Highlighting one’s hair is a very popular and simple way to add a little style to a haircut, while having a little fun at the same time. Hair highlighting refers to using special hair dye to color different strands of hair, of different sizes, on different parts of a person’s head.
Some of the hair highlighting processes is mentioned below:
- Foil Highlighting: This is the most common process. In this process, hair foil is used to separate and wrap the strands of hair so that the color does not affect other strands. A special brush is then used to actually paint the color on the strands that are slated for highlighting.
- Hair Painting: This is similar to hair foiling, but without the foil, is known as hair painting. Hair painting uses a special brush or comb to paint the highlights onto the hair. Hair painting kits are readily available in most retail establishments and at many salons.
- Hair Chunking: While this process does not refer to the method in which the color is actually put onto the hair, it does refer to the fact that actual chunks of hair are highlighted, as opposed to highlighting strands. The finished look of chunked highlights is very popular and modern looking.
- Low Lighting: This process is just the opposite of highlighting, whereby the strands or chunks of hair that are colored are actually colored darker than the natural hair color.
Advantages of Hair Highlighting over Full Coloring
There are a number of advantages to highlighting one’s hair rather than doing a full dye job. One of the greatest drawbacks to having the entire head of hair colored is the way it looks when the natural hair color begins to grow back in.
Since highlights only color a portion of the hair, it looks more natural when the highlights begin to grow out, because the natural color has been present all along. The other advantage is that when “roots” begin to show on a full color job, it is advisable to have the hair color redone. This is not necessary with highlights, at least not right away.
Choosing the right hair highlight
When choosing the right highlight color for your hair, it is imperative that the current hair color is considered first. The highlights should accent and contrast the current hair color, rather than clash with it. It is also important to contemplate skin tones as well. For example, beige shades will look good with cool skin tones and caramel shades will work best with warm skin tones.
Highlighting can also be fun and does not have to be permanent. Using non-permanent highlights is a great way to show your spirit during a holiday season. For example, green highlights look great on St. Patrick’s Day, while red and green highlights can really create a festive mood around the Christmas season.
When choosing the type of highlighting you want (chunking, foiling, etc.), you must first consider the type of look you wish to achieve. It is best, especially if you have never highlighted your hair before, to consult a professional hairstylist or colorist before moving forward.
