11 Best Hair Bleach Kits Of 2024, A Hairstylist’s Top Recommendations
Save on the trips to the salon with these easy-to-apply and top-quality bleach kits.
Andrea CottinHairstylist
Andrea is a hairstylist with 15 years of experience in the salon industry. She loves working closely with her clients to help them look and feel their best. Andrea stays updated on the latest haircutting and coloring techniques by taking up... more
oyendrila kanjilalMA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
Image: Shutterstock
Long gone are those cumbersome days when you needed a salon appointment and an expert hair stylist to refresh your hair color. With the best hair bleach kits from new and reputed brands alike storming the market, you can now bleach your hair without ever stepping out! Of course, bleaching your locks can be messy, but the kits we’ve rounded up for you are the next best thing to a professional-grade and provide excellent hair salon-like results. They come with easy-to-follow instructions at the back so that you can achieve your dream look in a few easy steps. Take a look!
In This Article
What Is Hair Bleaching?
Hair bleaching is a chemical procedure involving stripping the pigment (color) from the hair strands to lighten the color. Each hair shade has different levels of pigment to dissolve through. For instance, dark hair needs intense bleaching as it has more pigments. Hair bleaching depends on the hair condition, type, and natural color. The longer you leave the bleach on your hair, the more pigment is dissolved and the lighter the hair becomes.
Here is how hair bleaching works.
How Does Hair Bleaching Work?
The hair bleach oxidizes the hair pigment (melanin) from the hair shafts to fade the color. The two most commonly used bleaching agents are hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. Some brands may mix the two agents to rapidly reduce hair color levels, speed up the bleaching process, and give faster results. However, they can be quite harsh on your hair. That is why some manufacturers avoid peroxide and ammonia in their products. Instead, they use other active ingredients and oxidizing agents.
Here are our top picks of the 12 best hair bleach kits you can use at home.
11 Best Hair Bleach Kits You Can Use At Home
1.Best Vegan Formula:Manic Panic Amplified Flash Lightning Complete Maximum Hair Lightening Kit- 40 Volume
Get the pre-coloring step right and perfect the desired look with the Manic Panic’s Flash Lightning Hair Bleach Kit. It is easy to use, gentle on hair, and lightens up to seven levels, ensuring the best bleaching results. The kit includes a 40 volume cream developer, a mixing tub, a tint brush, a plastic cup, and one set of plastic gloves. There is also an instruction manual to make the whole process easier. This bleach kit is perfect for dark brown and black hair and gives medium to very blonde results. Determine your hair inspiration and get started with bleaching the tresses. Take a look at this tester’s experience video to know more about the hair product.
Volume: 40 volume | Item Form: Cream developer | Levels Of Lift: 7 | Desired Hair Color: Medium to very light blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 1.06 oz
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Cruelty-free (PETA accredited)
- PPD-free
- Ammonia-free
- Phthalate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Resorcinol-free
Cons
- May cause dryness and breakage
Remember2.Best Cruelty-Free Formula:‘N Rage Bleach & Toner Kit
If you want an all-in-one bleaching and toning formula, go for the ‘N Rage Bleach & Toner Kit. The 2-step process with off-the-scalp 10-minute gentle formula is easily activated with the 40 volume activator for fast and excellent results. And that is not all – the kit also reduces dullness with the white-out conditioning toner that leaves your hair soft and lustrous. This hair-lightening product kit preps your hair for frosting and highlighting. It can help you lighten your hair to ash and pastel shades. You may check more about this product in this reviewer’s experience video.
