No filter. The method we used was to take me from a black Demi-Permanent to a very translucent sparkly white blond. Although it was painful at times on the scalp, I like to avoid using any barriers with bleach so it's as reflective and translucent as possible while still healthy. Advil and pound a few Pinot, but rinse immediately if the scalp is burning too much not worth it to get blisters. You can always reapply bleach... better to be patient! My hair still feels very soft!