Can You Dye Red Hair Pink Without Bleach? The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

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If you’ve got red hair and you want to move to pink, do you need to bleach it? Are you actually lifting the color, or is red light enough?

Can you dye red hair pink without bleach?

Yes, often you can skip the bleach! Most people think they have to use bleach to complete this transition, which is not the case. 

This review proves that it is possible to dye your red hair pink without bleaching as it gives insight into: 

  • The ideal hair preparation 
  • How to dye without using bleach 
  • How to keep the pink shade bright 

Depending on your shade of red, you may be able to skip the bleach!

Read on for more.


Contents

Can You Dye Red Hair Pink Without Bleach?

Depending on the shade of red you’ve got, and the shade of pink you’re going for, you may be able to skip the bleaching process and avoid some bleach damage. You also be able to get to pink sooner if you skip the bleach.

If you’ve got dark red hair, and you’re aiming for a light pink shade, well that won’t work. But if your red hair is already fairly light, and you’re aiming for a medium to dark pink, you may be in luck!

If you’ve got dark red hair, and you’re aiming for a light pink shade, well that won’t work. But if your red hair is already fairly light, and you’re aiming for a medium to dark pink, you may be in luck!


How To Prepare Hair For Dyeing

Following this basic hair preparation routine is essential to avoid burns or inconveniences. First, brush your hair back to reveal the hairline and apply Vaseline jelly on the scalp, ears, and neck region. 

This measure prevents the dye from getting into contact with the skin.

You should also ensure you have gloves on to protect your hands.

Afterward, use an old towel to cover the shoulder area to avoid ruining your outfit. 

Next is to section the hair into quadrants and clip them. Now you’re ready to dye your red hair pink! 


How To Dye Red Hair Pink Without Using Bleach 

Determining the type of dye and brand you wish to use is essential. If you’re not looking for a long-term color, you may want to stick with a semi-permanent dye.

After that, gather the following materials to help you through this exciting process: application brush, non-metal bowl, comb, hair clips, volume developer, latex gloves, and petroleum jelly.

Some of these products are the ones discussed in the preparation stage. 

It’s time to start dying! 

Step 1

Put on your gloves and ensure you follow all the precaution measures provided. You may also decide to lay some old newspapers or magazines on the floor to prevent any damage or discoloration. After that, pour the dye into the bowl and mix it according to the directions provided. 

Step 2

Use the application brush to apply the pink dye to the four sections carefully. It is best to apply it generously on the ends as you progress to the roots.

Ensure that you effectively cover all hair sections before letting the die sit for about 30 minutes. 

Step 3

Rinse the dye off using warm water; repeat the process until the cleaning water becomes clear. It takes about 5 to 10 minutes to eliminate all dye substances in your hair. 

Step 4

Feel free to use a hair conditioner to clean your bright pink hair. It is a good idea to avoid using shampoo a few days after applying the dye if you want to preserve this vibrant color.

The conditioner treatment is essential since it restores hair moisture. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off. 

Step 5

The final step is to let the hair air dry and then style it in whichever manner. Don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for successfully dyeing your red hair pink without using bleach!


Keeping The Pink Shade Bright 

It is common to find women complaining that their pink dye fades quickly or their hair becomes weak. All these problems can be solved easily by following simple care tips that will leave your hair looking vibrant for a long time.

They include:

1. Shampoo Your Hair 

The first step towards maintaining vibrantly dyed hair is proper shampooing. Don’t use unsuitable products and expect the dye to remain intact. Proper shampooing includes using the ideal product specifically designed for colored hair , one that doesn’t contain sulfates and parabens. 

Biolage Color Last Shampoo | Helps Maintain Vibrant Color | For Color-Treated Hair | Paraben & Silicone-Free | Vegan | Cruelty Free | 33.8 Fl. Oz
  • Color Safe Shampoo: Low pH shampoo for...
  • Benefits: Inspired by nature's orchid,...
  • Additional Benefits: A professional...
  • Suggested Use: Apply to wet hair and...
  • Color Last Collection: Color Last system...

If you have a dry scalp, it is best to reduce your shampooing frequency to about two times a week. For those with oily scalps, feel free to clean your hair daily. 

2. Moisturize The Hair 

Hair coloring tends to dry and break the hair structure, which is why it is essential to keep it moisturized. The ideal care routine features a sulfate-free shampoo, hair mask, sprays, oils, creams, hair balms, and conditioners.

These products saturate the hair and smoothen the flakes at the top, thus sealing the inside pigment. 

3. Avoid Too Much UV Exposure 

Try as much as possible to protect your dyed from long sunshine exposure that usually makes it fade. There are various ways to achieve this, such as wearing hats or using protective sprays. 


Conclusion

One way to change your look and style is to dye your red hair pink. If you’re not trying to go too light, and your red is already fairly light, you can skip the bleach.

Written by Kayla Young

Kayla is the founder of LuxeLuminous. She has worked professionally in the tanning industry for years. She has been interested in esthetics since childhood, and has tried every hair, skin, and makeup product ever produced (more or less).