Highlights are a popular hair coloring technique that adds dimension and depth to your hair. They can enhance your natural hair color, give you a sun-kissed look, or help you achieve a bolder style. However, like any hair color, highlights will eventually fade over time.
If you are considering getting highlights or have recently added them to your hair, you may be wondering how long they will last. The answer depends on several factors, such as the type of highlights you have, your hair’s natural color and texture, the products you use, and how often you wash and style your hair. In this article, we will explore the different types of highlights and discuss how long you can expect them to last before they begin to fade.
Understanding the Causes of Highlight Fading
Highlights are a fantastic way to add depth and dimension to your hair. But, like all dye jobs, their vibrancy will inevitably fade over time. There are several factors that contribute to highlight fading, the most significant being the type of dye used. Highlights that have been created using semi-permanent dyes will fade quicker than those created using permanent dyes. Semi-permanent dyes do not penetrate the hair shaft deeply, whereas permanent dyes saturate the hair, providing more extended-lasting results.
Another factor that contributes to highlight fading is the frequency in which you wash your hair. The more frequently you wash your hair, the more likely your highlights are to fade. Shampoo and hot water are notorious for stripping away color from hair. When you wash your hair, it is essential to use color-safe shampoo and cool water to minimize fading. Protecting your hair from the sun is also crucial. UV rays can break down the dye molecules within your hair, causing your highlights to fade more quickly. Therefore, it is always recommended to wear a hat or use hair sun protection products when outdoors.
Factors That Affect Highlight Longevity
The longevity of highlights is influenced by a myriad of factors. One significant factor is the quality of the highlighting service. A top-notch highlighting service will use high-quality products and a skilled stylist who understands the best technique to use on the client’s hair. In contrast, a substandard highlighting service will use poor quality products and an inexperienced stylist who may cause more damage to your hair, making the highlights fade quicker. Therefore, you should choose a stylist and salon carefully before booking an appointment.
Another factor that affects the longevity of highlights is the client’s hair type and its health. Healthy hair absorbs color better than damaged hair, which may cause highlights to fade quicker. Additionally, the porosity of hair plays an essential role in its ability to retain color. If the hair is highly porous, it will absorb color easily, but it will also release it just as quickly. Overly porous hair may need multiple highlighting sessions to achieve the desired look, and even then, it may not last long. To maintain the hue and vibrancy of highlights, it’s essential to keep your hair healthy by using quality hair products and moisturizing regularly.
Maintaining Your Highlights to Extend Their Lifespan
Maintaining your highlights is essential to extend their lifespan and keep them looking fresh. First and foremost, invest in high-quality hair care products designed for color-treated hair. These products are formulated to protect and nourish your highlights while preventing them from fading. Look for shampoos and conditioners that contain UV protection and ingredients like keratin and vitamin E to strengthen and hydrate your hair.
Regular treatments, such as glosses and toners, can also help to maintain the vibrancy of your highlights. These treatments not only add shine but also enhance the color, making your highlights appear brighter and more defined. Finally, avoid excessive heat styling and limit exposure to chlorine and saltwater, as these can all contribute to fading. By taking care of your highlights, you can prolong their life and keep your look fresh and vibrant for longer.
Signs Your Highlights are Fading and How to Fix Them
When highlights start to fade, you’ll notice a few telltale signs. If your highlights are becoming dull and brassy, it’s likely that they are fading. You may also notice that your blonde highlights are turning yellow or that your dark highlights are becoming lighter. In addition, you may notice that your highlights are becoming less noticeable and the contrast between your natural hair color and the highlights is starting to diminish.
There are several ways to fix fading highlights. One option is to get a toner treatment, which can help restore the color and vibrancy of your highlights. Another option is to get a touch-up service, which involves adding new highlights to your hair. Finally, using color-safe and protective hair care products can help keep your highlights looking fresh and vibrant for longer. By monitoring your highlights and taking proactive measures to fix any fading, you can maintain a gorgeous, vibrant look that will turn heads wherever you go.
The Role of Hair Colorists in Prolonging Highlight Longevity
Hair colorists play a crucial role in extending the lifespan of your highlights. They can suggest the most suitable technique and product for your hair color and type which can help slow down the fading process. They can also advise on the appropriate time gap between touch-ups, keeping in mind the condition of your hair.
Additionally, colorists may recommend using color-safe products and avoiding excessive heat styling tools that can potentially strip the color off your highlights. They can also guide on the frequency of washes, and using a deep conditioning mask once or twice a week to restore moisture and keep your hair healthy. Having a trusted hair colorist who understands your hair needs and preferences can ultimately lead to a longer-lasting, beautiful highlight color.
Creatively Refreshing Your Faded Highlights
Creatively refreshing your faded highlights can be a fun way to switch up your look without completely redoing your hair. Some options to consider include adding in new highlights in slightly different shades or dimensions to create a more nuanced effect. Alternatively, you could experiment with ombre or balayage techniques to create a more gradual fade from your roots to your tips.
Another option to consider is toning your hair with a tinted or color-depositing shampoo or conditioner. This can help to restore some of the vibrancy to your hair color, while also helping to keep your hair healthy and strong. Whatever approach you choose, taking the time to refresh your highlights can be a great way to keep your hair looking fresh and exciting, no matter how long it has been since your last salon appointment.
Choosing Highlight Shades That Last Longer.
Choosing Highlight Shades That Last Longer:
If you want your highlights to last longer, it’s important to choose the right shades. The longevity of your highlights depends on the color of your hair, the type of bleach used by your stylist, and the tone of your chosen highlights. To make sure your highlights last as long as possible, it’s best to consult with a professional colorist. They can guide you on the shades that will work best for your hair type, style, and skin tone.
If you have dark hair, it may be more challenging to keep your highlights looking vibrant. However, choosing a shade that’s only slightly lighter than your natural hair color will help it blend in, and fade out more subtly. If you have lighter hair, you can experiment with bold and bright highlight shades. In any case, make sure to communicate your goals with your stylist so they can help you select the best highlight shades that will last longer.
The Conclusion
In summary, highlights will eventually fade over time, but there are steps you can take to prolong their life span. It is important to maintain a healthy hair care routine, use color-safe products, and avoid excessive washing and heat styling. Regular touch-ups with a professional can also help keep your highlights looking fresh.
Ultimately, the longevity of your highlights depends on various factors such as your hair type, the color used, and how often you expose your hair to elements that accelerate fading. By following the above tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can extend the lifespan of your highlights and enjoy their beautiful effects for a longer period. Remember to always consult with a professional stylist for personalized advice and treatment options.