Volume: 40 volume | Item Form: Activator | Levels Of Lift: 6 | Desired Hair Color: Maximum lightening | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 4.8 oz
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Easy to use
Cons
- Insufficient quantity for long hair
3.Best Cruelty-Free Formula:Arctic Fox Bleach Please Complete Hair Lightening Kit
The Arctic Fox Bleach Please Complete Hair Lightening Kit lifts hair to 8 levels. This vegetable-based cream bleach includes a 35 volume developer and latex-free gloves to touch up your roots. It is developed with Polycarp Split Therapy, a patented technology that helps prevent split ends. The gentle formula is infused with nourishing ingredients like acai to prevent hair loss, cocoa seed butter to strengthen and moisturize your hair, sunflower seed oil to boost hair hydration level, and castor oil to strengthen the hair. It also contains mango seed butter with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and papaya fruit extract to prevent dandruff and stimulate circulation. This hair-lightening kit also contains a violet base to help counteract post-bleaching unwanted yellow or brassy tones. This is a perfect hair bleach product kit for medium to short-cropped hair but you might need at least three bleaching kits for long, thick, and coarse hair. Check out this video to get an upclose review of the product.
Volume: 35 volume | Item Form: Cream developer | Levels Of Lift: 8 | Desired Hair Color: Dark to medium blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 11.99 oz
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Includes latex-free gloves
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Insufficient quantity
"This bleach kit has been amazing in removing strong pigments from my hair without causing significant damage. It provides a fizzing sensation that indicates that the product is working. My hair feels soft and looks hydrated after using it. Although its strong odor is a drawback, its overall effectiveness makes it a good product."
| Manic Panic Amplified Flash Lightning Complete Maximum Hair Lightening Kit- 40 Volume Best Vegan Formula | N Rage Bleach & Toner Kit Best Cruelty-Free Formula | Arctic Fox Bleach Please Complete Hair Lightening Kit Best Cruelty-Free Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 | - | - |
| Hair Type | Dry | - | - |
| Dimensions | 2.4 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches | 6 x 4 x 3 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.06 Ounces | 4.8 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 18,059 | 134 | - |
| Price | $12.99 | $15 | $19.99 |
4. Best For All Coloring Techniques:Schwarzkopf Blondme Premium Lightener 9+
The Schwarzkopf Blondme Premium Lightener 9+ is a powder formulation that offers an unbeatable 9 levels of lift. It is suitable for techniques like highlighting, lightning, and neutralization. The bond-enforcing treatment comes with integrated bonding technology. This helps in enforcing strong structural bonds by interlinking the hair fibers. The technology also helps in minimizing hair breakage and damage. In addition, it can help lift both natural and color-treated hair. You can easily mix the lightening dust-free bleach powder with a developer in any ratio to get a creamy consistency that works best for you. Laura Kate Lucas, a fashion and lifestyle blogger, tried the lightener at home. She writes, “I am honestly super impressed with the results… Finding how to do it and learning the whole process was probably the hardest part. Now, I feel a bit more like I know what I’m doing. I’ll hopefully be able to work on top of my roots and do this more regularly! (i).”
Volume: 30 volume | Item Form: Cream developer | Levels Of Lift: 9 | Desired Hair Color: Very light blonde | Type: Permanent | Weight: 15.8 oz
Pros
- Protects hair fibers
- Neutralizes any warm undertones
- Flexible mixing ratio
- Workable consistency
- Dust-free
- Easy to use
Cons
None
5. Best For Light & Dark Hair:Punky Colour Lightning Fast 40 Volume Bleach Kit
This hair bleaching kit by Punky Colour is an all-in-one kit that contains everything you need for fuss-free hair bleaching. The 40-volume developer works quickly for maximum effect, while the bleach ensures that the hair lightens evenly. You can use this kit for streaking, tipping, frosting, and lightening hair. The kit is suitable for naturally dark and light hair. So, test it out now and flaunt your gorgeous tresses!
Volume: 40 volume | Item Form: Cream developer | Levels Of Lift: 8 | Desired Hair Color: Medium to very light blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 5.29 oz
Pros
- Easy to use
- Cruelty-free
- Includes instruction guide
Cons
None
"This hair lightener has worked pretty well on my dark hair with two applications. I do not see any dryness or brittleness which is a plus. It also repairs my hair bonds and gives my hair a healthy look overall."
6. Best Ammonia-Free Formula:Brite Bleach Kit
The Brite Bleach Kit has a dust-free and ammonia-free formula that can lift and lighten your hair up to 8 levels. It includes everything you need to bleach your hair and is ideal for pre-lightening. The low odor formula contains a mix of protective emollients that lighten your hair without any damage and scalp irritation. The kit can be tested on all hair types.
