You must have heard a lot about the Highlight dye technique. If you have never dyed your hair, highlighting hair will be the most interesting and worth trying thing in your life. Why? Highlight gives you a lot of outstanding beauty, makes you shine wherever you are, and highlights can change the person you are more confident in.
With a variety of options for highlighting techniques, you will not be bored and always be the one who has a tendency to innovate. Try some Light Ash Blonde Highlights Hair Color Ideas for Short and Long Hair, or Peekaboo Highlight Hairstyles for Your Next Color. Let’s explore the highlighting process, and can you guess how long it takes to achieve the highlight?
Key Takeaways
- Individual factors affect timing: The duration of getting highlights can vary depending on factors such as hair length, thickness, natural color, and the desired outcome.
- Consultation is important: Before getting highlights, it’s essential to have a consultation with a professional hairstylist. They will assess your hair, discuss your desired look, and provide an estimate of the time required based on your specific situation.
- Single session highlights: If you have relatively light hair and desire subtle highlights, they can often be achieved in a single salon session. This process typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, but the exact time can vary depending on the technique used and the hairstylist’s efficiency.
- Multiple sessions for dramatic changes: If you have dark hair and want significant contrast with your highlights, achieving the desired result usually requires multiple sessions. This approach allows for a gradual lightening of the hair, minimizing damage and maintaining hair health. The number of sessions required can vary, ranging from 2 to 6 or more, with each session spaced a few weeks apart.
- Technique impacts timing: Different highlighting techniques, such as foil highlights, balayage, or ombre, have varying application and processing times. Foil highlights involve sectioning the hair and wrapping it in foils, while balayage and ombre techniques involve hand-painting or blending color onto specific areas. The chosen technique can affect the overall time required for the highlighting process.
- Hair health considerations: The condition of your hair plays a role in the time it takes to get highlights. If your hair is damaged or over-processed, additional time may be needed to restore its health before applying highlights.
- Post-highlight care: Proper hair care after getting highlights is crucial. This includes using color-safe products, minimizing heat styling, and scheduling regular touch-up appointments to maintain the desired look.
- Communication with your stylist: Effective communication with your hairstylist is essential throughout the process. Clearly expressing your expectations, discussing your desired timeline, and remaining open to their professional advice can help ensure a satisfying outcome.
How Long Does It Take To Get Highlight?
Creating highlights in your hair can offer several advantages, it can add dimension and depth to your hair, making it look more multi-dimensional and vibrant. They create contrast and variation, enhancing your natural hair color and adding visual interest. Well-placed highlights can brighten and frame your face, drawing attention to your features. They can create a flattering and youthful effect, adding a glow to your complexion. The time it takes to get highlights can vary depending on several factors, including the technique used, the amount of hair being highlighted, and the skill level of the stylist.
If you’re getting partial highlights, which typically focus on specific sections of the hair, the process can take approximately 1 to 2 hours. This timeframe includes sectioning the hair, applying the color or bleach, and processing the highlights. Full highlights involve highlighting a larger portion of the hair, including the crown, sides, and back. This process generally takes longer than partial highlights and can range from 2 to 4 hours. The duration will depend on factors such as the density and length of your hair.
Keep in mind that other factors can affect the time it takes to get highlights. These include the hair’s starting color, the desired lightness of the highlights, and any pre-lightening or color correction needed before the highlighting process.
Factors Affect The Duration Of The Highlighting Process
Highlights can work with various hair lengths, textures, and colors. Whether you have short or long hair, straight or curly, highlights can be adapted to suit your hair type. They can complement any base color and provide versatility in styling options. Unlike all-over colors, highlights create softer regrowth lines as they blend with your natural hair color. This means that when your hair grows out, the regrowth is less noticeable and requires less frequent touch-ups.
Highlights can be relatively low maintenance depending on the technique used compared to full-color treatments. They typically grow out more seamlessly, and you can go longer between touch-up appointments. This makes them a convenient option for those who prefer less frequent salon visits. Several factors can affect the duration of the highlighting process. Here are some key factors that can influence how long it takes to create highlights:
Hair Color And Starting Point
The starting color of your hair plays a crucial role in the highlighting process. If you have naturally light or blonde hair, achieving lighter highlights may require less processing time compared to darker hair. Lighter hair tends to lift more easily, requiring less bleach or color to reach the desired lightness. On the other hand, if you have dark hair and want to achieve significantly lighter highlights, it may take longer as it requires more time and effort to lift the color.
