Even if you're going to a salon, preparing your hair before bleaching is an important step. Having your hair in its best condition helps the bleach perform better and prevents hair damage. The harsh chemicals used in bleaching dry and heat up your hair so you've got to make sure that your hair and scalp is moisturized. Reduce your use of hot tools for at least a month before bleaching to help keep your hair in tip-top condition.

Another important thing to remember? Don't wash your hair at least 24 hours before bleaching: You see, it's actually better if your hair is oily. Along those lines, it's also often recommended to treat your hair with coconut oil before bleaching. It will help the process and create a protective barrier for your hair and scalp against the damage.

Try: Mother Nature's Essentials Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil For Skin, $16.95

In addition to the bleach and developer, you also need to gather the correct tools: You'll need a mixing bowl, dye brush, section clips, and gloves.

One important note: You must NOT use any metallic tools, since they will be burned by the bleach mixture. Instead, opt for all plastic home hair bleaching kit to have a smoother experience. Also, be sure to wear an over-sized shirt that you don't care for (because no one likes bleach stains).

Try: Diane 7-Piece Hair Coloring Kit, $6.37

Most people don't have allergies to bleach alone (though some are certainly more sensitive to it than others), but if you're using a bleach with color in it, patch testing is always important. A day before you apply it, make a small portion of the bleach mixture and do a patch test on the inside of your elbow or at the back of your ear. Wait for it to dry up and watch out for allergic reactions. As mentioned earlier, it's natural for the bleach to heat up. But if it stings too much and starts to burn, abandon the plan immediately and rinse with water.

When you do the patch test, go for a strand test as well. This way, you'll have a realistic idea of how the bleaching process will go.

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Are you a strong independent woman? Sure, you are. But you'll still need a helping hand when you bleach your hair: So call your BFF, sister, mom, boyfriend — anyone you trust to help you apply. Because even if you surround yourself with mirrors, it will be difficult for you to apply the bleach all over your hair — you'll get much better results with some extra help.

Oh and be sure to share your research and bleaching knowledge to the person who'll help you so he/she will know what to do (and what not to do).

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Rule of thumb: at-home bleaching generally should not exceed 45 minutes. If you think keeping the bleach on for an extra fifteen minutes will lead to a brighter blonde, you're in for a disappointment. After 45 minutes, the bleach will stop lifting up your hair color and will start cooking your strands. This may leave your hair super dry, brittle, or worse, cause hair fallout.

A pro-tip to keep in mind: Apply the bleach an inch away from the scalp for the first 30 minutes and apply it on the roots after. Your roots are much more virgin which makes it easier and faster to bleach — they typically only need 15 minutes or so. Don't forget to check your hair every 10 minutes throughout the process.

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