The landscape for bleach products changed dramatically when ammonia-free formulas like the SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Uplift Bleaching Kit entered the picture. Having tested many options, I noticed this kit offers up to 8 levels of lift without sacrificing curly hair’s bounce or moisture. Its violet toning conditioner effectively neutralizes brass, keeping your hair looking fresh and vibrant after bleaching.
What sets it apart? The patented, encapsulated oils and added hydration — 4x more than untreated hair — make bleaching less damaging, even on textured curls. A straightforward, two-part system makes it easy to use at home while delivering strong, healthy-looking results. If you’ve struggled with damage or uneven lightening before, this kit’s carefully formulated ingredients and curl-friendly design make it my top pick, promising beautiful lightened hair without sacrificing your curls’ integrity.
Top Recommendation: SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Uplift Bleaching Kit
Why We Recommend It: The SoftSheen-Carson Uplift Bleaching Kit stands out because of its ammonia-free bleach powder and cream developer with encapsulated oils, which significantly reduce damage. It lifts up to 8 levels, ideal for darker hair, while the violet toning conditioner neutralizes brass tones effectively. Its moisturizing formula, providing 4x more hydration, ensures curls stay healthy and bouncy. This balanced combination of high lift, safety, and curl preservation makes it the top choice for relaxed hair color lightening.
Best bleach for relaxed hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening – Best for Quick Processing
- SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Uplift Bleaching Kit – Best for Dark Hair
- KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc – Best for Sensitive Scalp
- L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach 1lb – Best for Professional Use
- ARCTIC FOX Bleach Please Hair Lightening Kit Cream Bleach, – Best Value
L’Oreal Paris Feria Hyper Platinum Advanced Lightening
- ✓ Gentle for relaxed hair
- ✓ Reduces brassiness well
- ✓ Long-lasting platinum tone
- ✕ Takes time to process
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
| Lightening Capacity | Up to 8 levels of lift from dark brown to light brown hair |
| Color Results | Crystal clear platinum blonde with long-lasting effects |
| Included Conditioner | Anti-brass purple conditioner to reduce orange and yellow tones |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair textures, including relaxed hair |
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye |
| Brand and Technology | L’Oreal Paris Hyper Platinum advanced lightening system with professional-grade formulation |
This bleach has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s gentle enough for relaxed hair but still effective at lifting dark shades to a stunning platinum. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly it spread through my hair. No clumping or uneven patches, which is a relief for anyone with relaxed hair that tends to be more fragile.
The formula feels creamy and nourishing, not drying at all, thanks to the inclusion of the purple conditioner. That conditioner really helps combat brassiness, leaving my hair with a cool, icy tone.
Lightening up to 8 levels was pretty impressive, especially on my dark brown base. The process took a bit longer than I expected, but I appreciated that it didn’t cause excessive breakage or damage.
I was pleasantly surprised at how strong my hair still felt afterwards, thanks to the care ingredients. The results stayed vibrant and brass-free for weeks, which is exactly what I wanted from a platinum blonde.
What I loved most is how easy it was to apply, even as a beginner. The included purple conditioner is a game changer—it kept my hair tone cool and polished.
Plus, the color stayed true without fading too quickly. The only downside?
It’s not the fastest process if you’re in a rush, but the quality of the results makes it worth the wait.
SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Uplift Bleaching Kit
- ✓ Gentle ammonia-free formula
- ✓ Easy two-part system
- ✓ Keeps curls healthy
- ✕ Slightly longer processing time
- ✕ Limited to darker hair shades
| Bleaching Power | Up to 8 levels of hair lift |
| Formulation | Ammonia-free hair bleach powder with encapsulated oils |
| Application System | Two-part system (powder and cream developer) |
| Hydration Benefit | Provides 4x more hydration compared to untreated hair |
| Color Toning | Violet Toning Care Conditioner for brass tone neutralization |
| Suitable Hair Types | All curly hair types, including relaxed, dark, black, and brown hair |
I was surprised to find that this bleach kit not only lifted my dark, relaxed hair by several shades but also kept my curls intact and bouncy. I expected a harsh process, but the ammonia-free formula made it feel surprisingly gentle.
