Q: I am trying to find out the formula for a service called breaking the base. I know it is used to lighten roots on high-lighted
hair.
A: Breaking the base is a technique derived to lighten the new growth of hair that has been highlighted to diminish the appearance of
the new growth areas or as a means of “freshening up” the color of the hair. The method is also referred to as a “soap cap” in some
salons (this is an older term your mom may have used when she went to the salon).
The typical mix for a “Soap Cap” or “Break-the-Base” formula is 3 ounces of liquid shampoo, 2 ounces
of 20-volume peroxide developer and 1 ounce of on-the-scalp oil bleach. Mix these ingredients well and apply it to the new growth.
Process the formula for three to eight minutes, depending on the results you desire.
While this mix is great for a quick freshening of highlighted hair with new growth, you can also use
this formula all over the hair to give a boost to the hair’s shine and color. After processing, apply water and work the mix into a lather
then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water followed by a cool water rinse.
