Bleached hair is a stunning statement of style and confidence, often embraced by those looking for a bright and captivating look. However, as beautiful as bleached hair can be, it may sometimes require a bit of diversity to avoid a one-dimensional appearance. Enter lowlights: a popular technique that can add depth and dimension to your hair color. But can you put lowlights in bleached hair? In this article, we delve deep into this topic, covering everything from the science behind hair coloring to practical application tips and aftercare.
Understanding Lowlights and Bleached Hair
To truly appreciate the process of adding lowlights to bleached hair, it’s essential to understand what both terms mean.
What Are Lowlights?
Lowlights involve adding darker shades to the hair to create contrast and depth. Unlike highlights, which focus on lighter shades, lowlights typically consist of hues that are a few shades darker than the base color, adding a multi-dimensional effect. Lowlights can help enhance the natural texture of your hair and provide a more gradual transition between colors.
What Is Bleached Hair?
Bleaching is a chemical process that removes the natural pigment from the hair. It lightens the strands significantly, often leading to a bright, platinum-like hue. While this can lead to stunning results, bleached hair is more porous and delicate, making it essential to treat it with specialized care.
Can You Put Lowlights in Bleached Hair? The Definitive Answer
The encouraging answer to this burning question is: yes! You can absolutely add lowlights to bleached hair. However, there are crucial considerations to keep in mind to ensure a successful and healthy coloring experience.
Factors to Consider Before Adding Lowlights
Before you dive straight into adding lowlights to your bleached hair, consider these important factors:
1. Hair Health
Bleached hair tends to be more damaged than non-bleached hair due to the chemical processes involved. Ensuring that your hair is in good condition before applying lowlights is crucial. If your hair is significantly damaged, it’s advisable to wait until your hair has recovered or to focus on nourishing treatments.
2. Color Selection
The choice of the lowlight color is vital. Aim for tones that complement your bleached hair. Ideal shades are darker than your bleached hair yet harmonious with the overall color palette. For example, if you have platinum blonde hair, consider golden or honey brown lowlights.
3. Technique
The method by which you apply lowlights can make a difference in the outcome. It’s advised to use a professional stylist if you are inexperienced. They have the skills and knowledge to apply the color accurately and achieve the desired result.
The Lowlights Application Process for Bleached Hair
If you decide to take the plunge and apply lowlights yourself, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you begin, gather all your materials:
- Coloring kit (choose a shade appropriate for your desired lowlight color)
- Gloves
- Comb
- Small bowl
- Application brush
- Foils or plastic wrap
Step 2: Choosing the Right Shade
Select a color that contrasts well with your bleached hair. A consultation with a colorist can assist you in identifying shades that will pair beautifully with your current hair color.
Step 3: Strand Test
Always perform a strand test before applying the color to your entire head. Apply the lowlight mixture to a small section of hair and observe how it reacts. This ensures it won’t turn an unexpected color.
Step 4: Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. Start from the nape of your neck and work your way up. This organization will help ensure even application.
Step 5: Application
Using your application brush, apply the lowlight color to the selected strands. You can choose to apply the lowlight evenly throughout your hair or strategically in certain areas to enhance your hairstyle.
Substitution of Foils
If you want to keep some sections separated while they process, use foils or plastic wrap to cover them. This keeps the color from transferring to other sections of your hair.
Step 6: Time It Right
Follow the instructions on the coloring kit for development time. It’s essential to monitor the process closely, especially since bleached hair may absorb color more quickly.
Step 7: Rinse and Condition
Once the time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly until the water runs clear. Apply a deep conditioner to help restore moisture to your hair and seal in the color.
Aftercare for Lowlights in Bleached Hair
Once you’ve added lowlights to your bleached hair, proper aftercare is crucial to maintain the health and vibrancy of your color.
1. Use Color-Safe Products
Invest in shampoos and conditioners that are formulated for color-treated hair. These products help to maintain the integrity of your hair and prevent fading.
2. Limit Heat Styling
Minimize the use of heat tools such as straighteners and curling irons. Heat can exacerbate the damage done by bleaching and color treatment. When you must use heat, apply a protective spray.
3. Regular Deep Conditioning Treatments
Consider weekly deep conditioning treatments to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. This is particularly important for bleached hair, which can often feel dry and brittle.
4. Protection from Sun Exposure
The sun can fade color-treated hair, so consider wearing hats or using UV protection sprays when spending extended periods outdoors.