The starting condition of your hair is another important factor. If your hair has been previously color-treated or has undergone chemical processes like permanent straightening or relaxing, it may require additional steps or time to achieve the desired highlight results. Hair that has been previously colored may need color correction or pre-lightening before applying the highlights, which can extend the process.
Desired Lightness
The level of lightness you want to achieve with your highlights affects the duration of the process. If you aim for subtle, natural-looking highlights, the processing time may be shorter. However, if you desire more dramatic or contrasting highlights, it may take longer to lift the hair to the desired shade. After the highlights are lifted to the desired lightness, toning or color adjustment may be necessary to achieve the exact shade you want. This step involves applying a toner or color to neutralize any unwanted undertones or to achieve a specific color result.
Technique
The highlighting technique and placement chosen also impact the time required. Techniques like traditional foil highlights involve sectioning the hair, applying color or bleach, and wrapping each section in foil. This process can be time-consuming. Balayage, on the other hand, involves freehand painting and can be quicker in the application, especially for a more natural and blended result.
Hair Length And Density
Longer hair generally requires more time for highlighting compared to shorter hair. This is because there is a larger surface area to cover with color or bleach. If you have long hair, the stylist will need to section and apply the color to each individual section, which can take more time. Additionally, rinsing out the color thoroughly from long hair can also add to the overall process duration.
Hair density refers to the thickness or amount of hair you have on your head. If you have thick or dense hair, the highlighting process may take longer compared to someone with fine or thin hair. This is because there is more hair to section and work through, and the color or bleach may need more time to process and penetrate through the strands.
Processing Time
The processing time is a significant factor that can affect the overall duration of the highlighting process. The processing time refers to the length of time the color or bleach needs to develop on the hair to achieve the desired lightness or color result. The level of lightness you want to achieve with your highlights determines the processing time. The strength or volume of the developer used can affect the processing time.
Developers come in different volumes, such as 10, 20, 30, or 40 volume, which refers to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Higher volume developers generally have a quicker processing time but can also be more damaging to the hair. The appropriate developer strength will be chosen based on factors like hair color, condition, and desired lightness.
Hair Health And Condition
The condition and health of your hair can also influence the processing time. If your hair is in good condition, it may process more efficiently, and the desired lightness can be achieved within a shorter timeframe. However, if your hair is damaged, porous, or previously color-treated, it may take longer for the color or bleach to penetrate and lift the hair evenly.
Damaged hair, such as hair with split ends, breakage, or excessive dryness, may require extra care during the highlighting process. The stylist may need to take additional precautions, such as using lower-strength developers, adjusting processing times, or incorporating treatments to minimize further damage. While this may extend the overall process duration, it helps maintain the hair’s health and integrity.
Experience Of The Stylist
Experienced stylists have honed their skills and techniques through years of practice. They are often more efficient in sectioning the hair, applying color or bleach, and managing the overall process. Their familiarity with the highlighting techniques allows them to work more swiftly, potentially reducing the overall time needed for the process.
A skilled stylist who specializes in highlighting techniques will be well-versed in various application methods. They can apply the color or bleach accurately and precisely, ensuring even distribution and desired results. Their proficiency allows for a smoother process, potentially shortening the overall duration.
Salon Environment And Resources
A comfortable and relaxed salon atmosphere can positively impact the highlighting process. When clients feel at ease, they may be more open to communication and provide the necessary information for the stylist to create their desired look. A pleasant ambiance can enhance the overall experience and contribute to efficient and focused work.
A well-equipped salon with modern and efficient tools can contribute to a faster highlighting process. High-quality brushes, applicators, foils, and other necessary equipment can enhance the stylist’s ability to work swiftly and precisely. Having access to appropriate tools minimizes any potential delays caused by faulty or inadequate equipment.
General Steps To Get Highlights At Home Guide
Getting highlights done at a salon can be expensive, especially if you need regular touch-ups. By doing it at home, you can save money on salon fees and potentially achieve similar results at a lower cost. Doing highlights at home provides the convenience of working on your own schedule. You can choose a time that suits you best and complete the process at your own pace without the need for salon appointments.
Despite these benefits, it’s important to note that there are potential risks associated with at-home hair highlighting, such as incorrect color application, uneven results, and damage to the hair. It’s advisable to thoroughly research the process, follow instructions carefully, and consider consulting professional guidance or seeking assistance from a hairstylist if you’re uncertain or inexperienced.
While it’s important to note that highlighting your hair at home can be challenging and may yield unpredictable results, here are general steps you can follow if you decide to proceed:
Prepare the Mixture
Select a highlighting product that suits your hair type, desired outcome, and the specific kit you have purchased. The kit should include a powder bleach or lightener and a developer. Follow the instructions provided in the kit for the recommended mixing ratios. You’ll need a mixing bowl or container and an applicator brush. Start by pouring the recommended amount of powder bleach or lightener into the mixing bowl. Add the appropriate amount of developer to the mixing bowl.
