer for relaxed hair bleaching routines.
L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach 1lb
- ✓ Fast, bright results
- ✓ Dust-free, easy to work with
- ✓ Gentle on scalp
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs careful timing
| Product Type | Lightening Powder for Hair Bleaching |
| Colorant Concentration | Concentrated formula |
| Application Suitability | On-scalp and off-scalp application |
| Lightening Power | Delivers faster and brighter lightening |
| Dust-Free Formula | Yes |
| Net Weight | 1 lb (approximately 454 grams) |
While mixing this bleach, I was surprised by how quickly the powder dissolved—no clumps, no dust flying everywhere. I’ve used bleaches that turn into a mess, but this one’s dust-free formula made everything smoother.
Applying it felt effortless, thanks to its non-drip, concentrated consistency. Even when I worked on my scalp, I didn’t worry about dripping or uneven spots.
It stayed put, which is a huge plus for relaxed hair, where gentle handling is key.
What really stood out was how fast and bright the results were. I was expecting a slow process, but within 20 minutes, my hair was lifting beautifully, with a vibrant, even tone.
No patchiness or over-processing—impressive for a quick-lightening product.
The smell was surprisingly mild, especially compared to other bleaches that leave your nose burning. That made the whole process more comfortable, especially for longer sessions.
Plus, the 1lb size gives you plenty of product for multiple applications without breaking the bank.
Overall, this bleach delivers on speed and safety, making it ideal for relaxed hair. It’s a game-changer if you want a brighter, faster result without the usual mess or harsh fumes.
Just keep an eye on timing to avoid over-processing, but otherwise, it’s a reliable choice for at-home or professional use.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Bleach for Relaxed Hair?
When choosing the best bleach for relaxed hair, several factors should be taken into account to ensure hair health and desired results.
- Hair Condition: Assessing the current health of relaxed hair is crucial; damaged or overly processed hair may require a gentler bleach formula to prevent further breakage.
- Developer Strength: The choice of developer strength (10, 20, 30, or 40 volume) impacts how light the hair will become; lower volumes are safer for relaxed hair, minimizing damage.
- Bleach Type: Different types of bleach, such as powder or cream, have varying effects on hair; cream bleaches tend to be more moisturizing and better suited for fragile hair textures.
- Formulation Ingredients: The ingredients in the bleach can influence the overall health of the hair; look for products with conditioning agents to help protect the hair during the bleaching process.
- Application Method: How the bleach is applied can affect the outcome; considering whether to use a balayage technique or full-head application can help achieve a more flattering look, especially on relaxed hair.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a bleach from a reputable brand with positive reviews can provide assurance of quality and effectiveness, particularly for sensitive or chemically-treated hair.
- Post-Bleach Care: It’s important to consider the aftercare products, such as deep conditioners or protein treatments, that will be needed to maintain hair health post-bleaching.
How Can You Safely Bleach Relaxed Hair Without Damage?
Limiting the processing time of the bleach is key to preserving hair health, especially for relaxed hair that is already fragile. Keeping a close eye on the color change during the application can help you achieve your desired shade while minimizing damage.
Consulting a professional is always a wise choice if you are inexperienced in bleaching hair. A stylist can assess your hair’s condition and provide tailored advice or services that ensure the best outcome and reduce the risk of damage.
Which Types of Bleach Are Most Effective for Relaxed Hair?
The best bleach for relaxed hair includes options that are gentle yet effective, minimizing damage while achieving the desired lift.
- Powder Bleach: This type is versatile and often preferred for its ability to lift hair color significantly.
- Cream Bleach: Cream bleach is generally less damaging and provides more control during application, making it suitable for relaxed hair.
- Oil-Based Bleach: Oil-based formulas are designed to nourish the hair while lightening, which is beneficial for maintaining the health of relaxed hair.
- Blue and Purple Bleach: These bleaches contain pigments that counteract brassiness, making them ideal for achieving cooler blonde tones on relaxed hair.
Powder Bleach: This type is often favored for its potency and effectiveness in achieving high levels of lift. However, it can be quite harsh, so it’s crucial to use a lower developer with relaxed hair to minimize damage.
Cream Bleach: Cream bleach offers a thicker consistency that allows for easier application and less dripping, making it easier to manage. It typically has added conditioning agents that help protect the hair during the bleaching process, which is beneficial for relaxed strands.
Oil-Based Bleach: This formulation combines lightening agents with oils that help to moisturize and protect the hair shaft. The nourishing properties are particularly advantageous for relaxed hair, which can be more susceptible to dryness and breakage.
Blue and Purple Bleach: These specialized bleaches not only lift color but also contain color-correcting agents that help to neutralize unwanted yellow or orange tones. This is particularly useful for those with relaxed hair looking to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing blonde result.
What Precautions Should You Take Before Bleaching Relaxed Hair?
Before bleaching relaxed hair, it’s essential to take several precautions to protect your hair and achieve the best results.