The Benefits of Adding Lowlights to Bleached Hair
Integrating lowlights into bleached hair is more than just an aesthetic choice. Here are several benefits that come with this coloring technique:
Enhanced Dimension
Lowlights create depth and reflect light differently, resulting in a multi-dimensional effect that makes your hair more visually appealing.
Softens the Contrast
If your bleached hair is very light, adding lowlights can help soften the contrast, making your color look more natural and blended.
Less Maintenance
Lowlights tend to grow out more gracefully compared to highlights because the darker tones are typically closer to the roots of your natural color. This results in less frequent touch-ups.
Customizable Look
Lowlights offer a wide range of color options, allowing you to personalize your hair color. You can choose shades that complement your skin tone or reflect your personality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding lowlights to bleached hair is not just possible but also a fantastic way to diversify your hair color while maintaining your vibrant look. With attention to hair health, careful application, and thoughtful aftercare, you can achieve stunning results that enhance the natural beauty of your bleached hair. Embrace the possibilities of lowlights, and enjoy a captivating, multidimensional hairstyle that reflects your unique style!
Can you put lowlights in bleached hair?
Yes, you can definitely put lowlights in bleached hair. Lowlights can add depth, dimension, and richness to your hair color, creating a more natural and multi-tonal look. The process involves applying darker shades to specific sections of the hair, which contrasts beautifully with the lighter bleached strands. This technique is especially beneficial for those who have previously bleached their hair but now want to refresh the look without committing to a full dye job.
When applying lowlights, it is crucial to choose shades that complement your bleached hair. This can range from soft caramel tones to deeper chocolate hues, depending on your overall desired effect. It’s advisable to consult with a professional stylist to ensure that the lowlights are applied in a way that enhances your hair’s texture and existing color.
Will lowlights damage my bleached hair?
Lowlights can be less damaging to bleached hair compared to a complete color overhaul. Since lowlights typically use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye, they do not require as much lifting or harsh chemicals as bleaching does. This means that the overall impact on hair health can be significantly reduced. Additionally, the darker color might help to blend any unwanted brassiness that bleached hair can sometimes exhibit.
However, it’s essential to approach the process with care. While lowlights are generally safer, any chemical treatment can cause some degree of damage. It’s advisable to use a bonding treatment during or after the application to help mitigate any potential harm and to keep your hair looking shiny and healthy.
How do I choose the right color for lowlights?
Choosing the right color for lowlights involves considering your base color, skin tone, and the overall effect you want to achieve. A general guideline is to select a shade that is two to three tones darker than your existing bleached hair. Warm-toned individuals may opt for lowlights with golden or honey undertones, while cool-toned individuals might prefer browns with ash or neutral undertones.
It’s also beneficial to consider how the lowlights will blend with your natural hair color if it is showing at the roots. Consulting with a professional colorist can help you determine the best shades and placement for a seamless and flattering outcome. They can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific condition and undertones of your hair.
How long do lowlights last in bleached hair?
Lowlights in bleached hair typically last between four to six weeks before they start to fade. The longevity of lowlights may depend on several factors, including the type of dye used, hair care practices, and the frequency of washing. Generally, semi-permanent dyes tend to fade faster than permanent ones, which means you may have to revisit the salon more often if you opt for semis.
To extend the life of your lowlights, consider using color-safe shampoos and conditioners, and limit exposure to heat styling and harsh sunlight. Additionally, avoiding frequent washing can help maintain the vibrancy of the lowlights and prevent premature fading.
Can I do lowlights at home on bleached hair?
While it is possible to apply lowlights at home, it is generally recommended to seek professional help, especially if you have bleached hair. Achieving a natural look with lowlights requires a careful application technique that might be challenging for those without experience in hair coloring. Home kits often lack the specific guidance and color options that a salon provides, which can lead to unsatisfactory results or an unbalanced look.
If you still choose to do lowlights at home, ensure you follow detailed instructions from a quality product. Perform a strand test first to see how your hair reacts to the dye, and work in small sections to apply the color evenly. Be patient and take your time to achieve the desired effect.
What should I do to maintain lowlights in bleached hair?
To maintain lowlights in bleached hair, it is vital to implement a good hair care routine. Start by using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair, as they help preserve vibrancy and minimize color fading. Additionally, consider incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your regimen to keep your hair hydrated and healthy, particularly after color services.
Limiting the use of heat styling tools and protecting your hair from sun exposure can also contribute to maintaining the vibrancy of your lowlights. Whenever possible, try to let your hair air dry and use heat protectants when styling. Regular touch-ups with a professional stylist will help keep your lowlights fresh and prevent them from looking dull over time.