Do Highlights Damage Hair? What to Know Before You Book
Highlights have been a popular hair coloring method for decades, providing a way to add dimension and depth to your locks.
However, with the rise of social media and beauty standards, it's not uncommon for people to be concerned about the potential damage highlights can cause to their hair. With so many different articles and opinions out there, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out the truth about highlights and their effects on hair health.
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know before booking an appointment for highlights. From discussing how highlights work in comparison to other hair dyeing methods, addressing common concerns about damage, and providing tips on how to keep your highlighted hair healthy, we've got you covered.
How Highlights Work
Highlights involve the process of lightening certain sections of hair to create contrast and dimension. This is achieved by using a color or bleach mixture that is applied strategically on specific sections of hair, usually with foils. The result is lighter strands of hair scattered throughout the natural color, creating a sun-kissed effect.
Compared to other methods like all-over hair dyeing, highlights are a more targeted approach that can add depth and texture to your hair without completely changing its natural color. They also allow for more versatility in styling since they can be placed in different areas and at varying degrees of intensity.
How Highlights Can Damage Hair
Highlights, while visually striking, can have damaging effects on hair due to the chemical and physical processes involved. The use of bleach and other lightening agents is a key factor, as these chemicals strip the hair of its natural pigment and essential moisture. This can leave the hair dry, brittle, and prone to further damage.
Additionally, the process weakens the hair’s structure by compromising the protective cuticle layer. Once the cuticle is damaged, the hair becomes more vulnerable to breakage and split ends. Heat tools frequently used during highlighting, such as blow dryers and flat irons, add another layer of risk.
The high temperatures can exacerbate dryness, further weakening the already-compromised strands. To prevent long-term damage, proper aftercare and hydration treatments are crucial for maintaining healthy hair post-highlights.
Factors That Influence the Level of Damage
Hair Type and Condition
The natural state of your hair plays a crucial role in how it responds to highlighting. Healthy, untreated hair is generally more resilient and can endure the process better than fine, brittle, or previously damaged hair. On the other hand, already compromised strands are more susceptible to breakage and dryness during and after the lightening process.
Lightening Level
The degree of lightening significantly impacts the level of damage. A subtle lift in color is less aggressive compared to extreme bleaching, which involves stripping the pigments from your hair. The more drastic the color change, the greater the stress on your hair’s structure.
Stylist Expertise
The skill and experience of your stylist are critical. A knowledgeable professional uses advanced techniques and high-quality products to safeguard hair health, minimizing damage during the process.
Aftercare Routine
Your aftercare routine can make a substantial difference. Regular deep conditioning, hydrating treatments, and the use of gentle, sulfate-free products help restore moisture, improve strength, and preserve hair health after highlights.
Ways to Minimize Damage from Highlights
Choosing a professional stylist is essential for minimizing damage. Experienced colorists use precise techniques and high-quality products that protect your hair’s integrity. Opt for gentle products, like ammonia-free or low-damage lightening agents, to reduce harsh chemical exposure.
Incorporating deep conditioning treatments before and after your appointment can strengthen and hydrate your hair, enhancing its resilience. Limit heat styling to avoid additional stress, and always use a heat protectant if hot tools are necessary.
Lastly, spacing out your highlight appointments gives your hair ample time to recover, ensuring it stays healthy and strong while still looking vibrant. These practices collectively safeguard your hair, allowing you to enjoy beautiful highlights without compromising its overall health.
Understanding Hair Color Techniques: Highlights vs. Balayage
When it comes to hair coloring, highlights and balayage are two of the most widely used and popular techniques.
Highlights involve sectioning strands of hair and applying lightener from root to tip, resulting in a consistent and structured appearance. This method creates a more defined contrast, making it an excellent choice for those seeking bold color transitions or a sun-kissed effect.
Balayage, by contrast, is a freehand painting technique applied to the hair’s surface, creating a softer, more natural gradient of color that mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun. Unlike highlights, which require regular touch-ups as the hair grows out, balayage offers a low-maintenance option as it blends effortlessly with the natural hair color over time.
Both techniques deliver stunning, customized results tailored to individual preferences, balancing aesthetic goals with maintenance needs.
Professional Aftercare Tips for Highlighted Hair
To preserve the vibrancy of your highlights and maintain overall hair health, it is essential to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are gentler, helping to retain both moisture and color integrity.
Incorporate weekly deep conditioning treatments or protein masks into your haircare routine to strengthen and nourish your strands, replenishing any lost nutrients. Protect your hair from UV damage by wearing a hat or using products with built-in UV filters, particularly during extended periods outdoors.
To minimize fading and dryness from chlorine exposure, rinse your hair with fresh water before swimming or opt for a swim cap. Additionally, regular trims are crucial for maintaining healthy ends and preventing split ends from progressing up the hair shaft.
With consistent care, your highlights will remain vibrant, and your hair will stay strong and resilient.
FAQs
Can highlights damage hair, especially for fine hair or coarse hair types?
Yes—highlights damage hair when done improperly or without proper care, especially for fine hair or previously processed hair strands. A skilled hair colorist will choose a highlighting technique that minimizes damage and keeps your hair's condition as healthy as possible.
Do blonde highlights or going from dark hair cause more damage?
Lightening dark hair to achieve blonde highlights can cause more damage if not done carefully. The hair cuticle is lifted during processing, which affects hair's natural oils and can lead to dryness. Use color safe shampoo and avoid excessive heat to protect your lightened hair.
How can I protect my lightened hair from fading or damage after my salon appointment?
To maintain color vibrancy and prevent fade faster, use color safe products, limit heat styling tools, and always apply heat protectant spray. Avoid washing wet hair too often and shield hair from UV rays to replenish moisture and keep it shiny.
Is highlighting time consuming and does it require regular maintenance?
Yes—highlights are time consuming and require regular maintenance to keep the color fresh and close to your natural hue or original color. With hair extensions or natural hair, consistent hair care and touch-ups are essential to ensure minimal impact on your strands.
Conclusion
Highlights can add stunning dimension and brightness to your hair—but like any chemical process, they come with the potential for damage if not done or maintained correctly. Understanding how highlights work, how they affect your hair, and what factors influence damage can help you make a more informed decision before booking your appointment.
By choosing a skilled stylist, using the right products, and sticking to a thoughtful aftercare routine, you can enjoy beautiful, radiant highlights while preserving your hair’s health and strength. Whether you’re going bold or subtle, highlights can absolutely be a safe and stylish choice—as long as you treat your hair with the care it deserves.
Salon Haze is an award-winning hair salon in Vancouver, Kitsilano area. We are specialists in colour and style. If you are considering a new colour or style for your hair, contact us, and we’ll talk you through all the options to ensure your choice of colour reflects your personality and complexion.
Call today for a free consultation with one of our stylists. We have the best hairdressers and the best hair colourists in Vancouver. Call now at 604-620-9986 or email us at service@salonhaze.com.