Use the applicator brush or a separate mixing tool to combine the powder bleach or lightener with the developer. Stir the mixture thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and consistent texture. Make sure there are no lumps or dry patches.
Section Your Hair
You’ll need hair clips or elastics to section your hair, as well as a comb or brush to help create clean partings. Begin the sectioning process with clean, dry hair that is free from any styling products or oils. Using the comb or your fingers, create a center part that runs from your forehead to the nape of your neck.
Working with one side at a time, take one section of hair from the front near your hairline. Use the comb to create a clean, horizontal parting about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, depending on the desired thickness of your highlights. Clip or tie the remaining hair on that side away from the section you’re working on.
Apply the Highlights
Applying highlights at home can be challenging, as it requires precision and attention to detail. Begin by selecting a small section of hair where you want to apply the highlights. Using the applicator brush or a highlighting brush, carefully apply the highlighting mixture to the selected section of hair. Start from the mid-lengths or ends and work your way upward. Avoid applying the mixture directly to the scalp to achieve a more natural look. Once you have applied the mixture to a section, use the brush or your fingers to feather and blend the product upward toward the roots.
Processing Time
The specific processing time will be provided in the instructions that come with your highlighting kit. The natural color of your hair and the desired lightness of the highlights will impact the processing time. Conduct strand tests before applying the highlights to your entire head. This involves selecting a small section of hair and applying the highlighting product, then checking the color development at different time intervals. This helps determine the ideal processing time for your hair.
Root Melt
Begin by applying the color to your roots. Use a brush or applicator bottle to carefully apply the coloring product along the root area, focusing on blending it into the existing highlights. Make sure to saturate the roots evenly. After applying the color to the root area, gently blend it downwards towards the mid-lengths of your hair. This helps create a smooth and seamless gradient between the roots and the highlights.
Get Ready To Get Highlight At The Salon
Getting highlights done in a salon offers several benefits that can contribute to a successful and satisfying outcome. When you visit a salon for highlights, you’ll typically have a consultation with your stylist beforehand. Professional hairstylists have the experience and skill to apply highlights evenly throughout your hair. They can precisely control the color application, ensuring that the highlights are seamlessly blended and consistent from root to tip.
Salons typically use professional-grade hair color and highlighting products that are of higher quality than those available for at-home use. Salon professionals prioritize the health and integrity of your hair. They understand the importance of proper hair care and take precautions to minimize damage during the highlighting process. When getting highlights done in a salon, you can follow these general steps:
Consultation
Contact the salon to schedule a consultation appointment specifically for discussing highlights. This appointment is separate from the actual highlighting session. During the consultation, you’ll have an opportunity to express your hair goals and what you hope to achieve with the highlights. This may include showing reference images or describing the specific look you desire.
The stylist will assess your hair type, texture, and condition. They will consider factors such as your natural hair color, skin tone, and facial features to determine the best approach for your highlights. The stylist will explain the different highlighting techniques available, such as foil highlights, balayage, or baby lights. They will discuss the pros and cons of each technique and recommend the one that best suits your desired outcome and hair type.
Preparation
Prepare before doing highlight hair dye by washing your hair thoroughly the day before or on the day of your salon appointment. Ensure that your hair is clean and free from excessive styling products or oils. Avoid using heavy conditioners or treatments that can create a barrier between your hair and the color during the highlighting process. Choose comfortable and loose-fitting clothing for your salon appointment. Opt for a button-down shirt or something that is easy to remove without disturbing your freshly highlighted hair.
Sectioning
Sectioning is a crucial step when getting highlights in a salon. Proper sectioning ensures precise application and placement of the highlights. The stylist will start by dividing your hair into sections to make the highlighting process more manageable. The top section is separated from the sides and back, forming a horizontal parting from ear to ear. The stylist may use sectioning clips or foils to secure and separate the subsections, preventing the color or bleach from bleeding or overlapping onto other areas. Thicker subsections create bolder and more noticeable highlights, while thinner subsections result in more subtle and natural-looking highlights.
Application
The application step is an essential part of the highlighting process in a salon. The stylist will mix the color or bleach according to the manufacturer’s instructions and based on the desired outcome discussed during the consultation. The stylist will take precautions to protect the surrounding hair from the color or bleach. They may use foils, plastic wraps, or other barriers to separate and shield the sections of hair that are not being highlighted. They may use brushes, combs, or their hands to create the desired effect and distribute the product evenly.
