Hair bleaching powder is a cosmetic product used to lighten the natural color of hair by removing its pigment. It contains an active ingredient called hydrogen peroxide, often combined with an alkaline agent like ammonia or sodium hydroxide. This chemical mixture works together to open up the hair cuticle, allowing the peroxide to penetrate and break down the melanin (natural pigments) in the hair shaft.
When you apply the bleach mixture to your hair, it essentially lifts the color so that you can achieve a lighter shade. Hair bleaching powder is typically mixed with a developer (also containing hydrogen peroxide) to create a paste, which is then applied to the hair and left on for a certain amount of time before being rinsed out. The process can be quite harsh on hair, so it's crucial to follow instructions carefully and use appropriate conditioning treatments afterward to maintain the hair's health. It's often used before applying hair dye to achieve vibrant colors or simply to achieve a lighter look.