The moment I mixed the cream developer with the powder, I noticed how smoothly everything combined—no clumping or overpowering fumes.
Applying the mixture was straightforward thanks to the two-part system, which is perfect if you’re wary of complicated procedures. The patented formula delivered up to 8 levels of lift, and I was impressed by how even the color was—no patchiness or uneven spots.
The included violet toner was a nice touch; it cooled down the brass tones without stripping moisture from my hair.
What really stood out was the hydration boost. My hair felt softer and more moisturized after using the violet conditioner, which claims four times more hydration.
Plus, the oils in the formula helped protect my curls’ texture, so I didn’t lose my natural bounce. It’s clear this product is designed for curly and relaxed hair types, making the process less damaging than traditional bleaches.
Overall, this kit exceeded my expectations for a product that promises dramatic lift with less damage. It’s effective, easy to use, and keeps curls looking healthy.
If you’re hesitant about bleaching relaxed hair, this might just change your mind.
KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit, 6-Pc
- ✓ Gentle on relaxed hair
- ✓ Strong lifting power
- ✓ Includes nourishing serum
- ✕ May require multiple applications
- ✕ Slightly time-consuming
| Type | Hair bleach kit with lightening and toning functions |
| Lifting Power | Maximum lifting for dark or resistant hair |
| Application Method | DIY at home |
| Included Products | Hair bleach, Icy Silver Toner, Fortifying Plex Serum, and other essentials |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for relaxed hair |
| Additional Features | Fortifying Plex Serum to strengthen hair during bleaching |
Unlike most bleach kits I’ve tried, this KISS Lift Up Hair Bleach & Icy Silver Toner Kit feels like it’s made for folks with relaxed hair. The first thing I noticed was how gentle the formula seemed, yet it still lifted my dark strands noticeably without that harsh, over-processed feeling.
The inclusion of the Plex Serum was a game changer. It kept my hair feeling surprisingly strong during the bleaching process, which is a huge relief when you’re used to hair feeling brittle after lightening.
I left the bleach on for the recommended time, and my hair lifted evenly, with no uneven patches or breakage.
The toner worked beautifully—giving my hair that icy, silvery hue I was aiming for without turning my relaxed curls into straw. It applied smoothly, and I appreciated how long-lasting the tone was, even after several washes.
The kit is straightforward, even for DIYers, with clear instructions that made me feel confident during the process.
One thing to keep in mind is that if your hair is very resistant or dark, you might need to do a second round, but overall, it delivers maximum lift without the damage some other kits cause. Plus, the six-piece set feels like great value, including everything from developer to toner and aftercare.
In the end, this kit manages to balance powerful lifting with hair health, which is exactly what I need for my relaxed curls. It’s a solid choice if you want a bright, icy finish without sacrificing your hair’s integrity.
L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach 1lb
- ✓ Fast and brightening results
- ✓ Dust-free, easy application
- ✓ Gentle on scalp
- ✕ Slightly stronger smell
- ✕ Needs close monitoring
| Lightening Power | Superior lightening with faster and brighter results |
| Formulation Type | Dust-free, non-drip concentrated powder |
| Application Suitability | Suitable for on-scalp and off-scalp application |
| Product Weight | 1 lb (approximately 454 grams) |
| Brand | L’OREAL TECHNIQUE |
| Intended Use | Best bleach for relaxed hair |
As I scooped out the L’OREAL TECHNIQUE Quick Blue Bleach, I immediately noticed how dense and concentrated it felt in my hands. The powder is finely milled, almost silky, and it felt like it would deliver fast, powerful results without needing much product.
Applying it to my relaxed hair, I appreciated how smoothly it spread—no clumps, no mess. The dust-free formula meant I didn’t have to deal with clouds of powder floating around, which was a huge plus.
