Foil highlights are a popular hair coloring technique that can add dimension and brightness to your hair. They are created by applying bleach or hair color to small sections of hair that are wrapped in foil. The foil helps to create a controlled environment that allows the bleach or hair color to lift the hair’s natural pigment. This results in a highlighted effect that can be subtle or dramatic, depending on the desired look.
Foil highlights can be used on all hair types and colors. However, they are particularly well-suited for people with dark hair who want to add some lightness and brightness. Foil highlights can also be used to create a variety of looks, from subtle sun-kissed highlights to bold and dramatic streaks. If you are considering getting foil highlights, be sure to consult with a professional hairstylist to discuss your desired look and to determine if foil highlights are the right choice for you.
There are a few things you can do to prepare for your foil highlight appointment. First, be sure to wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. This will help the bleach or hair color to adhere to your hair more evenly. Second, avoid using any styling products on the day of your appointment. These products can interfere with the highlighting process and result in uneven results. Finally, be sure to bring a picture of your desired look to your appointment so that your hairstylist can see what you are trying to achieve.
Choosing the Right Hair Lightener
1. Determine Your Hair Type and Color
Perfect foil highlights begin with choosing the right hair lightener for your specific hair type and color. Consider the following factors:
– Bleaching virgin hair requires a stronger lightener, while chemically treated hair may need a gentler formula.
– The ideal lightener level differs based on your desired result. For subtle highlights, opt for a 20-volume developer. For a more dramatic effect, use a 30-volume developer.
– Consult a color chart to determine the appropriate lightener level for your hair color. For instance, a 20-volume developer can lift natural hair by one to two levels, while a 30-volume developer can lighten by three to four levels.
2. Choose a High-Quality Lightener
Invest in a professional-grade hair lightener from a reputable brand. These products typically contain gentle ingredients that minimize hair damage and provide even lightening.
3. Consider the Strength of the Lightener
The strength of the lightener is determined by its volume level. Volume levels range from 10 to 40, with higher volumes indicating stronger lightening power. For most home-foiling applications, a 20- to 30-volume developer is recommended.
| Developer Volume | Lightening Results |
|---|---|
| 10 | Softens brassy tones |
| 20 | Lifts hair color by one to two levels |
| 30 | Lifts hair color by three to four levels |
| 40 | Reserved for professional use, can damage hair |
Preparing Your Hair for Foiling
Before you start foiling your hair, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Wash Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or dirt. This will help the bleach penetrate the hair shaft more evenly, resulting in more consistent highlights.
2. Determining Your Base Level and Goals
Determine your natural hair level and the desired level of highlights you want to achieve. This will help you determine the volume of bleach needed and the processing time. Consider factors such as hair porosity, thickness, and previous chemical treatments.
| Natural Hair Level | Desired Highlight Level | Bleach Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Black) | Level 9 (Blonde) | 30 volume |
| Level 5 (Light Brown) | Level 8 (Light Blonde) | 20 volume |
| Level 8 (Dark Blonde) | Level 10 (Very Light Blonde) | 10 volume |
3. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections using hair clips or hair ties. This will make it easier to apply the foils and control the placement of the highlights.
4. Apply Pre-Lightener or Bleach
Apply the pre-lightener or bleach to the hair sections according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will lift the natural pigment of the hair, creating a base for the highlights.
5. Wrap Your Hair in Foils
Wrap the bleached hair sections in aluminum foils, ensuring that the hair is evenly distributed within the foil. This will prevent the bleach from spreading to adjacent areas and create defined highlights.
6. Process the Hair
Process the hair for the recommended time, depending on the desired level of lift and the hair’s condition. Monitor the hair regularly to avoid over-processing, which can cause damage.
7. Rinse and Tone
Once the hair has reached the desired level of lift, rinse it thoroughly with cool water to remove the bleach. Apply a toner to neutralize any unwanted brassiness and enhance the desired highlight shade.
Sectioning Your Hair for Foils
Before you start applying foil highlights, it’s essential to section your hair properly. This will ensure that you achieve an even distribution of color and avoid any unevenness. Here’s a detailed guide on how to section your hair for foils:
Choose the Right Sectioning Pattern
The sectioning pattern you choose will depend on the desired look you’re trying to achieve. For a natural-looking highlight, opt for a scattered sectioning pattern where foils are placed randomly. For a more dramatic effect, use a grid-like sectioning pattern where foils are placed in a regular pattern.
Part and Divide Hair into Sections
Start by creating a middle part and then divide the hair into four equal sections: left front, right front, left back, and right back. Secure each section with a hair clip or elastic band.
Create Subsections Within Each Section
Within each of the four main sections, divide the hair into smaller subsections. The size of these subsections will determine the thickness of your highlights. For thinner highlights, create smaller subsections. For thicker highlights, create larger subsections.
