Hair highlights are a popular way to add dimension and brightness to your hair, creating a beautiful and natural-looking effect. However, getting your hair highlighted requires maintenance to keep your locks looking fresh and vibrant. In this article, we will discuss how often you should get your hair highlighted, taking into consideration factors such as hair type, color, and desired look. Whether you’re a seasoned highlight enthusiast or considering getting highlights for the first time, read on to find out how to maintain your stunning highlights.
Understanding Hair Highlighting
What are Hair Highlights?
Hair highlights involve the process of adding lighter strands of color to your hair, typically a shade or two lighter than your base color. The goal is to create contrast and depth, giving your hair a multidimensional appearance. Highlights can be applied using various techniques, such as foiling, balayage, or ombre, to achieve different effects.
Factors to Consider Before Getting Highlights
Before diving into the frequency of getting your hair highlighted, there are a few factors to consider:
1. Hair Type and Texture
Different hair types and textures react differently to highlighting treatments. Fine hair may require less frequent touch-ups, while thick and coarse hair might need more frequent maintenance.
2. Natural Hair Color
The color of your natural hair plays a significant role in determining how often you should get highlights. For those with lighter hair, the regrowth will be less noticeable, requiring fewer touch-ups. In contrast, dark-haired individuals may need more frequent visits to the salon.
3. Desired Look
The look you want to achieve with your highlights also affects the frequency of touch-ups. If you prefer a subtle and natural look, you can go longer between appointments. However, for a bolder and more noticeable effect, you might need to visit the salon more often.
How Often Should You Get Your Hair Highlighted?
The ideal frequency for getting your hair highlighted depends on the specific method used and the rate of hair growth. Here’s a general guideline for different highlighting techniques:
1. Full Foil Highlights
Full foil highlights involve applying color to every section of your hair, providing maximum coverage. If you opt for full foil highlights, you should plan to visit the salon every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain a seamless and even look.
2. Partial Foil Highlights
Partial foil highlights focus on specific sections of your hair, typically around the face and crown area. This technique requires less maintenance, and you can schedule touch-ups every 8 to 12 weeks.
3. Balayage Highlights
Balayage is a freehand technique that creates a more natural, sun-kissed effect. Since the color is strategically placed, you can wait longer between appointments, usually around 10 to 12 weeks.
4. Ombre Highlights
Ombre involves a seamless transition from dark roots to lighter ends. This low-maintenance style allows you to go 12 to 16 weeks between salon visits.
5. Babylights
Babylights are super fine highlights that mimic the natural highlights children have. Due to their subtlety, you can extend the time between appointments to approximately 10 to 14 weeks.
Tips for Maintaining Your Highlights
1. Use Color-Safe Products
Invest in color-safe shampoos and conditioners to help preserve the vibrancy of your highlights. These products are specially formulated to protect and nourish color-treated hair.
2. Protect Your Hair from Sun and Chlorine
Exposure to the sun and chlorine can cause your highlights to fade faster. Wear a hat or use UV protection sprays when spending time outdoors, and rinse your hair after swimming in chlorinated water.
3. Avoid Overstyling
Excessive heat styling can damage your hair and affect the longevity of your highlights. Embrace your natural texture and limit the use of hot tools whenever possible.
Conclusion
Hair highlights can transform your look, adding dimension and radiance to your locks. The frequency of getting your hair highlighted depends on various factors, including the technique used, your hair type, and the desired outcome. By following these guidelines and maintaining your highlights with proper care, you can enjoy stunning, sun-kissed tresses that turn heads everywhere you go.