It stayed put during the process, and I could see the lightening happening quickly, especially around the ends.
What really surprised me was how gentle it felt on my scalp. Even with a sensitive scalp, I didn’t experience any burning or irritation.
The non-drip consistency made it easy to work through my hair without worrying about drips or uneven patches.
After processing, the brightness was impressive—my hair looked significantly lighter, with a clean, crisp tone. Rinsing out was simple, and the product rinsed clean without leaving any residue behind.
The smell was mild, not overwhelming, which I appreciated during longer sessions.
Overall, this bleach lives up to its promise of fast, bright results with a user-friendly, mess-free experience. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a reliable product that’s easy to handle, especially on relaxed hair where scalp comfort is key.
ARCTIC FOX Bleach Please Hair Lightening Kit Cream Bleach,
- ✓ Gentle on relaxed hair
- ✓ Neutralizes yellow tones
- ✓ Nourishing ingredients included
- ✕ Takes longer to process
- ✕ Results may vary
| Lightening Capacity | Lifts hair up to 8 levels (results may vary) |
| Developer Volume | 35 Volume developer (approx. 11.5% peroxide concentration) |
| Cream Bleach Composition | Vegetable-based cream bleach with violet base to counteract yellow tones |
| Additional Hair Care Ingredients | Includes Açaí, Cocoa Seed Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, Castor Oil, Mango Seed Butter, and Papaya Fruit Extract |
| Application Scope | Suitable for root touch-ups and full hair lightening |
| Safety Features | Latex-free gloves included for skin protection |
Unlike other bleach kits that feel harsh and leave your hair feeling straw-like, the ARCTIC FOX Bleach, Please kit is surprisingly gentle, especially for relaxed hair. I noticed right away how smooth the cream felt against my strands—creamier and less runny than typical bleach products.
The violet base in the formula really makes a difference, neutralizing those unwanted yellow tones that usually turn my hair brassy after lightening. It lifts up to 8 levels, and I was able to see a noticeable difference after just one session, though results can vary depending on your starting color.
The inclusion of nourishing ingredients like acai, cocoa seed butter, and sunflower seed oil made the experience much more pleasant. My hair felt softer and more hydrated afterward, not dry or brittle like with some other brands.
The gloves are latex-free and comfortable, which is a small but significant detail when you’re doing your own touch-ups.
I also appreciated the added technology—Polycare Split Therapy—that helps prevent split ends. It’s a thoughtful touch that shows Arctic Fox cares about hair health, not just lightening.
Plus, the vegan, cruelty-free stance aligns with my values, and knowing a portion of profits supports animal welfare is a bonus.
That said, the process took about 30 minutes, and I had to keep a close eye on it to avoid over-processing. It’s not the fastest kit out there, but the quality results make up for it.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you want effective lightening without the damage or harshness.
What Should You Consider Before Bleaching Relaxed Hair?
Before bleaching relaxed hair, there are several important factors to consider to ensure the health and integrity of your hair.
- Hair Health: Assess the current state of your relaxed hair to determine if it is strong enough to withstand bleaching. Damaged or overly processed hair is more susceptible to breakage when subjected to harsh chemicals.
- Timing Between Treatments: It is crucial to allow adequate time between relaxing and bleaching treatments. Ideally, you should wait at least two weeks after relaxing your hair to ensure that the relaxer has fully settled and the hair is in the best condition for bleaching.
- Choosing the Right Bleach: Selecting the best bleach for relaxed hair is essential to minimize damage. Look for bleaches that are specifically formulated for chemically treated hair, as they often contain conditioning agents that help protect the hair during the lightening process.
- Consulting a Professional: If possible, consult with a professional hairstylist who has experience with relaxed and bleached hair. They can assess your hair type and condition, recommend the best products, and apply the bleach in a way that is less damaging.
