I, like many other others, have had a blonde ambition ever since a young me was introduced to Barbie’s golden mane and Cameron Diaz’s beach blonde hair in 'Charlie’s Angels'. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to try having blonde hair. So I did. Despite people telling me how damaging it can be and how high maintenance it is to have golden locks, nothing and no one could’ve convinced me to not try it.

So I did. And they were right.

But so was I!

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Okay, we were both right. It was damaging and high maintenance. But I was also right. Going blonde made me very, very happy. I never felt more myself than expressing myself through my bold hair looks. And throughout the years, I’ve done lots of colors but blonde has always been special to me. But of course, the wear and tear was evident. Despite the lore my hair has gained in the salon I’ve been going to for years for still looking alive and healthy despite rounds and rounds of bleaching over the years, we had to take a break for a while because it was finally, literally, in its breaking point.

But after seeing Sarah Jessica Parker rock her original Sex and the City hair in 'And Just Like That…', CL’s badass bleached hair, and Sabrina Carpenter’s curtain bangs-adorned blonde hair (that I see everyday because she is literally my phone lock screen), I can safely say that the desire to suffer through another bleach session is back and stronger than ever. And if you’re wondering, yes, I’m well aware that I am heavily influenced by movies and pop culture. I am, unfortunately, just built like that.

Before

Now, I’ve had my hair bleached more than I’ve stepped in the gym in my lifetime but it’s been a while since I’ve done it up to my roots which is a whole ‘nother level. But like I said above, I’ve been going to the same salon/hairdresser since 2018 and they definitely know what they’re doing. They’re the main reason all of my hair hasn’t fallen off of my head yet. I’ve never been loyal to a hairstylist or even a salon before but when you find someone who does your hair good, are you really going to try to find another salon? Of course not! Because there are only a few things in this world stronger than the bond between a girl and her trusted hairstylist. And I know I should be gatekeeping these kind of things but the joy and confidence I always feel after I walk out of the salon is something everyone should feel! So we went to Marqed Salon to seek the professional hair wisdom of Mark Anthony Rosales, a hair expert of well over a decade and a hairstylist to stars like Gabbi Garcia, Angeline Cruz, Michelle Dee to name a few to learn more about my personal hair color.

Roots

As you may already know, asian hair is much harder to bleach because it tends to have more pigmentation which makes it more challenging to lighten so going blonde is an actual commitment and I’m not gonna lie, it hurts. It is tolerable but you will feel some pain. And if there’s one advice I can give you right now, it’s go to a professional. I know you think you can do it at home with a DIY bleach set and a Brad Mondo YouTube video guiding you but trust me, the emotional and financial stress you’ll probably go through when things go south is just not worth it and you’ll probably spend more trying to fix your hair.

A lot of things can go wrong when going through this process so these are some tips that can help you achieve your best blonde ever:

Before going to the Salon

With changing up your look in a major way comes great preparation. You need to prepare yourself mentally for the metamorphosis you’re about to go through so to help you envision the new you, it can help to research different shades of blonde that you like. Mark even encourages having a hair peg so that the stylists can have an idea of the look you’re going for. You can narrow it down to 3 inspos then they can tell you which one will look best on you. So it goes without saying, allot a few minutes for your consultation with the hairstylist. In addition, you can also deep condition your hair at home to prepare for the battle it will go through!

What kind of blonde looks best for Filipinas?

When asked about the colors that would look good on Filipinas, Mark had this to say, “Generally, warm or golden blondes like honey or caramel can be flattering choices but it can still vary depending on your skin tone. But of course, ultimately, it's important to choose a shade that makes you feel the most confident and reflects your personal style. Remember, it's your hair, your rules!”

Hair treatment

The Damage Has Not Been Done

To keep your hair in tip-top shape, there are a few things that you have to change when it comes to your every day hair routine. It’s just the prize we have to pay for the golden locks we just suffered for.

When washing your hair, remember to not use harsh shampoos or products containing sulfates as your mane is particularly vulnerable when in a bleached state. The harsh chemicals can strip too much of your hair’s moisture and damage it in the long run. In addition, and this is important, adding a purple shampoo in your routine is a must to counteract brassiness. The special shampoo neutralises the color of your hair to avoid looking yellow or dull (as it is very prone to this!) so that your blonde keeps its shine for a longer time.

When using purple shampoo, remember to wash your hair with regular shampoo first to clean your scalp then follow with the purple one. The colored shampoo won’t work on unclean hair. Then finish with a hydrating conditioner.

When it comes to styling with any kind of heat involved, straightening, curling, or blow drying your hair excessively can fry your hair. Remember to put a heat styling protectant beforehand and try not to use your hair tool in its highest heat settings.

After

After one month

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Expect a Retouch

As with any kind of hair, regular trims to prevent split ends is also a must. But you’ll also be the needing the occasional visit to your hairstylist for toning treatments and root retouching.It’s also possible that you won’t get the exact color you want on your first visit, especially when you’re starting point was a very deep color. For some people, it can take more than one visit to achieve fully bleached hair and that’s okay. Taking it nice and slow is better than going all out in one appointment. If your stylist says your hair can’t take it, take the advice!

Follow Marqed Salon on Instagram. Marqed Salon is located at The Sapphire Residences Condominium 31st Street corner 2nd Avenue BGC