Looking to add some vibrant color to your hair, but hesitant about the bleaching process? This DIY project details my experience using the Manic Panic Flash Lightning kit to bleach just the ends of my hair, creating a stylish ombre effect. I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, from mixing the bleach (a crucial step!) to application techniques and crucial timing considerations. This review focuses on achieving a lighter shade at the ends, perfect for those wanting to add highlights or a subtle ombre without the commitment of a full head bleach. I'll share my tips and tricks to minimize damage and achieve even, consistent results.This review focuses specifically on using the Manic Panic Flash Lightning kit for bleaching hair ends, not a full head bleach. My dark brown hair achieved a light ginger-orange blonde, a result I found satisfying for an at-home, DIY project. Learn from my experience, including the challenges of using the provided brush on curly hair and the importance of monitoring bleaching time to avoid over-processing. Discover whether this kit is the right choice for your at-home lightening needs and how to achieve the best results, even if you're a beginner.
Pros And Cons
- Lightened hair
- Powder produced dust
- Small mixing tub
- Can fizz up excessively if shaken
- May require two kits for thick hair
Read more: Bleaching My Hair Using Clairol KaleidoColors: A Personal Journey
Preparing the Bleach Mixture
I decided to bleach the ends of my hair using a Manic Panic Flash Lightning kit, a product often recommended for vibrant hair dyes. The kit included bleaching powder, cream developer, a mixing tub, brush, cap, and gloves. Important note: Don't shake the mixture! It fizzes up aggressively. The scent was surprisingly pleasant, smelling faintly of ice cream.
Mixing the bleach is crucial. The small tub makes it essential to use gentle brush strokes to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution. I divided my hair into sections using elastics for easier application. Remember to work in small areas to prevent uneven bleaching.
Application Process and Timing
I focused on the ends of my hair, leaving the roots untouched due to their health and sensitivity. The brush provided wasn't ideal for my curly hair, so I applied it section by section. It's critical to ensure that all sections get an equal amount of bleaching time for a consistent result.
Be mindful of the bleaching time. I aimed for an hour to lighten my dark brown hair without causing excessive damage. Remember to check the lightness every 10 minutes, and avoid over-processing. Platinum blonde might require professional help for safety and better results.
Results and Final Thoughts
After an hour, my hair was a light ginger-orange blonde. I was pleased with the results, considering I only bleached the ends. It achieved a nice ombre effect, lighter on the ends and transitioning to my natural dark brown. The bleaching process caused minimal damage.
For a full head bleach, consider buying two kits, especially with thick hair. While I achieved a lighter shade, those seeking platinum blonde should opt for professional help. Overall, I recommend the Manic Panic Flash Lightning kit for at-home bleaching, but careful monitoring is key. It's great for ombre or adding lighter highlights.