Discover the Versatility of Hair Highlights – Everything You Need to Know to Elevate Your Look
Would you like to add some spark to your hair? Hair highlights are the answer. Highlights have long been renowned for their transformative capabilities, and there’s a color and technique that will work for everyone. They can add depth to hair, brighten up a face, and make hair appear fuller. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about hair highlights, their types, and how to choose the right one for yourself. So, get ready to elevate your look and discover the versatility of hair highlights.
Types of hair highlights
Highlighting is the process of coloring specific hair strands lighter than your base color. There are a variety of highlighting techniques and color options, and getting the right one is crucial. Here is a list of popular highlighting techniques:
Balayage Highlights
Balayage is a freehand technique where highlights are painted onto the hair, creating a more natural finish. This technique focuses more on the mid-shaft and ends of the hair, gradually becoming lighter towards the tips. It works best for long hair and can give a sun-kissed natural-looking glow.
Foiling Highlights
Foiling is a classic highlighting technique where strands of hair are separated and woven into foil, then lightened. This technique is ideal for a dramatic and uniform look as it can offer full coverage of the hair strands. Suitable for short and long hair, this technique can result in a wide range of looks from subtle to dramatic.
Babylights Highlights
Babylights are very fine highlights that mimic the natural hair color of children. This technique involves highlighting fine, delicate strands of hair around the face and crown, giving a subtle and delicate effect. This technique suits short hair best and is perfect for adding a touch of brightness and dimension to the hair.
Ombré Highlights
An Ombré is a technique where the hair gradually fades from one color to another, typically from the root to the middle of the hair. This technique creates a blend of two colors that work harmoniously together. Though this technique suits long hair better, short hair can also carry it off if done right.
Slice Highlights
Slice is a technique where hair is sectioned off and large panels are lightened. This technique is ideal if you want a more dramatic look and is best suited for long hair. The result of this technique is a strong contrast between the highlighted sections and the natural hair color.
Low Lights
Low Lights are the opposite of highlights – the process of adding darker shades to your hair. They are perfect for those who want to add depth to their hair and can make it appear fuller. This technique is suitable for all hair types and lengths and can be done in combination with other highlighting techniques.
Tips for choosing the right type of hair highlights
1. Skin Tone
The right hair color highlights will brighten your complexion and make it look radiant. So, when choosing hair highlights, keep in mind your skin tone. Ash blonde highlights work best on cool-toned skin, while golden shades work great on warm-toned skin.
2. Natural Hair Color
Your natural hair color plays a crucial role in choosing the right type of highlights. If you have dark hair, choose warm-toned highlights such as golden or caramel, while if you have light hair, opt for cooler shades like platinum or ash blonde.
3. Hair Texture and Face Shape
Highlighting can be used to change the appearance of hair texture and face shape. For instance, if you have fine hair, balayage is ideal as it adds volume and depth to the hair. If you have a round face, choose highlights that start higher on the hair rather than at the chin.
Ideas for Refreshing Your Look with Hair Highlights
1. Subtle Balayage on Long Hair
For those with long, flowing locks, a subtle balayage can add dimension and make your hair appear fuller. Choosing natural tones like caramel, honey, or ash blonde gives a sun-kissed look perfect for summer.
2. Bold Foiling on Short Hair
Nothing adds drama like bold foiling, especially on short hair. This technique can create a striking contrast between dark roots and light tips, making the hair look edgy and chic. Try experimenting with reds, purples, or platinum highlights.
3. Babylights for face-framing highlights
Babylights are perfect for adding a brightening effect to your hair. The technique works best for short hair and can be used to lighten hair around the face to create a youthful and fresh look. Try a pastel-toned hue for a playful touch.
How to Maintain Hair Highlights?
1. Use sulfate-free shampoo
Sulfates can dull the color and damage the hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your highlights bright and healthy.
2. Moisturize your hair
Highlighting can dry out hair, so keep it moisturized with a conditioner or hair mask. Use coconut or argan oil for extra hydration.
3. Avoid chlorine
Chlorine can be harsh on highlighted hair, so avoid swimming for at least two weeks post-coloring. If you must swim, use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to protect the hair.
FAQs
1. Can hair highlights damage my hair?
Highlights usually do not damage the hair if done correctly. However, excessive bleaching or the use of professional products can cause hair breakage and loss.
2. Can I color my hair after getting highlights?
Yes, you can. But, it is recommended that you wait for a few weeks before doing so. This will give your hair some rest and allow the color to settle in.
3. How often should I get touch-ups for my highlights?
It depends on the growth rate of your hair and the type of highlights you have. Typically, touch-ups are done every six to twelve weeks.
Conclusion
Hair highlights have the power to transform your look completely. They come in a variety of options, and getting the right one is crucial. Consider your skin tone, natural hair color, and hair texture when picking the right technique. Keep your highlights healthy by moisturizing your hair and avoiding harsh chemicals. So, don’t shy away from experimenting with different techniques and colors, and elevate your look with hair highlights.
