This article details a comprehensive comparison of three popular bleach powders – BW2, Quick Blue, and Kiss Lift Up – for lightening knots in hair extensions, specifically focusing on their efficacy in achieving a consistently light and even base color. The experiment involved bleaching identical hair samples using each product under controlled conditions, meticulously documenting the process from preparation to final results. The goal was to identify the best bleach for achieving a seamless blend with the client's scalp, minimizing the need for additional color correction.The test involved careful preparation of the hair, ensuring even application of each bleach, and precise timing. Each bleach powder's performance was assessed based on its ability to achieve a consistently light blonde without leaving undesirable brassy or orange tones, ultimately determining which product provides the most efficient and effective bleaching process for hair professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The results reveal a clear winner, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to achieve professional-level results when lightening knots in hair extensions.
Pros And Cons
- Delivered expected results.
- Provided a smooth application.
- Allowed for easy coloring and toning to any skin tone.
- Bleached very well.
- Orange and brassy, even after toning.
- Orange patches in the lace.
- Requires skillful application to avoid darkening.
Read more: Bleaching My Hair Using Clairol KaleidoColors: A Personal Journey
Preparing the Hair
I started with a frontal from a beauty supply store. The hair needed to be prepped before bleaching. This involved carefully removing the hair from the frontal and trimming it to create smaller pieces resembling closures.
To prevent the hair from bunching during the bleaching process, I sprayed it with Tresemme holding spray and brushed it back. This ensured even bleaching and prevented tangles.
Protective gear is crucial. I emphasized wearing gloves at all times when handling bleach to avoid skin irritation and damage.
Mixing the Bleaches
I used one scoop of each bleach powder: Kiss Lift Up, Quick Blue, and BW2. The consistency is key. I used 30 volume developer for a yogurt-like consistency, not too thick, nor too runny.
For the Kiss Lift Up bleach, I emptied the entire remaining package because it had only a small amount left.
Adjusting the developer is acceptable if needed to achieve the desired consistency. If it becomes too chunky, add more developer.
Bleaching Process
I applied each bleach mixture to a separate closure using a brush applicator. I used a lighter hand for application, but since these were beauty supply closures, I used a slightly heavier hand due to the knot's resistance to bleaching.
Each closure was wrapped in aluminum foil to maintain heat and promote even bleaching. The bleaching time for each was 30 minutes; I did not check them during the process.
After the bleaching process, I used blue shampoo to tone out any brassiness or orange tones from the bleach.
Results and Review
The Kiss Lift Up (blue-based) didn't deliver the expected results; I found orange spots on the lace, which was not acceptable for a blue-based bleaching powder.
Quick Blue (blue-based) provided a clean bleach; resulting in an even, lightened base ready for further customization. It showed excellent scalp coverage and minimized the need for excessive makeup or tinting to match a client's skin tone.
BW2 (white-based) bleached well but left an orange and brassy tone, requiring more effort for color correction to achieve a natural, blendable result on various skin tones.
Conclusion
Based on the test, Quick Blue emerged as the superior choice for bleaching knots. Its blue-based formula provided an even, lightened base, easily customizable to various skin tones. It minimized the need for color correction and offered the best overall result for seamless integration into any client's hair.
While BW2 and Kiss Lift Up bleached the hair, they left undesirable tones that required additional work, impacting overall efficiency. The Kiss Lift Up performed particularly poorly in this aspect.
For professionals and those seeking a superior bleaching experience, Quick Blue is the clear winner, offering excellent results with minimal effort and time.