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Here's How to Go Kanye West Blonde

Yeezy taught me.

If you've ever thought about going blonde but have been trigger shy, let Kanye West's breakdown blonde be your guide. Ever the trendsetter, we are looking to Yeezy to help us to explore the beautiful blonde beyond. While the ladies have been doing it for years, it took Kanye's commitment to trying something new to push us over the edge. But like anything in life, being blonde is not necessarily easy, especially for Black hair. We talked to colorist expert and creative director of Original Mineral salon Janelle Chaplin and found out just what it takes to be Black and blonde. 

  1. Fragile Follicles

    (Photo: Michael Wright/WENN.com)

    Photo: Michael Wright/WENN.com

    (Photo: Michael Wright/WENN.com)

    What are some of the particular challenges when dying black (texture/color) hair blonde?

    The hair can be fragile and lift extremely quick, so you need to use the correct developer to ensure a smooth and stable lifting process.

  2. Go All In

    (Photo: WENN)

    WENN

    (Photo: WENN)

    What is your best advice for trying to go blonde? Go all the way? Or ease into it?

    I think in stages is best if you have existing color in your hair. If you have virgin hair, you can just go for it.

  3. Don't Skimp

    (Photo: Brad Barket/Getty Images for TIDAL)

    Brad Barket/Getty Images for TIDAL

    (Photo: Brad Barket/Getty Images for TIDAL)

    Are there any specific kind of dyes or brands that work best for Black hair?

    I like more professional haircare brands as they are more gentle. NEVER use color from off-the-shelf/pharmacy as they use more harsh chemicals. O&M has a keratin Ammonia-free bleach which is a little softer on the hair while the lightening process happens, which produces better results.  

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  5. Patience, grasshoppers

    (Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for Dick Clark Productions)

    Mark Davis/Getty Images for Dick Clark Productions

    (Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for Dick Clark Productions)
  6. What should your expectations be when you go in to get your hair dyed blonde?

    SLOW AND STEADY wins the race. Be patient and it will happen!

  7. After the party is the after care

    (Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Bulgari)

    Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Bulgari

    (Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Bulgari)

    What do you recommend for an after-care regiment? (Nightly, weekly and monthly)

    It is good to use a very hydrating shampoo and conditioner along with a weekly protein mask. In general, washing your hair less also helps, too. Reduce to two-three times a week.

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