7 Most Common Questions About Hair Highlights

If you are thinking about changing your look without going overboard, highlights of hair are easily the best choice. Highlights consist of strands of lighter colored hair woven throughout your natural hair for dimension and movement. They effectively create the “sun-kissed” look that many people desire.

This article discusses the basics of hair highlights and additional details so you can communicate more effectively about your needs at your next salon appointment. Let’s get right into it!

What are The Different Types of Highlighting Hair Techniques?

Hair highlighting has become popular recently, and stylists keep developing new techniques to achieve various effects. Here are some of the most popular ones here in Australia:’

Traditional Foil Highlights

This classy hair highlighting method involves separating hair strands and wrapping them in foil with a lightener. This technique requires precision in application and is most preferred when creating some contrast against darker shades of hair color.

Balayage

Balayage is a French word that means “to sweep”. Balayage is a highlighting method that involves gradually hand-painting hair for a more natural effect. Balayage differs from traditional highlighting by creating a softer grow-out, requiring less maintenance.

Face Framing Highlights

Face framing highlights concentrate around the face to brighten a person’s complexion and draw more attention to their facial features. They are the most flattering highlights for all skin tones and hair colors, whether dark brown or strawberry blonde.

Babylights

Babylights are super-fine highlights created to mimic the natural, soft lighting effect the sun has on children’s hair. It adds depth without noticeable streaks.

Ombré

Ombre is a unique and stylish hair highlighting style with darker roots that gradually transition to lighter ends to create a two-toned effect.

Sombré

Sombré is a softer version of Ombré. This technique creates a more subtly blended transition between darker shades at the roots and lighter ends.

There are many more unique highlights and lowlights in the beauty world, with new ones being invented. It all comes down to the creativity of your hairstylist and your needs.

How Long Do Hair Highlights Last?

Like most people, you are probably curious about the longevity of highlights. You should expect your hair highlights to typically last about 6- 8 weeks before they require a touch-up appointment. However, several factors influence this timeframe:

• Your natural hair growth rate (most people’s hair grows about half an inch per month).
• The contrast between your base color and highlights.
• How well you maintain your color with proper haircare products.
• The highlighting technique used (balayage and ombré typically require less frequent touch-ups than traditional foil highlights).

If you have blond hair and receive golden blonde highlights, the grow-out may be less noticeable than that of some with brown hair, who get significant lightening. It’s also important to note that hair color fades over time, especially with frequent washing and sun exposure.

How Do I Care for Your Highlighted Hair?

Highlighted hair needs proper care to preserve its vibrancy and overall health. Here are some expert tips from us on this:

• Use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.
• Apply heat protectant before styling with hot tools.
• Consider weekly deep conditioning treatments to combat potential dryness.
• Limit washing to 2-3 times per week if possible.
• Protect your hair from chlorine and saltwater when swimming.
• Wear a hat or use UV-protective products when spending time in the sun.

These practices will help your color last longer between salon visits and keep your highlighted strands from becoming damaged or brassy. You can learn more about multidimensional hair color techniques and maintenance from our blog.

What’s the Difference Between Highlights and All-Over Color?

There is a big difference between highlights and all-over color that you need to know to choose between the two:

Highlights involve lightening selected strands throughout your hair, leaving your base color intact. This creates dimension, texture, and often a more natural appearance. The grow-out process is typically more forgiving since your natural root color blends with the highlighted sections.

All-over color, on the other hand, changes your entire head of hair to a new shade. While this creates a more uniform look, it often requires more maintenance as your roots grow, creating a visible line of demarcation.

Many stylists recommend a combination approach—maintaining your base color or slightly adjusting it while adding highlights for dimension and visual interest. Learn about the differences between foils and highlights and which might be best for you in our blog.

Can I Dye Hair Highlights at Home?

While professional results usually come from salon visits, at-home highlighting kits have improved significantly. However, consider these points before attempting DIY highlights:

• At-home kits work best for subtle effects rather than dramatic changes.
• Achieving even application, especially on the back of your head, can be challenging.
• Correcting mistakes might ultimately require professional intervention, potentially costing more than a salon visit would have.
• Professionals have access to higher-quality products and can create custom color formulations.

If you decide to highlight at home, follow instructions meticulously. Start with just a few face-framing pieces to test your technique.

What Should I Tell My Stylist When Getting Highlights?

Clear communication with your stylist is essential for achieving your desired look. Consider discussing:

• Bring inspiration photos showing your desired level of contrast and placement.
• Mention any previous color treatments your hair has received.
• Discuss your maintenance comfort level (how often you’re willing to return for touch-ups).
• Share your typical styling routine so highlights can be placed to enhance your usual look.
• Be specific about what you like (e.g., “I love how these highlights brighten around the face”).

In Conclusion

Highlighted hair can look fresh and dimensional for months with proper consultation, application, and maintenance. Talk to a professional hairstylist today about the highlights to look your best!