Volume: 30 volume | Item Form: Peroxide | Levels Of Lift: 8 | Desired Hair Color: Medium to very light blonde | Type: Temporary | Weight: 5.61 oz
Pros
- Dust-free
- Ammonia-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
"I can say all the good things about this product. It is gentle and has a mild odor which is unique. It does the job quickly without turning my hair straw-like. I love the coverage I get out of just one box. It also never itches or burns my scalp."
7. Best For All Hair Types:BRAE Bond Angel Plex Hair Bond Reconstructor
The BRAE Bond Angel Plex Hair Bond Reconstructor is a complete kit and contains three products. The first product is a bottle of Bond Maker and the other two bottles contain Bond Reconstructor. These form the two steps of the kit that act as a barrier to protect hair during bleaching. This kit has made achieving lighter hair color, like the perfect platinum blonde base easy. It makes your hair look flawless and silky smooth. It will also ensure that your scalp stays protected and there is minimal damage and breakage. The breakthrough formula also improves hair growth and strength and protects its barrier. It enhances softness and shine and makes your tresses more manageable. You can also use the hair lightener kit without bleach to restore already damaged hair due to hair dye or hair styling.
Volume: Not included | Item Form: Liquid | Levels Of Lift: 8 | Desired Hair Color: Icy blonde | Type: Temporary | Weight: 10.56 oz
Pros
- Easy to use
- Makes hair more manageable
- Protects hair from damage
- Improves hair strength
- Can be used as a standalone treatment
- Enhances hair color vibrancy
Cons
None
"This kit bleaches my hair effectively without damaging its roots and causing hair breakage. Instead, it restores the moisture level of my hair and repairs split ends. My hair has become stronger and looks healthier after using it."
8. Best For Hair Protection:JKS International All Plex Bond Treatment Bleaching Kit
The JKS International All Plex Bond Treatment Bleaching Kit is all you need to restore the natural hair structure during bleaching and other chemical hair treatments. The kit contains two bottles of bond treatment. The belaching kit is easy to use, just mix the bond maker with the bleaching powder and use it on your hair. This step keeps your hair protected and minimizes breakage during the bleaching process. The second bottle contains the bond reinforcer. Use it after you bleach your hair for deep nourishment and to seal the hair cuticles for color protection. It is suitable for all hair types and is effective on dark blonde to dark brown hair. It also offers root regrowth coverage.
Volume: Not included | Item Form: Cream | Levels Of Lift: 8 | Desired Hair Color: Very light blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 0.01 oz
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can be used as a standalone treatment
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
"This hair care system is versatile. I can use it with colors, perms, bleach, and even relaxers. It reduces breakage and makes my hair soft. It is according to me ideal for those seeking reliable hair maintenance."
9. Best Color-Safe Option:Punky Colour Intrabond Lightning Fast 40 Vol Bleach Kit
This hair bleaching kit by Punky Colour is gentle and non-damaging to your hair, and offers up to seven levels of lift. You can use this kit for highlighting, bleaching, and frosting. The product is formulated with an advanced Intrabond Complex that promotes hair bond reconstruction in chemically-treated hair to give intense shine and deep conditioning treatment. The kit is easy to use and gives you professional results at home.
Volume: 40 volume | Item Form: Cream peroxide | Levels Of Lift: 7 | Desired Hair Color: Light blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 11.36 oz
Pros
- Easy to use
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Color-safe
Cons
None
"This bleach kit successfully bleaches my dark hair and turns it into a sandy beige tone. It has a serum and hair mask that works wonderfully in conditioning and softening my hair post-bleaching it. However, I feel the coverage could have been better. Overall, I like its effects."
10. Best No-Drip Formula:KISS Lift Up Complete Bleach & Tone Kit
Getting the perfectly ice-toned silver hair is now easy with the Kiss Lift Up Complete Bleach & Tone Kit. It has a no-drip formula that is easy to use and gentle on your hair. The kit includes a powder lightener and crème developer to bleach the hair blonde and a toning treatment to minimize brassiness and give it the silver hue.
