Lowlights are a great way to add dimension and depth to your hair. They work by creating darker shades among lighter pieces of hair, which gives the hair a multidimensional look. However, sometimes lowlights can end up being too dark, which can make the hair look muddy or even turn it into a monochromatic mess. That’s when you need to lighten them.
If you’re dealing with dark lowlights, don’t worry, there are ways to lighten them. In this article, we’ll go through some tips and tricks that will help you achieve the perfect balance of light and dark in your hair. We’ll also cover some common mistakes people make when trying to lighten their lowlights and how to avoid them. Keep reading to find out how to lighten lowlights that are too dark.
The Causes and Effects of Dark Lowlights
Dark lowlights refer to hair that has been colored with hair dye that is darker than the natural hair color. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including using a hair dye that is too dark or leaving the dye on for too long. Dark lowlights can have several negative effects on one’s appearance. These include making the hair look dull and lifeless, as well as drawing attention away from the face and other features.
Another negative effect of dark lowlights is that they can make the skin look pale and washed out. This is because the hair color may clash with the natural skin tone, resulting in an unflattering look. Additionally, dark lowlights can make the hair look flat and lack dimension, which can be especially problematic for those with thin or fine hair. Overall, it is important to understand the causes and effects of dark lowlights in order to determine the best way to lighten them and achieve a more desirable look.
Understanding Highlighting Techniques and Their Effects
Highlighting techniques are used to add depth, dimension and visual interest to your hair. It’s important to understand the different methods so you can make an informed decision about what works best for your hair and desired style. Foil highlights are the most traditional highlighting technique in which hair is sectioned off and color is applied to small pieces of hair and then wrapped with foil. This allows for precise placement and controlled application, creating a subtle or dramatic look.
Balayage highlights are the more modern and popular highlighting technique. This method involves freehand painting of color onto larger sections of hair, giving a more natural-looking result. Balayage can help to create a softer, sun-kissed effect and is often ideal for achieving an Ombre or Sombre effect. It’s important to consider how these highlighting techniques will work in conjunction with your current hair color, as well as the overall health of your hair when making your decision about how to approach your lowlights that are too dark.
Using Clarifying Shampoo to Lighten Lowlights
Using clarifying shampoo to lighten lowlights is a simple and effective method that doesn’t require any professional skills. Clarifying shampoo is designed to remove buildup and impurities from your hair, but it can also help to lighten hair color. When used on lowlights, clarifying shampoo works by stripping away some of the darker color, making it appear lighter.
To use clarifying shampoo to lighten lowlights, wet your hair thoroughly and apply the shampoo. Massage your scalp and work the shampoo through your hair, focusing on the areas where the lowlights are too dark. Leave the shampoo in for a few minutes before rinsing it out with warm water. You may need to repeat this process a few times over the course of a few weeks to achieve the desired level of lightness. It’s important to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture to your hair, as clarifying shampoo can be drying. Overall, using clarifying shampoo is a simple, affordable, and low-risk method for lightening lowlights that are too dark.
Natural Remedies for Lightening Dark Lowlights
Natural remedies for lightening dark lowlights are a great alternative to chemical hair lightening products which tend to be harsh on hair. These remedies are not only effective but also safe for use on all hair types.
One natural remedy for lightening dark lowlights is a mixture of cinnamon powder and honey. Simply mix a tablespoon of cinnamon powder with one tablespoon of honey and apply the paste to your hair, leaving it on for 30 minutes before washing it out. Another effective remedy is using lemon juice. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water and apply the mixture to your hair, leaving it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it with cool water. These remedies will gradually lighten your lowlights without causing any damage to your hair.
Corrective Coloring Techniques for Dark Lowlights
Corrective coloring techniques for dark lowlights can be used to lighten them and bring them back to the desired shade. One technique involves applying a color remover to strip away the dark color and reveal the underlying light color. Once the remover has been applied, the hair can be washed and dried, and then re-colored with a lighter shade.
Another technique is to use a lightening treatment that works to gradually lift the color over time. This treatment is usually a mix of peroxide and bleach that is applied to the hair and left for a specified amount of time before being rinsed out. The result is lighter lowlights that blend in with the rest of the hair. It is important to be careful when using these techniques to ensure that the hair is not damaged in the process. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional hair colorist who can guide you through the process safely and effectively.
Salon Treatments for Lightening Dark Lowlights
Salon treatments can be an effective solution for lightening dark lowlights in your hair. Your hair salon may offer various treatments, including highlights and balayage. Both of these methods involve applying bleach to parts of your hair to lighten the color.
Highlights involve applying bleach to small, thin sections of hair to create lighter strands throughout your hair. This method can be particularly effective for lightening dark lowlights because the bleach used can penetrate the hair strands and lift the color. Balayage, on the other hand, involves painting bleach onto your hair to create a more natural, sun-kissed effect. This technique can be ideal for lowlights that need a more subtle lift. However, both treatments should only be carried out by a professional hairdresser to avoid damage to your hair, and we recommend seeking advice from your stylist beforehand.
Preventing and Managing Overly Dark Lowlights in the Future
Preventing and managing overly dark lowlights in the future is essential to avoid repeating the same mistakes again. One of the best ways to prevent excessive darkness is by using the right shade of hair color. Consult with your stylist prior to getting your next set of lowlights to ensure that the color matches your natural tone and doesn’t darken your hair exceptionally.
Another way to manage overly dark lowlights is by investing in high-quality hair products designed for color-treated hair. Choose products with color-safe ingredients that won’t strip the color from your hair. Also, be sure to avoid over-processing your hair with frequent color treatments and bleaching. This can make your hair more prone to breakage and excessive damage, leading to dark lowlights that are challenging to rectify. By following these tips, you’ll be able to prevent overly dark lowlights in the future and enjoy perfectly colored hair all year round.
The Bottom Line
Achieving the perfect balance of highlights and lowlights is crucial to any hair coloring job. However, if your lowlights end up too dark, there are various ways to lighten them up without starting over. From using clarifying shampoos to applying color lighteners, there are several DIY solutions that can help you achieve the desired results.
It is important to note that lightening dark lowlights can be a tricky process that requires patience and careful consideration. If you are not confident in your skills, it is best to seek the help of a professional stylist. With the right approach, you can lighten your lowlights and create a beautiful, natural-looking hue that enhances your features and complements your overall look.