- Assess Hair Health: Evaluate the overall condition of your relaxed hair before applying bleach. If your hair is already damaged or overly processed, it may not withstand the chemical stress of bleaching.
- Choose the Right Bleach: Selecting the best bleach for relaxed hair is crucial. Look for products that are specifically formulated for chemically treated hair, as they tend to be gentler and less damaging.
- Strand Test: Conduct a strand test to see how your hair reacts to the bleach. This will help you determine the processing time and whether your hair can handle the bleach without excessive damage.
- Deep Conditioning Treatment: Prior to bleaching, use a deep conditioning treatment to hydrate and strengthen your hair. This will provide an extra layer of protection against the harsh chemicals in bleach.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about bleaching your relaxed hair, consider consulting a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best approach for achieving your desired results safely.
- Prepare for Aftercare: Plan for aftercare by investing in quality moisturizing and reparative hair products. Post-bleach care is essential to maintain the integrity and health of your relaxed hair.
What Aftercare Steps Are Essential Following Bleaching Relaxed Hair?
Aftercare for bleached relaxed hair is crucial to maintain its health and appearance.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Use a high-quality deep conditioner regularly to restore moisture and improve hair elasticity. Bleaching can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, so a good deep conditioner helps to replenish lost hydration and nourish the hair shaft.
- Protein Treatments: Incorporating protein treatments into your routine is essential after bleaching, as they help to strengthen the hair and repair damage. Relaxed hair, especially after bleaching, can become weak and prone to breakage, so using a protein treatment can reinforce the hair structure.
- Moisturizing Products: Opt for leave-in conditioners and moisturizing creams specifically formulated for relaxed hair. These products provide ongoing hydration and help to keep the hair manageable and soft, counteracting the drying effects of bleach.
- Heat Protection: Always apply a heat protectant before using any heat styling tools, such as blow dryers or flat irons. Bleached hair is more susceptible to heat damage, so a heat protectant creates a barrier that minimizes the risk of further damage during styling.
- Regular Trims: Schedule regular trims to remove split ends and maintain the overall health of your hair. Trimming the hair every 6-8 weeks can prevent further splitting and breakage, helping your hair to look healthier and more vibrant.
- Gentle Washing and Drying: Use sulfate-free shampoos and avoid vigorous towel drying to prevent additional stress on your hair. Gentle cleansing products help to maintain moisture balance, while patting your hair dry with a soft towel reduces friction and potential breakage.
- Sun Protection: Protect your hair from UV rays when spending time outdoors by wearing a hat or using hair products that contain UV filters. Prolonged sun exposure can exacerbate dryness and fading in bleached hair, so shielding it from the sun is important for longevity.
Which Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Bleaching Relaxed Hair?
When bleaching relaxed hair, there are several common mistakes to avoid to maintain hair health and achieve the desired results.
- Choosing the Wrong Bleach: Using a bleach not formulated for relaxed hair can lead to severe damage.
- Skipping the Strand Test: Failing to perform a strand test can result in unexpected outcomes and hair breakage.
- Not Considering Your Hair’s Health: Ignoring the condition of your relaxed hair before bleaching can exacerbate existing damage.
- Applying Bleach on Wet Hair: Bleaching wet hair can dilute the product and lead to uneven results.
- Overprocessing: Leaving bleach on too long can severely damage relaxed hair, leading to dryness and breakage.
- Neglecting Aftercare: Skipping post-bleach care can result in prolonged damage, leading to brittle and unhealthy hair.
Choosing the Wrong Bleach: It’s crucial to select a bleach specifically designed for relaxed hair, as these products typically contain ingredients that minimize damage and provide more controlled lightening. Using a standard bleach may not account for the altered structure of relaxed hair, leading to excessive weakening and breakage.
Skipping the Strand Test: A strand test helps you gauge how your hair will react to the bleach, allowing you to adjust timing and formulation accordingly. This step is vital because it reveals the potential for damage and gives insight into the final color result, preventing unpleasant surprises during the actual process.
Not Considering Your Hair’s Health: Assessing the current health of your relaxed hair is essential before bleaching, as damaged hair is more prone to breakage. If your hair is already weak or over-processed, it may be wise to delay bleaching until it is in better condition to avoid catastrophic results.
Applying Bleach on Wet Hair: Wet hair can absorb bleach differently, potentially leading to uneven lightening and unpredictable results. It is generally recommended to apply bleach on dry hair to ensure even distribution and more accurate processing times.
Overprocessing: Bleaching for too long can lead to overprocessing, which strips the hair of its natural moisture and can cause irreparable damage. It’s important to follow the recommended processing times and check the hair regularly to avoid this common pitfall.
Neglecting Aftercare: Proper aftercare is essential following a bleach treatment to restore moisture and repair the hair. Using deep conditioning treatments and hydrating products can help maintain the integrity of relaxed hair after bleaching, preventing long-term damage and brittleness.
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