Light brown highlights in dark brown hair are striking with the illusion they create. Nonetheless, this shadowy beauty really emphasizes the dimension and depth of your hair. It’s an advantage when added, even at a rookie stage, as it delivers a soft, stunning effect and compliments the natural hues of your brunette, giving it the illumination from the sun. Whether gentle touches or intense lines, this guide will tell you how to do them.
Understanding the Basics
They’re essential to dive into all the great whys of hair coloring first. Hair highlights lift the natural color of hair, making it lighter. This often requires some sort of bleach or very high-lift color, usually depending on the base tone and how light you want the highlights.
Pre-Coloring Preparation
- Evaluate Your Hair Health: Damaged or brittle hair may not handle bleaching well. Use deep-conditioning treatments in the weeks leading up to coloring.
- Gather Supplies: You’ll need a highlighting kit, gloves, foils, a comb, and a toner to neutralize unwanted brassy tones.
- Test Strand: Always perform a strand test to ensure the color turns out as expected.
Choosing the Right Shade
Opt for a shade of light brown that complements your skin tone and natural hair color. Warm tones like caramel or honey work well for warmer skin tones, while ash or beige light brown highlights suit cooler undertones.
DIY vs. Professional Coloring
- DIY: Suitable for small, subtle highlights and those comfortable working with hair dye.
- Professional Coloring: Best for intricate techniques like balayage or if you’re unsure of the process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Highlights
1. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure even application. Use clips to secure each section.
2. Prepare the Lightener
Mix the bleach or high-lift color according to the instructions. Always wear gloves during the application.
3. Apply the Lightener
Using a brush, apply the lightener to the strands you want highlighted. Use foils to separate the treated hair from the rest, ensuring precision.
4. Monitor the Process
Keep a close eye on the hair as it lightens. Once the desired shade is achieved, rinse the lightener thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Tone the Highlights
Apply a toner to achieve the perfect light brown shade and eliminate brassy tones.
6. Condition
Finish with a deep conditioner to restore moisture and shine.
Maintaining Your Highlights
- Use Color-Safe Products: Shampoo and conditioners designed for color-treated hair help preserve the vibrancy.
- Minimize Heat Styling: Excessive heat can cause color to fade.
- Touch-Ups: Reapply highlights as needed every 6–8 weeks.
Advantages of Light Brown Highlights
- Adds dimension and depth to dark brown hair.
- Brightens your overall look without drastic changes.
- Works well with various skin tones and hairstyles.
Styling Tips for Highlighted Hair
- Beach Waves: Show off your highlights with soft, textured waves.
- Braids: Highlighted strands pop beautifully in braided styles.
- Sleek Ponytails: A polished ponytail accentuates the contrast of highlights.
Conclusion
Highlighting dark brown hair with light brown shades will enhance and rejuvenate your look in the simplest terms you could ever use. Whether you want to do it yourself or seek the services of professional help, the simple result will upgrade your style for any season while providing an elegant and fresh outlook.
FAQs on Light Brown Highlights
1. How long do highlights last?
Highlights typically last 6–8 weeks, depending on hair growth and maintenance.
2. Can I highlight my hair without bleach?
High-lift colors may work for some, but bleach is often necessary for noticeable light brown highlights.