Processing
After applying the color or bleach, the stylist will carefully evaluate the hair to determine the appropriate processing time. The duration will depend on various factors, including the desired level of lightness, the hair’s condition, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Depending on the color or bleach used and your hair’s needs, the stylist may use additional heat to expedite the processing time. Heat can help accelerate the lifting or color development process, but it must be used with caution to prevent damage. Throughout the processing time, the stylist will regularly check the hair’s progress. They will ensure that the color or bleach is evenly developing and monitor the lift of the highlights.
Rinse And Shampoo
The rinse and shampoo step is a crucial part of the highlighting process in a salon. The stylist will adjust the water temperature to lukewarm or cool, as hot water can strip the hair of its natural oils and potentially affect the color or tone of the highlights. The stylist will thoroughly rinse your hair to remove the color or bleach from the strands.
After rinsing, the stylist will select a color-safe shampoo specifically formulated for highlighted or color-treated hair. The stylist will use gentle, circular motions to massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair, being careful not to rough up or tangle the hair. They will continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating that the shampoo is completely removed.
Conditioning And Toning (If Necessary)
After rinsing out the shampoo, the stylist will apply a conditioning treatment or mask to your hair. They will focus on the mid-lengths to ends, as these areas tend to be drier and more prone to damage. The conditioning treatment helps restore moisture, nourishment, and manageability to your hair after the highlighting process. The stylist will use their fingers or a wide-toothed comb to evenly distribute the conditioning treatment throughout your hair.
Toning helps adjust the color of the highlights, neutralize any unwanted brassy or yellow tones, and enhance the overall look. The stylist will select a toner shade that complements your desired outcome and applies it strategically to the highlighted areas.
Final Styling
Before using any heated styling tools, the stylist will apply a heat-protectant product to your hair. Depending on your desired look, the stylist may use various styling techniques, such as straightening, curling, or adding texture to your hair. They will use professional-grade tools and apply the appropriate styling techniques to achieve the desired outcome. To enhance the final look and provide hold, shine, or texture, the stylist may apply finishing products. This may include hair spray, shine serum, texturizing spray, or any other styling products that suit your hair type and desired style.
Aftercare Instructions
Aftercare instructions are crucial to maintaining the health and vibrancy of your newly highlighted hair. It’s recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before washing your hair after getting highlights. This allows the color to fully settle and helps prevent premature fading. Use color-safe shampoos, conditioners, and styling products specifically formulated for highlighted or color-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle and help preserve the vibrancy of your highlights.
When washing your hair, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water can strip the hair of its natural oils and may cause the color to fade more quickly. UV rays from the sun can cause color fading. Protect your hair by wearing a hat or using UV-protective hair products when spending extended periods outdoors.
How To Take Care Of Highlight Hair Healthy?
Highlighted hair can enhance your overall appearance and boost your confidence. The added dimension and beautiful color can make you feel more stylish and put-together, elevating your self-esteem. Proper hair care and maintenance are essential to preserve the health and vibrancy of your highlighted hair. Using color-safe products, protecting your hair from heat and UV rays, and scheduling regular touch-up appointments with your stylist will help ensure long-lasting, healthy, and beautiful highlighted hair. To take care of highlighted hair and keep it healthy, consider the following tips:
Use Color-Safe Products
Using color-safe products is essential for maintaining the health and vibrancy of your highlighted hair. Look for shampoos specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These shampoos are designed to be gentle and help preserve the color of your highlights. Avoid using clarifying shampoos or products that contain sulfates, as they can strip away the color. Consider using a color-safe leave-in conditioner to provide ongoing protection and moisture to your hair.
This can help minimize frizz, detangle your hair, and provide additional nourishment between washes. Using UV-protective hair products, such as sprays or serums, can help shield your highlights from harmful sun rays.
Limit Washing
Limiting washing can be beneficial for maintaining the health and vibrancy of your highlighted hair. Instead of washing your hair daily, try to extend the time between washes. Washing too frequently can strip away the natural oils that keep your hair moisturized and healthy. Aim to wash your hair every other day or even every two to three days, depending on your hair type and personal preference.
When washing your hair, concentrate the shampoo on your scalp and roots, where oil tends to accumulate the most. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp using your fingertips, avoiding excessive scrubbing or rubbing that can cause tangling or damage to your highlights.
