* Lifting Natural Hair Color (Bleaching): Oxide opens the hair cuticle, allowing the developer (usually mixed with bleach powder) to penetrate the hair shaft and dissolve the natural melanin pigments that give hair its color.
* Developing Hair Dye: When mixed with permanent or demi-permanent hair dye, the oxide activates the dye molecules, causing them to swell and become trapped within the hair shaft, thus permanently coloring the hair.
* Opening the Hair Cuticle: Oxide helps to open the hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to penetrate the hair shaft and bind to it.
* Affecting the Final Color: The volume or percentage of oxide used influences the degree of lift or color change. Higher volumes lift more levels of color but can also cause more damage.
Important Considerations:
* Volume/Percentage Matters: Oxides are sold in different strengths, indicated by volume (e.g., 10 volume, 20 volume, 30 volume, 40 volume). The higher the volume, the stronger the oxidizing power and the greater the potential for damage.
* Hair Damage: Oxide can damage the hair if used incorrectly or too frequently. It can make hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
* Professional Use Recommended: It's generally best to have your hair dyed or bleached by a professional stylist, as they are trained to use oxide safely and effectively.
* Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before using hair dye or bleach containing oxide to check for allergic reactions.
* Alternatives: There are some gentler, non-oxidative hair coloring options available, such as temporary or semi-permanent dyes, but these do not lighten the hair and wash out over time.