Head highlights are a hair coloring technique where bleach or hair color is applied to strands of hair all over the head. This process lightens sections of hair, creating a brighter, more dimensional look. It's a popular choice for achieving blonde, light brunette, or even subtly lighter shades of dark brown hair. The goal is to evenly distribute highlights throughout the entire head of hair, unlike partial highlights which focus on specific areas.
Types of Head Highlights
While the term "head highlights" generally refers to a full head of highlights, it's important to distinguish it from other highlighting techniques:
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Full Head Highlights: This involves lightening every section of the hair. This creates a more uniform and dramatic change in hair color. As noted by one source, full highlights are often the best route for achieving blonde or lighter brown shades. ([Source: Full head highlights involve applying bleach or hair color to strands all over your head. The goal is to lighten every section of your hair. For those looking to go blonde, light brunette, or dark brown hair, full highlights are usually the way to go.])
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Partial or Half Head Highlights: These techniques focus on highlighting only specific sections of the hair, typically the top or most visible areas. This method is less time-consuming and can be gentler on the hair. ([Source: A full head is when we highlight every single section of your head. However, partial or half head highlights are much more strategic. We don't highlight your…]) A half head highlight often concentrates on the top sections to create a more subtle change. ([Source: Half head highlights are usually only applied to the top, most visible sections. You can choose to lighten the entire top section or pick out a few precise…])
The Process
The process typically involves the use of foils to isolate strands of hair before applying the bleach or color. The specific techniques and placement of foils can vary depending on the desired outcome and the stylist's expertise. ([Source: This content isn't available. #fullheadhighlights #fullhaircolor…]) For example, some stylists may use a full foil technique to cover the entire head, while others might use a more strategic approach. ([Source: Our expert stylists foil the entire head, including the underside, for a vibrant and…]) Even experienced stylists note that the process becomes faster and more efficient with practice. ([Source: It gets easier and you get faster, even after your 4th or 5th highlight you'll notice the difference in your work.])
Considerations
Before getting full head highlights, consider the time commitment and potential damage to your hair. A consultation with a professional hairstylist is recommended to discuss your desired look and the best approach for your hair type and condition. DIY options exist, but professional application generally yields better results. ([Source: Here's a detailed guide AND video on how to highlight your own hair at home! If you have any questions, please drop them in the comments below.])