To create the subsections, use a rattail comb to create a horizontal part near the root area. Then, use vertical parts to divide the section into smaller pieces. Secure each subsection with a hair clip or elastic band.
| Section | Subsections |
|---|---|
| Left Front | 3-5 subsections |
| Right Front | 3-5 subsections |
| Left Back | 4-6 subsections |
| Right Back | 4-6 subsections |
Applying the Hair Lightener to the Foils
The next step after sectioning your hair is to apply the hair lightener to the strands tucked into the foils. This process requires precision and care to ensure you achieve the desired results.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying the lightener:
4. Apply Lightener to the Hair
With the foil secured, use a brush to apply the hair lightener evenly and generously to the hair strand. Ensure that the lightener covers the full length of the hair, avoiding the roots by about a quarter inch. If you’re aiming for a more subtle highlight, apply a thinner layer of the lightener.
For a detailed understanding, refer to the table below:
| Highlight Intensity | Lightener Application |
|---|---|
| Subtle Highlights | Apply a thin layer of hair lightener. |
| Medium Highlights | Apply a moderate amount of hair lightener. |
| Bold Highlights | Apply hair lightener generously, ensuring it covers the full length of the hair strand. |
Timing the Foiling Process
Lift Timing
The lift timing refers to the duration the bleach is left on the hair. It largely depends on the desired level of lift and the hair’s condition. Generally, it ranges from 15 to 45 minutes, with a higher lift requiring a longer duration.
Developer Strength
The strength of the developer, usually ranging from 10 to 40 volume, influences the lifting speed. A higher volume developer results in a faster lift, while a lower volume developer provides a gentler lift with less risk of damage.
Hair Color and Texture
The hair’s natural color and texture also affect the lift timing. Darker hair requires a longer lift time, while lighter hair lifts faster. Coarse hair requires more time to lift than fine hair.
Foil Thickness
The thickness of the foil wrap around the hair strands impacts the lift speed. Thinner foils allow for more even heat distribution, resulting in a faster lift. Thicker foils insulate the hair, slowing down the lift.
Tone and Neutralization
Once the desired lift has been achieved, a toner may be applied to neutralize any warmth or brassiness in the hair. The timing of the toner depends on the type of toner used and the desired results.
| Factor | Impact on Lift Timing |
|---|---|
| Desired Lift Level | Higher lift = longer timing |
| Developer Strength | Higher volume = faster lift |
| Hair Color & Texture | Darker, coarser hair = longer timing |
| Foil Thickness | Thinner foils = faster lift |
| Tone/Neutralization | Timing varies depending on toner type and desired results |
Washing Out the Hair Lightener
Once the processing time is up, it is time to wash out the hair lightener. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure you remove the lightener effectively while preserving the integrity of your hair:
1. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your hair with cool or lukewarm water until the water runs clear. This will remove most of the lightener from your hair.
2. Shampoo
Apply a clarifying shampoo to your hair and gently massage it in. This will help remove any remaining lightener and prepare your hair for the toner or conditioning treatment.
3. Condition
After shampooing, apply a deep conditioner to your hair. Leave it in for the recommended amount of time to nourish and hydrate your hair after the lightening process.
4. Towel Dry
Gently towel dry your hair to remove excess water. Do not rub or wring your hair, as this can cause breakage.
5. Apply Toner or Color Corrector (Optional)
If you want to adjust the tone or correct any unwanted hues in your hair, apply a toner or color corrector. Follow the instructions carefully and leave it on for the recommended amount of time.
6. Check for Evenness
After applying the toner or color corrector, rinse your hair thoroughly and check for evenness. If there are any areas that are not evenly lightened, you can apply more lightener to those areas and process for a shorter amount of time.
| Lightening Level | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Level 1-2 (Darkest) | 45-60 minutes |
| Level 3-4 (Medium) | 30-45 minutes |
| Level 5-6 (Light) | 15-30 minutes |
Note: Processing times may vary depending on hair type, texture, and previous chemical treatments. Always follow the instructions provided by your hair care professional or the product manufacturer.
Toning and Conditioning the Hair
After the hair has been foiled, it’s important to tone and condition it to achieve the desired look and protect the hair from damage.
Toning
Toning is the process of applying a toner to the hair to adjust its color and enhance the highlights. Toner can be used to:
- Remove unwanted yellow or orange tones
- Add warmth or coolness to the hair
- Even out the color of the highlights
Conditioning
Conditioning is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of the hair after highlighting. Conditioner helps to:
- Moisturize the hair
- Repair damage caused by highlighting
- Prevent breakage
Choosing the Right Conditioner
When choosing a conditioner for highlighted hair, it’s important to select one that is specifically designed for color-treated hair. These conditioners typically contain ingredients that help to protect the color and prevent fading.