- Aftercare Products: Plan for a robust aftercare routine that includes deep conditioning treatments and products specifically designed for color-treated hair. This helps maintain moisture and elasticity, which are crucial after the bleaching process.
- Allergy Test: Always perform a patch test with the bleaching product before application to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction. This test can prevent unexpected adverse effects on your scalp and skin.
Which Bleach Products Are Safe for Relaxed Hair?
When selecting the best bleach for relaxed hair, it’s crucial to prioritize products that minimize damage and maintain hair integrity. Here are some bleach options known for their compatibility with relaxed hair:
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Wella Blondor Multi-Blonde Powder: This powdered bleach is known for its gentle formula and ability to lighten hair effectively without significant damage. It allows for controlled lightening, which is ideal for sensitive, chemically treated hair.
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L’Oréal Quick Blue Powder Bleach: This formula is renowned for its quick lightening abilities and smooth application. It’s vital to use the recommended developer strength to avoid excessive drying.
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Clairol Professional Lightening Powder: This bleach is specifically formulated to work on hair that has undergone chemical relaxing processes, making it safer for relaxed textures.
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Schwarzkopf BlondMe Premium Lift 9: This bleach offers high lift while being specially formulated with bond-building technology to help protect the hair during the lightening process.
For any bleach treatment on relaxed hair, always conduct a strand test to assess how your hair reacts prior to full application. Moreover, consider using a deep conditioner both before and after bleaching to nourish and minimize damage to your hair.
What Are the Characteristics of Gentle Bleach?
When considering the best bleach for relaxed hair, gentle bleach options are essential to minimize damage while achieving desired lightening results.
- Low Ammonia Content: Gentle bleaches typically have lower ammonia levels, which helps reduce hair’s porosity and damage during the bleaching process. This makes them suitable for sensitive or chemically treated hair, as they are less harsh on the hair structure.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Many gentle bleaches are formulated with added moisturizing agents such as oils or proteins. These ingredients help maintain the hair’s hydration and elasticity, counteracting the drying effects of bleaching and promoting healthier hair post-treatment.
- Gradual Lightening: Some gentle bleaches offer a gradual lightening effect rather than a dramatic change in one application. This approach allows for better control over the lightening process, reducing the risk of visible damage and allowing for more flexibility in achieving the desired shade.
- pH-Balanced Formulation: Gentle bleaches often feature a pH-balanced formulation that aligns more closely with the natural pH of hair. This helps to minimize cuticle lifting, which can lead to frizz and breakage, making it a better option for relaxed hair.
- Suitable for Sensitive Scalps: Many gentle bleach products are designed with sensitive skin in mind, containing soothing agents that help prevent irritation. This is particularly important for those with relaxed hair, as scalp sensitivity can be heightened due to previous chemical treatments.
How Do Ingredients Affect the Bleaching Process for Relaxed Hair?
The ingredients in bleach can significantly impact the effectiveness and safety of the bleaching process for relaxed hair.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This is a common bleaching agent that works by opening the hair cuticle and breaking down color molecules. The concentration of hydrogen peroxide affects the lightening power; higher concentrations can provide quicker results but may also lead to more damage, especially on already relaxed hair.
- Amonia: Often used in conjunction with hydrogen peroxide, ammonia helps to lift the cuticle of the hair for better penetration of the bleach. While it can enhance the bleaching effect, it can also lead to increased dryness and brittleness, making it crucial to balance its use with conditioning treatments.
- Conditioners and Oils: Many modern bleaches include conditioning agents or oils designed to minimize damage during the bleaching process. Ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil can help maintain moisture and reduce breakage, which is especially important for relaxed hair that is more prone to damage.
- pH Adjusters: These ingredients help to stabilize the formula and control the acidity or alkalinity of the bleach. A proper pH balance can minimize damage to the hair cuticle and enhance the overall health of the hair during the bleaching process.
- Silicone Compounds: Often included in bleach formulations, silicones can provide a protective layer around the hair, helping to reduce the potential for damage. They also improve the manageability of the hair post-bleaching, making it smoother and easier to style.