Volume: 40 volume | Item Form: Cream developer | Levels Of Lift: 9 | Desired Hair Color: Icy blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 10.4 oz
Pros
- Non-drip
- Easy to use
- Gentle
Cons
None
"This kit is quite user-friendly. It lifts the dark pigments of my hair easily without burning my scalp. I love the ash-blonde tone it has provided to my hair. The toner is effective in eliminating the brassiness and the overall result is appealing."
11. Best Nourishing Formula:Kiss Lift Up Complete Bleach Kit
The Kiss Lift Up Complete Bleach Kit has a maximum strength formula to lighten unbleached, dark, and resistant hair. The nourishing and non-damaging formula contains hair conditioning ingredients to provide maximum lift without drying the hair. It is safe and easy to use and includes a brush, plastic gloves, and tray. A personal blogger on YouTube used the kit to bleach and tone her hair. She says, “I really like the bleach. It worked really well [on my hair]. I could definitely tell that it was a professional-grade [product.] It got all of it, right down to the roots. Just awesome (ii).”
Volume: 40 volume | Item Form: Cream developer | Levels Of Lift: 7 | Desired Hair Color: Very light blonde | Type: Semi-permanent | Weight: 7.36 oz
Pros
- Easy to use
- Non-drip formula
- Gentle
Cons
None
"This bleach kit lifts the dark pigments of my hair satisfactorily, leaving my hair with a beautiful blonde tone. The revitalizing serum which comes in the kit softens my hair and improves its shine. Overall, it's an effective option for those seeking a DIY bleaching solution."
Bleaching your hair at home can be a bit tricky. You need to follow the instructions properly. Otherwise, you may experience hair damage and breakage. Also, keep in mind not to bleach your hair extensions to prevent any damage to the texture. Here are a few tips to avoid the damaging effects of bleaching.
Things To Consider Before Bleaching Hair
- Determine Your Hair Health
Bleaching agents are harsh and damaging. Hence, consider your hair’s overall health before bleaching. If you have dry, brittle, and damaged hair or recently underwent any chemical treatment like hair straightening or hair perming, wait for at least two weeks before bleaching. Dyed, permed, or highlighted hair is also not suitable for the bleaching process as it may damage your hair further.
- Avoid Washing Your Hair
Do not wash your hair a day or two before bleaching to prevent washing out the natural oils. They work as a protective barrier between the strands and the bleach. It is fine if your hair is a little greasy as it will not affect the bleach results or color payoff. Many top hair color brands add vegetable oils to their formulas to minimize hair damage while bleaching.
- Do Not Use Heat Styling Tools A Week Before Bleaching
Heat styling tools like rollers, hair straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers may cause damage to your hair by stripping the natural moisture and oils. Avoid using these hair styling tools for at least a week before bleaching as your hair needs time to recover from this damage. Also, keep the strands moisturized as much as possible before bleaching.
- Use A Hair Mask
Use a hair mask to deeply condition your hair and prepare it to withstand the bleaching process. You can apply hydrating hair masks a week before bleaching and use nourishing oils like coconut and olive oils to keep the hair moisturized. You may also use a DIY mask by mixing yogurt, honey, banana, avocado, etc., to prevent hair damage.
- Consult A Professional
Always consult a professional hair colorist or hairstylist for hair bleaching. They can determine the hair condition and help you understand if your hair is fit for bleaching. They can also guide you on pre-and post-bleach maintenance to help minimize hair damage. You can also follow the expert-recommended tips discussed below to care for your hair after bleaching.
Hair Bleaching Aftercare Tips
- Use Hair Masks
Use nourishing hair masks that contain hydrating and moisturizing ingredients like vegetable oils, aloe vera, honey, and avocado. They can help restore hair softness and elasticity. A good shampoo and conditioner to use post-bleaching is Kevin Murphy’s Blonde Angel. It is violet toned to counteract any warm tones that might exist. It’s also extremely moisturizing for your newly blonde hair.