Use Cool Water
Cool water helps to close the hair cuticles after washing, which can result in smoother and shinier hair. When the cuticles are sealed, they lay flat, reducing frizz and enhancing the overall appearance of your highlights. Cool water rinses help minimize color fading by preventing the pigment molecules in the hair dye from escaping. Hot water can cause the cuticles to expand, allowing the color molecules to be washed out more easily. Cool water keeps the cuticles tight, trapping the color within the hair shaft.
Hydrate And Condition
Look for shampoos and conditioners that are specifically formulated for dry or damaged hair. These products often contain hydrating ingredients like oils, butters, or humectants to nourish and moisturize your hair. Incorporate hydrating hair oils into your hair care routine. Apply a few drops of hair oil to the ends of your hair to provide extra moisture and shine. Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing hydration and help protect your hair from external factors throughout the day. Apply a small amount to damp hair, focusing on the ends, and comb through to distribute the product evenly.
Protect From Heat
Protecting your highlighted hair from heat is crucial for maintaining its health and preventing damage. Before using any heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray, serum, or cream to your hair. These products create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of damage. When using heat styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, or blow dryers, adjust the heat settings to a lower temperature. High heat can strip away moisture and cause damage to your hair. Start with the lowest effective heat setting and gradually increase only if necessary.
Shield From The Sun
Shielding your highlighted hair from the sun is essential for maintaining its health and preventing color fading. Cover your hair with a wide-brimmed hat or a scarf when spending prolonged periods in the sun. This provides physical protection and helps shield your hair from direct sun exposure. Whenever possible, try to limit your hair’s exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak sun hours. Seek shade or use umbrellas when you’re outdoors to reduce the intensity of UV exposure on your hair.
Avoid Chlorine And Saltwater
Avoiding exposure to chlorine and saltwater is important for maintaining the health and color longevity of your highlighted hair. Chlorine is commonly found in swimming pools and can be harsh on your hair, causing dryness, damage, and color fading. Saltwater from the ocean can also have a drying effect on your hair, leading to moisture loss and potentially fading your hair color. Prior to swimming, apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a protective barrier between your hair and the chlorine. These products can help minimize chlorine absorption and prevent dryness.
Schedule Regular Trims
Regular trims help prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. Split ends can lead to breakage and make your hair look frizzy and dull. By trimming off the ends, you remove the damaged portion and promote healthier hair growth. Trimming your hair regularly helps maintain the shape and style of your highlights. It ensures that your hair retains the desired length and shape, allowing your highlights to be showcased beautifully.
The frequency of trims can vary depending on your hair’s condition, growth rate, and personal preference. As a general guideline, scheduling a trim every 8 to 12 weeks is recommended. However, keep in mind that individual factors may require more frequent trims.
FAQs
How long does it typically take to get partial highlights?
The duration for partial highlights can vary depending on factors such as hair length and desired outcome, but it usually takes around 1 to 2 hours.
How long does it generally take to get full highlights?
Full highlights usually take longer than partial highlights, typically around 2 to 3 hours. This is because full highlights involve applying color to a larger portion of the hair.
Does the hair length affect the time it takes to get highlights?
Yes, hair length can impact the time needed for highlighting. Longer hair may require more time for sectioning, application, and processing, so the duration might be slightly longer compared to shorter hair.
How does the desired lightness of the highlights affect the time it takes?
The desired lightness can affect the time required for highlights. If you want to achieve a significantly lighter shade, it may involve multiple sessions or a longer processing time, which can extend the overall duration.
What if I have dark hair and want to get lighter highlights?
Lightening dark hair to achieve lighter highlights can be a more time-consuming process. It may require multiple sessions spaced over a few weeks or months to gradually lighten the hair while maintaining its health.
Does the technique used affect the time it takes for highlights?
Yes, different highlighting techniques can vary in terms of the time needed. For example, techniques like balayage or foiling may require different application and processing times, impacting the overall duration.
Can the duration of getting highlights be shorter for shorter haircuts?
Yes, shorter haircuts often require less time for highlighting compared to longer hair since there is less hair to work with, section, and process.
Does the salon’s busyness affect the time it takes for highlights?
The busyness of the salon can have an impact. If the salon is busy and has other clients, it may affect the time it takes to complete your highlights. It’s best to check with the salon or schedule an appointment in advance.
Is it possible to get highlights done more quickly?
While it’s important to give the process the time it needs for optimal results, some salons may offer express or quick highlighting services that can be completed in a shorter timeframe. However, keep in mind that the speed may vary based on the stylist’s technique and the specific salon’s offerings.
Can the duration of getting highlights vary between different stylists?
Yes, the duration can vary between different stylists. Each stylist may have their own technique, speed, and efficiency, which can impact the overall time it takes to complete the highlighting process.
