Thinking of going platinum blonde this summer? Or already deep into a bleach-heavy hair journey? Then you may have come across a frustrating side effect: bleached hair breakage. As we all know, dyed hair can create a show-stopping, super-bright transformation. But all those chemicals in commercial byes come with serious risks to hair health if not managed carefully. From frayed ends to thinning strands, bleach-induced breakage is far more common than you might think. And if left untreated, it can lead to long-term damage that’s tough to reverse.
Read on as we break down what bleached hair breakage really is, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent it. Plus, we’ll share some essential dos and don’ts — and the best ways to restore your hair’s strength from the inside out.
What Is Bleached Hair Breakage?
Bleached hair breakage is when strands become so weak and brittle from chemical processing that they begin to snap, fray or fall out. The worst of the problem is usually seen around the mid-lengths and ends. However, breakage can occur anywhere along the shaft. The result leaves hair looking brittle, uneven, and lacking volume. A groundbreaking study found that hair exposed to repeated chemical bleaching can lose over 50% of its protein content, weakening the core structure of each strand. Since hair is made up of as much as 95% keratin — a fibrous protein — this kind of degradation can have a dramatic impact on strength and elasticity.
Why Does Bleach Cause Breakage?
Hair bleach works by opening the hair cuticle and breaking down its natural pigment (melanin) using chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and ammonium persulfate. The process is very effective at removing the current colour. But as well as stripping the hair of protein, bleached hair is more porous, which means it loses hydration faster and absorbs environmental stressors more easily
Once the protective cuticle layer around the hair shaft is compromised, the inner cortex becomes vulnerable. Without intervention, this leads to dryness, frizz, and eventually breakage.
What Factors Increase The Risk?
- Several underlying factors can make hair far more vulnerable to breakage after bleaching:
- Multiple bleaching sessions (especially close together)
- Fine or already damaged hair
- Inadequate aftercare
- Overuse of heat styling tools (again!!)
- Poor nutrition or lack of internal support for hair health
How Common Is Bleached Hair Breakage?
Very. While many people bleach their hair with no issues initially, repeated or improper bleaching dramatically raises the risk of damage and breakage.
Signs Your Hair Might Be Breaking
Signs of bleached hair breakage can include uneven, frayed or “feathery” ends, and a sudden increase in split ends. You might notice that your hair feels stretchy when wet but snaps easily, or that there’s noticeable thinning, particularly around the crown and sides. Strands may start to feel rough, dry, or even gummy to the touch, and styling can take longer due to increased tangling and matting. These symptoms often build up gradually, but they’re clear indicators that your hair’s structural integrity has been compromised.
What To Do (and Not Do) About It
DO:
STOP BLEACHING!
Ideally, avoid commercial dyes altogether. Harsh chemicals such ammonia, PPD and hydrogen peroxide are just not good for your hair health! There are many natural alternatives to colouring of hair. They might not be as effective, but you can get great results without all the hair harm.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Make deep conditioning a weekly ritual with the Hair Gain Hair Mask, a rich treatment designed to restore moisture, reduce breakage, and revive overprocessed strands. For daily hydration and scalp support, use the lightweight Hair Gain Scalp Foam to nourish at the root and promote stronger, healthier hair growth.
Support From The Inside Out
A good diet is a must for any hair health regimen. Foods rich in protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and are a must. Think leafy greens, eggs, oily fish, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. That said, fast-paced lives can make it tricky to eat perfectly every day. Which is where great supplementation can really bridge any gaps. Hair Gain’s scientifically formulated Hair Capsules and Hair Gummies both feature the powerful AnaGain™ complex, along with essential hair vitamins and nutrients like biotin, helping to support strength, thickness, and resilience right from the root.
DON’T:
If you simply cannot live without your hair dye, then these are some things that should be avoided.
- Bleach over breakage: If your hair is already compromised, re-bleaching can cause damage that will become progressively more difficult to fix.
- Brush aggressively: Always use a wide-tooth comb and detangle from ends to roots. Our Hair Gain Comb is the perfect tool for the job.
- Use heat styling daily: If you must use these tools, lower the temperature and always use a heat protectant.
- Ever use any dye without carrying out a patch test first.
- Expect overnight results: Restoring bleached hair takes time and consistency.
Can Hair Recover From Bleach Breakage?
Yes — with the right care. Consistent treatment, better styling habits, and the right nutritional and topical support will all help encourage stronger, healthier hair over time. For many, a full recovery also includes trimming away the most damaged areas. A fresh cut can reduce tangling, remove split ends, and help hair look instantly healthier, so get down to the salon! And of course, do not expect overnight results. Fixing bleached hair breakage needs a holistic approach, which takes time and consistency.
Rebuilding From Within: The Hair Gain Approach
At Hair Gain, we believe that strong, beautiful hair starts from the inside out. Whether you’re navigating the fallout from bleach or just want to build your hair’s natural strength before going lighter, our range of supplements, topicals, and accessories are here to support you.
With the right knowledge, habits, and support, strong, vibrant hair is absolutely within reach — whatever colour it is.
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