how to lighten hair naturally - #17637
I am really struggling with my hair color right now. I wanted to lighten it a bit, but I don’t want to use any chemical treatments because my scalp can get super sensitive. I've been trying to figure out how to lighten hair naturally for a while now. A friend told me about using honey and cinnamon as a way to lighten hair naturally, but I'm not sure how effective that is or if it might cause any irritation. A while back, I tried lemon juice, thinking it would work, and I could’ve sworn I saw a slight change at first, but honestly, it just made my hair super dry. I also heard that getting some sun can help, but with winter coming, that's not really an option. Right now, I'm thinking about trying chamomile tea too, because I read somewhere that it can help lighten hair naturally, but can that really match up to a salon treatment? I'm worried I might mess it up and end up with weird patches or something. Anyone has experience with how to lighten hair naturally? What worked for you? Like, I really need suggestions that are safe and won’t leave my hair a frizzy mess. Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Trying to lighten your hair naturally can indeed be a bit of trial and error since the results can vary depending on your hair’s texture and current color. While none of these methods can exactly replicate the precision of a salon treatment, they can definitely add some subtle highlights safely without much hassle. Let’s start with honey and cinnamon: both contain peroxide and can act as a mild bleaching agent. You’d mix a few tablespoons of honey with olive oil, and a teaspoon of cinnamon, leave it on your hair for a couple of hours under a shower cap. It should be relatively safe and non-irritating as long as you’re not allergic to these ingredients. Be sure to do a patch test first to rule out any skin sensitivity.
Chamomile tea is another gentler option—when brewed strong and cooled, it can be used as a rinse. Pour it through your hair after shampooing and let it air dry in the sun—yes, I know that part’s currently tricky with winter. Still, using a hair dryer on a low setting can mimic the sun’s heat. This method works gradually over time, so repeated applications may be necessary. Since you mentioned dryness from lemon juice, be cautious with it—mixing it with conditioner or oil can mitigate some of those effects if you decide to try it again. Always remember to moisturize afterward with a good conditioner or a deep-conditioning mask to avoid frizz and dryness.
Sitting outside for brief periods can still help, weather permitting, as even indirect sunlight can enhance the effects of these natural lighteners, albeit slowly. Just take care to always keep your hair nourished with hydrating products, given your concern about dryness and sensitivity. While it’s unlikely to result in the dramatic changes we sometimes hope for, these methods are relatively safe. If in doubt, consult with a trichologist or hairstylist to get personalized advice based on your hair type and condition!
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