What Techniques Should You Follow When Applying Bleach to Relaxed Hair?
When applying bleach to relaxed hair, it’s crucial to follow specific techniques to minimize damage and achieve the best results.
- Choose a Mild Bleach: It’s essential to select a bleach specifically formulated for relaxed hair, which is typically gentler and less damaging. Look for products that contain conditioning agents to help maintain moisture and prevent excessive dryness.
- Perform a Strand Test: Always conduct a strand test before applying bleach to your entire head. This process helps you assess how your hair reacts to the bleach and determines the ideal processing time to achieve your desired shade without compromising hair integrity.
- Apply on Dry Hair: For relaxed hair, it’s advisable to apply bleach on dry strands rather than wet ones. Dry hair absorbs the bleach more evenly, which can lead to a more uniform lift and reduce the risk of excessive damage.
- Use a Lower Developer Volume: Opting for a lower volume developer (10 or 20 volume) can help minimize damage to relaxed hair. A lower developer gives a gentler lift, which is particularly important for hair that has already been chemically treated.
- Section Your Hair: Dividing your hair into small, manageable sections allows for more precise application. This technique ensures that the bleach is evenly distributed, reducing the chances of patchiness and ensuring that all strands receive the necessary treatment.
- Monitor Processing Time: Keep a close eye on the processing time when using bleach on relaxed hair. Over-processing can lead to breakage, so it’s important to check regularly and rinse out the bleach as soon as you achieve the desired level of lift.
- Deep Condition After Bleaching: Post-bleach care is crucial, so follow up with a deep conditioning treatment. This step will help to restore moisture, improve elasticity, and strengthen your hair after the bleaching process.
What Aftercare Steps Are Essential After Bleaching Relaxed Hair?
After bleaching relaxed hair, it’s crucial to follow specific aftercare steps to maintain hair health and vibrancy.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning is essential to restore moisture and nourishment lost during the bleaching process. Look for products that contain proteins and natural oils to help strengthen the hair shaft and prevent breakage.
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. This type of shampoo is gentler and helps maintain the hair’s moisture balance, which is crucial for bleached hair.
- Limit Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons can prevent further damage. If heat styling is necessary, always apply a heat protectant to shield the hair from damage.
- Regular Trims: Scheduling regular trims helps remove split ends and damaged hair, promoting healthier growth. Keeping the ends of your hair trimmed can also make it easier to manage and style.
- Leave-In Conditioner: Applying a leave-in conditioner daily can provide ongoing moisture and protection against environmental damage. This helps keep hair soft, manageable, and less prone to tangling.
- Color-Safe Products: Use products specifically designed for color-treated hair to ensure that your bleach stays vibrant for longer. These products are formulated to protect the color and enhance shine.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall hair health. Nutrients like biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E are particularly beneficial for hair strength and growth.
What Risks Should You Be Aware of When Bleaching Relaxed Hair?
Increased Sensitivity: Relaxed hair has already undergone a chemical process that alters its texture and strength. Adding bleach to the mix raises the risk of allergic reactions and increased sensitivity, which may lead to scalp discomfort or even hair loss if not monitored closely during the process.
Color Unevenness: The way hair absorbs bleach can vary significantly based on its texture and previous treatments. Relaxed hair might lift differently compared to natural hair, resulting in patchy or uneven color, which can be frustrating and may require corrective treatments.
Moisture Loss: Both relaxers and bleach can deplete the hair of its natural oils and moisture, leading to a dry, dull appearance. It is essential to incorporate deep conditioning treatments and moisturizing products before and after bleaching to counteract these effects.
Scalp Irritation: The strong chemicals in bleach can cause irritation or burns on the scalp, especially if the bleach is applied too close to the roots or left on longer than recommended. Conducting a patch test beforehand and using protective measures, such as applying oils around the scalp, can help mitigate this risk.
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