- Avoid Heat Styling
The hair tends to dry out after bleaching and becomes vulnerable to heat damage. Therefore, avoid using blow dryers, curling tongs, and straightening irons for at least a week or two after bleaching. When using the tools, make sure you keep the temperature to a minimum and use it only once or twice a week.
- Use Leave-In Conditioner
Leave-in conditioners contain emollients that lock in moisture and help revive and restore your hair. You may also try in-shower conditioning treatments to keep your hair healthy.
- Avoid Chlorinated Water
Chlorinated water can weaken the bleached hair strands and give it a brassy blonde, greenish hue, or carrot-orange tint. Avoid diving into the swimming pool at least for two weeks after you have bleached your hair. After that, you can use a swim cap to protect your hair from further damage.
- Comb Your Hair Only When Wet
Bleached hair is vulnerable and prone to snags and tangles. Use a wide-toothed comb or a wet brush with flexible bristles to detangle and comb your hair.
- Go For A Hair Trim
One of the most crucial aftercare tips for bleached hair is trimming off the split ends and easily getting rid of damaged hair. Ask your hairdresser to trim off two to three inches.
- Wash Your Hair Less Often
The hair is weak and susceptible to breakage during the first two weeks post bleaching. Therefore, avoid frequent shampooing. Wash your hair once every three to four days and use sulfate-free shampoos. You can also stretch the wash days by incorporating a dry shampoo into your hair care routine.
- Add A Hair Oil To Your Routine
Adding a nourishing oil to your hair care routine will help hydrate and protect roughed-up cuticles from the bleaching process. It will also make your hair shiny, frizz-free, and manageable.
- Avoid Hair Accessories
Do not use tight hair ties or clips on your bleached hair to avoid breakage and damage. Also, do not tie your hair in tight hairstyles to avoid stress and tangles.
Hair bleaching needs to be done carefully. Otherwise, you may end up with patchy hair and brassy-orangish tint. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using A Hair Bleach
- Not reading the package instructions properly
- Skipping the strand test before hair bleaching
- Leaving the bleach on your hair for long
- Not using deep conditioning treatments before and after bleaching
- Bleaching your hair too frequently
- Bleaching damaged or over-processed hair
Infographic: Hair Bleach Kit: A Complete Guide
Bleaching your hair is not an easy decision to make. But, after you have decided to go ahead with it, make sure you invest in the right kits and do it the right way. Remember that it can go very wrong, if not done properly. So, we have put together a quick guide to help you on your bleaching journey. Check out the infographic below! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
These 11 best hair bleaching kits on the market match the recent hair trends and make the color treatment look like child’s play. If you are a beginner, the BTZ Radical Bleach Kit will be the best pick for you. If you want a vegan product, the Arctic Fox Bleach Please Complete Hair Lightening Kit is the best, and if you want a complete bleach and tone kit, go for the ‘N Rage Bleach & Toner Kit. Always ensure to go ahead with hair specialist-approved bleach kits that promise visible results with minimal hair damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wash my hair before bleaching?
No, you should not wash your hair immediately before bleaching it. This may strip the natural oils and make the strands vulnerable to harsh bleaching ingredients.
Can you bleach greasy hair?
Yes, you can bleach slightly greasy hair. However, the bleach may not set on excessive greasy and oily hair.
Can you bleach wet hair?
No. Wet hair is vulnerable to damage, and bleaching may cause breakage.
How long do you leave bleach in your hair?
It may vary. However, it is best to leave the bleach on your hair for not more than 15-30 minutes.
How often can you use hair bleach?
You can bleach your hair once every 8 to 10 weeks.
How do you bleach dark hair without turning it orange?
After bleaching, you have to use a toning solution to minimize orange tint and brassiness.
Is it worth bleaching your hair at home?
Yes, you can easily bleach your hair at home using proper techniques.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach and loves to experiment with her hair. She has consulted hair experts to understand and highlight all aspects of the at-home bleaching process. She has rounded up the list with the help of the experts and after going through hundreds of online reviews.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) Laura Kate Lucas
https://laurakatelucas.com/2020/06/25/schwarzkopf-blondme/
(ii) Sustainable Beauty
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdMn9yctLDc
