Highlighting your hair is a popular way to enhance your natural shade and add depth and dimension to your locks. However, many people wonder how long the process takes, especially if you’re getting a full head of highlights. The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on various factors such as your hair type, the color and thickness of your hair, and the technique used.
In this article, we will explore how long a full head of highlights takes, the factors that affect the process, and some tips on how to prepare for your appointment to ensure the best results. Whether you’re considering getting highlights for the first time or have had them before, this guide will help you understand what to expect from your appointment.
Understanding the Hair Highlighting Process
Understanding the hair highlighting process is essential before coloring your hair. Typically, a full head of highlights involves lightening or adding color to all of your hair. It is a hair coloring technique that uses foil or balayage to add lighter strands of color to the hair. Highlights can vary in shade from subtle blonde to bold, contrasting colors, and can be tailored to match your skin tone and hair type.
The process itself can vary depending on the salon, the hair technician’s experience, and the desired look. However, as a general rule, a full head of highlights can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to complete. This time is necessary to section off your hair and apply the highlights. When selecting a salon, ask about their timing to ensure you have enough time to fully complete the process without being rushed.
Factors That Affect the Time Required for Highlighting
The time required for a full head of highlights can vary based on multiple factors. One important factor is the thickness and length of the hair. Generally, the longer and thicker the hair, the longer the highlighting process will take. It is important to note that the highlighting process can take up to an hour or more for people with long hair.
Another factor that affects the highlighting time is the desired result. If you want a subtle highlight, it may take less time; however, if you want a dramatic change in color, it may require more time to achieve the desired result. Additionally, the skill of the hair stylist and the technique used can also have an impact on the time required for highlighting. It is crucial to select a stylist with experience and expertise in color treatments to ensure your hair is in good hands.
How Long Does a Typical Full Head of Highlights Take?
A typical full head of highlights usually takes between 2-4 hours depending on a number of factors. The length and thickness of your hair, the desired color and the technique used can all impact the time it takes for the process to be completed.
A skilled stylist will take the time to apply the highlights evenly throughout the hair, ensuring that the color looks natural and well blended. They may also need to apply additional treatments, such as toner or gloss, to achieve the desired shade and tone. Be prepared to sit for a while during the process, but the end result will be worth it.
The Benefits of a Full Head of Highlights
A full head of highlights can create a stunning visual impact, but it offers more than style. This hair color treatment can be a perfect solution for people with thin or limp hair. A full head of highlights occurs when bleach or color is applied to most or all the natural hair strands, providing a distinct contrast with the hair’s natural base color. The contrast makes the hair appear fuller, thicker, and more voluminous. It’s a great solution for fine or thin hair that lacks body and depth.
Highlights are also an excellent option for people who want to brighten up their look without going for dramatic changes. It’s a subtle, low-maintenance way of transforming your overall appearance. Additionally, a full head of highlights can last for several months, depending on how fast your hair grows. And unlike other treatments that require frequent maintenance, highlights gradually fade without the need for touch-ups, making them a practical and cost-effective hair color solution.
Tips to Ensure a Successful Highlighting Process
To ensure a successful highlighting process, it is essential to communicate your desired look with your stylist. Bring in pictures of your preferred highlights and be specific about the placement and intensity of the highlights. Clear communication will assist your stylist in producing the look you want while understanding the amount of time they will need to complete the process.
It is also important to take care of your hair before and after the highlighting process. Avoid washing your hair one or two days before your appointment as this can cause additional stress and irritation to your scalp. After the process, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to help protect and nourish your hair. It is best to use color-safe products to ensure that your highlights remain vibrant and bright until your next appointment.
Cost Factors to Consider Before Getting Full Head of Highlights
Before getting a full head of highlights, it is important to consider the cost factors associated with the process. The first factor to consider is the expertise of the stylist. A highly skilled stylist who works at a high-end salon will charge more compared to a stylist who works at a local salon, or a trainee doing their apprenticeship. The cost also depends on the location and the average cost of living in the area.
Additionally, the length and thickness of your hair can also affect the cost of a full head of highlights. If you have long and thick hair, the stylist will require more time and products, thus increasing the cost. Lastly, the type of highlights you want will also affect the cost. For instance, if you opt for balayage highlights, which require more skill and time, you will have to pay more. It’s essential to factor in all these costs to ensure that you plan a budget that suits your needs and expectations well.
Maintaining Your Highlighted Hair: Dos and Don’ts
Your newly-highlighted hair requires some extra TLC to maintain its vibrancy and health. Here are some dos and don’ts to follow:
Dos: Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair moisturized. Apply a leave-in conditioner to reduce stress and damage caused by heat styling. Consider getting regular trims to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends. Use a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush to avoid hair breakage and damage. Cover your hair with a hat or scarf when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Don’ts: Avoid washing your hair daily, as it can strip away natural oils and fade the color. Do not use hot tools on high heat settings regularly, as it can cause hair damage and fade the color. Avoid using any hair products that contain alcohol and harsh chemicals such as sulfates and parabens. Refrain from swimming in chlorinated water without a swim cap, as it can cause discoloration and damage to the highlights.
Final Thoughts
To wrap up, the time it takes to complete a full head of highlights largely depends on the hairstylist and the technique being used. However, it usually takes an average of 3-4 hours, especially when using foils and multiple colors. Balayage, on the other hand, can take longer but is suitable for a more natural look.
It is essential to communicate your expectations and hair history to your hairstylist before starting, as this can affect the length of time it takes to complete the process. Additionally, ensure that you take proper care of your highlighted hair to avoid premature fading and maintain the desired look. Overall, highlight treatments require patience but can leave you feeling confident and beautiful in the end.