For example, applying lowlights is a great way of softening hair that’s turned too blonde, and highlights look ultra-glowy when swept through a deep brunette mane.Ģ. You can apply lowlights to dark hair and scatter highlights through an already-blonde base, but you’ll typically see a bigger impact when you opt for a contrast in tones. Highlights show up more on dark hair, while lowlights appear more prominent through lighter locks. Now you’ve got the full lowdown on highlights and lowlights, let’s break down some of the key differences, from the types of formulas you should use to the finished look you’ll achieve… This is perfect if your client has any silver strays they want to disguise, as you can tactically paint on lowlights to cover those very first signs of gray. Not only does it deliver pure pigment and shine, but it also gives you up to 100% gray coverage. You could also try permanent Koleston Perfect. It’s a gentler option that fades nicely for clients who aren’t ready to commit fully to a darker look. On bright blondes, this might mean adding honey blonde hues to lend a little warmth, while on light brown hair, slices of dark chocolate brown enhance the richness of locks and up the shine.Īs for which shade to use, we love demi-permanent Color Touch for creating lowlights. You can apply lowlights from root to tip or with a reverse balayage technique, which sees deeper shades painted through the mid-lengths and ends to break up the base color. Unlike highlights, they’re typically achieved with a demi-permanent, toner or gloss instead of a pre-lightener, which means lowlights are also a gentler option – ideal for clients with sensitized hair. They’re added when your client wants a little extra depth in their hair and can be used to neutralize brassy tones or correct color that’s been lifted too light. This means redheads would be enhanced with lighter coppery tones, while highlights for brown hair may have a warm caramel blonde feel.
The balayage in foils – dubbed ‘foilyage’ – allows for greater lightening, so you can add extra brightness wherever your client desires.Īs for the level of lift, this all depends on the final look your client craves, but we typically suggest staying within three levels of the base color for the most natural transition. Balayage is an ultra-creative technique, allowing you to personalize your client’s look with open-air, freehand lightening and, sometimes, a scattering of highlights in foils.
Highlights work through any base color, from blonde shades to bold reds and even dark brunettes, adding light-boosting luminosity that flatters everyone.Īnd, these highlights can be applied in all manner of styles, whether you paint them on from root to tip, or feather towards the root to nail a soft and sun-kissed balayage finish. They brighten up locks, whether you go for only one level of lift or a more contrasting effect. Simply put, highlights are strands of hair that are lifted to be a few shades lighter than the base. Follow us instagram facebook youtube pinterest twitter