Standard methods of lightening hair such as using bleach or other chemical methods can often result in extensive damage. As well as, methods such as this require regular maintenance as dark root growth will be quickly visible. The more often chemicals are used on the hair the more damage will result. Using chemical lightening treatments is also extremely dangerous for young people e.g. adolescents. The hair of a young person is often much softer and finer than that of an older person and therefore is more susceptible to damage. However, despite the dangers, changing hair colour and brightening up the tone is still very popular, especially in the summer months. There is actually a little known technique to achieve that summer glow without causing damage to your locks, and this technique is centred on lemon juice.

How to: Lighten hair naturally with lemon juice

It may seem strange but it can actually be done, and the benefits of using this method are extensive. The natural acids within the lemon juice react to the sunlight and effectively naturally bleach your hair in a safe way. Not only will you begin to see results gradually, but the technique will react to the natural highlights and lowlights in your hair, giving you an entirely natural sun kissed look. As well as, this technique will get rid of that horrible dark root growth, as new growth will naturally blend into the highlights. Also the lemon juice itself will provide your hair with some protection from the sun, allowing it to lighten whilst reducing the risk of dryness and breakage.

The first step to learning how to lighten hair with lemon juice is to determine your natural hair condition. The method will vary depending on your natural hair type.

Method of lightening for normal/oily hair

This method will teach you how to lighten hair with lemon juice if your hair type is normal or oily.

Step 1: Gather your tools

The first things you will need in order to use this method are; a squeezy spray bottle, 1 cup of lemon juice squeezed from at least 4 fresh lemons, and also ¼ cup of warm water.

Step 2: Combine mixture

Combine the water and the lemon juice together in a measuring cup, stirring vigorously until you begin to see a slight foam form on top of the mixture. After this transfer your mixture in your spray bottle.

Step 3: Apply mixture

This technique will work best if your hair is unwashed. Spray the mixture onto your hair until it becomes damp. Pay particular attention to the areas that you wish to lighten the most. E.g. if you are aiming for an ombre effect, spray most of the mixture from the mid-point of your hair down to the ends.

Step 4: Develop mixture

In order to get the best results from this method, you will need to sit in the sun with the mixture on your hair for at least 1 hour. Although you may need to add some extra time depending on the weather. Also, be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen whilst you complete this step of the process.

Step 5: Rinse

Rinse your hair thoroughly until you are sure that all of the mixture has been removed, however, don’t use shampoo as this may counteract the effects. Do use conditioner, and apply it thoroughly from root to tip. The sun will have caused your hair to become dryer so you need to rejuvenate it after this treatment.

Step 6: Repeat

If your hair is particularly dark then you may not notice results straight away. Repeat the process once weekly until you see the results that you desire. Do not use the method more the once a week as this may cause damage to your hair. You can expect to see clear results after the 4th treatment.

Method of lightening for dry hair

This method will give you clear instructions for how to lighten hair with lemon juice if you have particularly thick or dry hair.

Step 1: Gather your tools

In order to carry out this method effectively you will need 1 cup of lemon juice squeezed from no less than 4 fresh lemons. You will also need ¼ cup of conditioner, a small bowl for mixing as well as a fine toothed comb.

Step 2: Combine mixture

Add the lemon juice and the conditioner to the bowl, and mix thoroughly. If the conditioner you have chosen is particularly thick you may wish to use a whisk to ensure the ingredients are properly combined.

Step 3: Apply mixture

In contrast to the method used for normal hair, you will not be using a spray to apply the mixture as you need to make sure that your hair is completely coated. The easiest way to do this is to simply scoop the mixture out of the bowl with your hand and apply directly to your hair, again focusing on the areas you wish to lighten. After you have applied the mixture, use a fine tooth comb to make sure the mixture is equally distributed across your hair. This will also help to remove any tangles, and make sure the conditioner coats your hair enough to prevent dryness.

Step 4: Develop mixture

In the same way as the method for normal hair, you will need to expose your hair to the sun for at least one hour. If you have particularly thick hair, you may wish to separate it into sections to get the best exposure. Again, be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen during this step of the process.

Step 5: Rinse

Thoroughly rinse the mixture off of your hair using warm water. For this method you may wish to use shampoo to prevent the conditioner in the mixture making your hair oily. Once your hair is completely clean, condition the hair again as you would normally do.

Step 6: Repeat

Repeat this process once a week until you see the results that you want. Beware that dry hair will be more susceptible to damage to the sun, so try not to use this method too often.

Lighten up!

When life gives you lemons and other amazing natural sources, you should squeeze them on your head and lighten up your hair.

Have you used this method previously? Are you keen to try it out? Let us know your story, ask questions about the process or share your personal tips in the comment section.