My colorist recommended that I don't wash my hair before each bleach session because the natural oils and hair product will protect my scalp. We do use Olaplex when bleaching, but I found consistent coconut oil use to be a real game changer for me. I use a lot of it to keep my hair and scalp nourished. I already loved the health benefits of coconut oil, but I quickly learned that it also works wonders on hair!
I'll apply organic, unrefined coconut oil all over and leave it in overnight on the nights before washing my hair. I also massage some in before bleaching. Over time, this has really helped with split ends, and keep my hair smooth from root to tip.
I also learned that classic coconut oil works just fine. The hair-specific variations in the beauty aisle were almost exactly the same, just at a higher price point.
I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprise at how healthy I've been able to keep my hair, especially since the change in colour was so drastic!