When highlighting made its first big debut it the Hair Industry, there was only one method available. The cap method of applying highlights involves the use of a special perforated cap that is placed over the hair. Strands of hair (the amount depends on how much highlighting is desired by the client) are pulled through the perforations with the use of a knitting needle. This method works well for short hair (we all remember the 90's trend with the frosted tips!). This method can be hard to control the placement of the highlights and any bleeding spots, it also can be painful for the client having their long hair pulled through the cap.
Luckily we've come a long way since highlighting was first introduced in to the beauty industry. There are plenty of different techniques to give clients exactly what they are looking to achieve.
Highlights with Foil
This method has been around for about 25 years. It is successful, accurate, and a preference for many stylists due to the control they have with this technique. Foils are used to give fine, natural looking highlights placed very close to the scalp. This technique can also be used to give the "chunky" effect as well.
Balayage/Free Hand Painting
Balayage is a French colouring technique that was developed in the 1970s. It’s a technique where the colour is applied by hand rather than using the traditional foiling. Balayage can be used in even the shortest pixie crop however the best results is in hair below the shoulders. The great thing about balayage is so many different effects from soft, natural highlights to something strong and punky can be achieved. It's also low maintenance which is a big key point for many clients.
Ombre
Ombre is a technique that can be done with foils or free handed. Hair is painted with bleach from the mid-shaft to the ends, with the densest area at the bottom of the hair shaft.
Done haphazardly, the effect can create a stark, unappealing contrast. However done correctly it is a low maintenance hair style that is up and trending!
Slicing
Slices are when large sections of the hair are highlighted which results in a more dramatic end result. Its great for a client that is interested in chunky highlights and it s great technique to give a client added texture and depth. Paneling is always done with foils! Never free-handed!
Tipping
Tipping is a technique where the stylist lightens just the tip of the hair. It is always done freehanded. Clients like this look because it is quick, painless, natural, and it grows out!
Baby lights
The newest highlighting trend! Think of a child's hair color, how it has all those beautiful different natural colors, as you may have guessed parents like to match their children's hair just how they like to dress in matching outfits. Finally a new technique arrived where the stylist can give the client what they desire. Baby lights! Baby lights are very delicate highlights and low lights. The hair is separated into tiny minute sections and hair colour and bleach is applied to give the client the dimension in their hair they desire while still looking natural. The drawback to this technique is although is sounds fairly simple it is very time consuming and in result costs a pretty penny.
What are your favorite highlighting methods to perform?
The Evolution of Highlights
