Adding highlights to your hair can feel like letting the sun kiss your strands, brightening your overall look with dimension and depth. While a salon visit is a classic choice, mastering the art of at-home highlighting is entirely possible. With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can achieve beautiful, sun-kissed results from the comfort of your bathroom.
Choosing Your Highlighting Method
Your first decision is selecting your application technique. For a natural, blended effect, a highlighting cap with a hook is a great beginner-friendly option. You simply pull thin sections of hair through the tiny holes. If you’re aiming for a more custom, salon-like look, a DIY balayage or foil kit allows for more precision. Kit options often include brushes and applicators designed for painting on color where you want it most.
Preparing for a Successful Application
Preparation is the key to avoiding mishaps. Always perform a strand test 48 hours before to check for allergic reactions and to see how your hair color will develop. Gather all your tools: your chosen kit, clips to section your hair, gloves, an old towel, and a timer. Do not wash your hair the day of your appointment; natural oils will help protect your scalp.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Application
Start by carefully reading the instructions that come with your kit. Section your dry hair into four quadrants, clipping each one out of the way. Work through one small, thin section at a time. Whether you’re using a cap, foils, or painting on color, remember that less is more. Thin sections create more natural-looking highlights than thick, chunky pieces. Apply the lightener according to the kit’s directions, keeping a close eye on the timer to prevent over-processing.
Caring for Your New Highlights
Once you’ve rinsed and conditioned your hair, your work isn’t over. Highlights require a little extra love to stay vibrant and healthy. Switch to a color-safe shampoo and a deep conditioning treatment once a week. Using a purple shampoo can help neutralize any brassy, yellow tones that may develop, keeping your blonde bright and fresh.
Highlighting your hair at home is a rewarding project that can save you time and money. By taking it slow, following directions, and trusting the process, you can achieve a beautiful, brightened look that boosts your confidence.