Highlighting your hair can give it a whole new look. It can also help brighten up your face and make you look more youthful. However, before you get highlights, you may be wondering if you need to wash your hair.
Some hairstylists say it’s best to wash your hair before getting highlights, while others say you should come to the salon with your hair unwashed. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons for both arguments and help you decide whether you should wash your hair before having highlights.
The importance of clean hair for successful highlights
When it comes to getting highlights, having clean hair is absolutely crucial. This is because the oils and product buildup on your hair can impact how the color takes, causing it to appear uneven or even distort the final result. In fact, many hairstylists recommend washing your hair a day or two before your appointment in order to ensure that your hair is clean and free of any styling products, oils or residue.
Furthermore, when you have clean hair, your stylist can get a better idea of your natural hair color, which can help them determine the best course of action for achieving your desired result. If you have colored your hair or used any treatments recently, washing your hair beforehand will help ensure that the new color is as accurate as possible. So, if you want the best possible outcome when it comes to your highlights, taking the time to properly wash and prepare your hair beforehand is essential.
How washing before highlights affects the coloring process
Washing your hair before getting highlights can affect the coloring process in positive and negative ways. On one hand, washing your hair can strip away natural oils and debris that may interfere with the highlighting process. This gives the stylist a better canvas to work with, ensuring better color results and more even distribution.
On the other hand, washing your hair before highlights can also strip away some of its natural oils and moisture, potentially leading to more damage to the hair. This can be especially problematic if your hair has already been chemically treated or is prone to dryness. Additionally, washing your hair right before a highlighting session can cause scalp sensitivity, which may make the process uncomfortable or even painful. Ultimately, whether or not to wash your hair before highlights depends on your hair type, texture, and overall health.
The benefits of washing hair before getting highlights done
Washing your hair before highlighting provides several benefits that are worth considering. Firstly, it ensures that the hair is clean, free from any dirt, oils or product buildup, which can affect the outcome of the highlighting process. Better still, washing the hair beforehand helps to remove any excess natural oil, which can cause the color to fade quickly and look dull over time.
Secondly, washing before highlighting allows the dye to penetrate into the hair strands exceptionally well. This ensures the color is vivid and vibrant, and also that it lasts longer. Therefore, it is advisable to wash your hair at least 24 hours before your highlights appointment. However, keep in mind that using volumizing or clarifying shampoo could open the cuticles and roughen the hair surface, so it’s best to stick to a gentle yet effective shampoo. In general, choosing to wash your hair before highlights can save you a lot of trouble and give you long-lasting, shiny hair color.
The drawbacks of skipping the pre-highlights wash
Skipping the pre-highlights wash may seem like the convenient option, but it comes with a warning. The natural oils and dirt accumulated on your scalp and hair lead to the formation of a layer referred to as a “barrier” that is a hindrance to the highlights. Using bleach or lightening agents over this oily layer could result in uneven highlights, which is a nightmare for anyone seeking a perfect blonde or caramel highlight.
Moreover, applying pre-highlights products on dirty, oily hair might give a finished result that is not only patchy but also fades away quickly, costing you time and money in the long run. Simply put, skipping the pre-highlights wash is not worth it. So, make sure you deep cleanse your locks before booking your next highlights appointment.
How often should you wash your hair before getting highlights
How often you should wash your hair before getting highlights depends on your hair type and lifestyle. It is recommended to wash your hair at least 24-48 hours before your highlights appointment to ensure that your scalp has enough natural oils to protect it during the coloring process. If you wash your hair too close to your appointment, your scalp can become more sensitive, and the color may not adhere properly to your hair.
However, if you have very oily hair or sweat a lot, you may need to wash your hair more frequently. In this case, it’s recommended to wash your hair the night before your appointment and skip the hair products, such as conditioner and hair oil, to avoid any product buildup that can affect the highlights result. Always discuss your hair type and lifestyle with your stylist to determine the best approach for your specific hair care needs.
Best practices for hair washing before highlights
Best practices for hair washing before highlights are crucial to ensure the perfect outcome for the highlighting process. First, it is recommended to wash your hair at least 24 hours before your appointment, as freshly washed hair tends to be more slippery and may cause the highlighting process to be challenging. Additionally, refrain from using any conditioner or hair products as they leave a residue that can impact the highlighting process.
Secondly, opt for a gentle shampoo that is sulfate-free as it will not strip the natural oils from your hair. Sulfate-free shampoos also have less lather, making it easier to rinse thoroughly to prevent any residue. It is also essential to avoid hot water as it can irritate the scalp and dry out the hair, leading to unwanted breakage and damage. Following these simple best practices for hair washing before highlights will ensure that your hair is in perfect condition, resulting in beautiful highlights that last.
Expert tips for maintaining your hair health with highlights
Expert Tips for Maintaining Your Hair Health with Highlights
After highlighting your hair, it is crucial to take care of your locks to ensure they remain healthy and vibrant-looking. Here are some expert tips to keep your hair in perfect condition:
Firstly, use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing it to dry out. Instead, opt for a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner that will nourish and strengthen your hair. Secondly, try not to overwash your hair. Washing your hair too frequently can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Experts recommend washing your hair every two to three days to keep it healthy and hydrated.
Lastly, consider using hair masks or deep conditioners weekly, as they are an ideal way to restore moisture to your hair. Try incorporating a leave-in conditioner into your daily hair routine to provide your locks with hydration throughout the day. By following these expert tips, you can maintain healthy and shiny hair while rocking your stunning and vibrant highlights.
In Summary
To answer the question of whether or not you should wash your hair before getting highlights, the answer is yes and no. It ultimately depends on the type of highlights you are getting and the current state of your hair. For traditional foil highlights, it is best to come in with clean and dry hair to ensure that the color is evenly distributed. However, for balayage or ombre highlights, it is recommended to come in with hair that hasn’t been washed in a day or two to help the color blend better.
Regardless of which method you choose, it is essential to communicate with your hairstylist and follow their instructions to achieve the best results. Talking to your hairstylist about your hair type and daily routine can help them tailor your treatment to your individual needs. Ultimately, taking care of your hair before and after highlights can help you maintain the color and keep your locks healthy and shiny.