How to Condition Highlighted Hair
After highlighting, apply conditioner to the hair according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Leave it in for the recommended amount of time, then rinse thoroughly. For optimal results, condition the hair every 1-2 weeks.
Additional Tips for Toning and Conditioning Highlighted Hair
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a toner that is designed for your hair color | This will help to achieve the desired results and minimize damage. |
| Condition the hair regularly | This will help to keep the hair healthy and prevent breakage. |
| Avoid over-washing the hair | Washing the hair too often can strip away natural oils and cause the color to fade. |
| Use heat protectant products | This will help to protect the hair from damage caused by heat styling. |
| Get regular trims | This will help to remove split ends and keep the hair healthy. |
Styling Foiled Highlights
Foiled highlights can be a great way to add dimension and style to your hair. Here are a few tips for styling your foiled highlights:
Use a wide-tooth comb
When brushing your hair, use a wide-tooth comb to avoid snagging or damaging your highlights.
Apply a heat protectant
Before using any heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant to your hair to help protect it from damage.
Use a low heat setting
When using heat styling tools, use a low heat setting to avoid damaging your highlights.
Avoid over-brushing
Over-brushing your hair can cause your highlights to look frizzy.
Use a shine spray
To add shine to your foiled highlights, use a shine spray.
Get regular trims
To keep your foiled highlights looking their best, get regular trims to remove any split ends.
Use a toning shampoo
To keep your foiled highlights from turning brassy, use a toning shampoo.
Protect your hair from the sun
To protect your foiled highlights from the sun’s harmful UV rays, wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Wide-tooth comb | Gentle on your hair and prevents snagging |
| Heat protectant | Protects your hair from damage caused by heat styling |
| Shine spray | Adds shine and radiance to your foiled highlights |
| Toning shampoo | Keeps your highlights from turning brassy |
| UV protectant spray | Protects your hair from the sun’s harmful UV rays |
Maintaining Foiled Highlights
Maintaining the vibrancy and health of your foiled highlights is essential for a long-lasting, beautiful look. Here are some tips to help you keep your highlights looking their best:
Protect from Heat
Heat styling tools can damage the hair and cause the highlights to fade. Use heat protectant spray before blowouts, curling wands, and flat irons.
Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Harsh shampoos and conditioners can strip away the color of your highlights. Opt for color-safe products designed to protect and maintain hair color.
Wash Less Frequently
Washing your hair too often can also cause the highlights to fade. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days or more if possible.
Avoid Chlorine and UV Exposure
Chlorine in swimming pools and UV rays from the sun can contribute to hair damage and highlight fading. Wear a swim cap when swimming and protect your hair with a hat or UV spray when spending time in the sun.
Get Regular Trims
Regular trims remove split ends and damaged hair, which can help keep your highlights looking fresh and healthy.
Use a Toning Shampoo
Toning shampoos can help neutralize brassy or unwanted tones in your highlights. Use these shampoos sparingly, as they can be drying.
Apply a Deep Conditioner
Deep conditioning treatments can help restore moisture and nourish the hair, which can benefit both your natural hair color and highlights.
Use a Leave-In Conditioner
Leave-in conditioners help detangle, protect, and hydrate your hair. Look for products specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Consider Refreshing Your Highlights
Over time, highlights can grow out and fade. To maintain a consistent look, consider refreshing your highlights every 8-12 weeks.
Troubleshooting Foil Highlights
1. Splotchy or uneven color
Uneven color can be caused by several factors, including using too much bleach, leaving the bleach on for too long, or not properly saturating the hair with bleach. To avoid this, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use a developer that is appropriate for your hair type.
2. Brassy or yellow tones
Brassiness or yellow tones can be caused by not using enough toner or by using a toner that is not strong enough. To avoid this, make sure to use a toner that is specifically designed for blonde hair and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
3. Dry or damaged hair
Foil highlights can damage hair if they are not done properly. To avoid this, make sure to use a deep conditioning treatment after you have had your highlights done, and to use a heat protectant spray before you style your hair.
4. Hair breakage
Hair breakage can be caused by using too much bleach or by leaving the bleach on for too long. To avoid this, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to use a developer that is appropriate for your hair type.
5. Scalp irritation
Scalp irritation can be caused by the bleach or the toner coming into contact with the scalp. To avoid this, make sure to apply a petroleum jelly or other barrier cream to your scalp before you have your highlights done.
6. Foil not holding
Foil not holding can be caused by using too much foil or by not crimping the foil properly. To avoid this, make sure to use just enough foil to cover the section of hair you are highlighting and to crimp the foil tightly.
7. Blotchy or uneven color and Over-toning
Over-toning hair refers to when a toner that is too strong for the hair is used, resulting in a dull or unnatural-looking color. To avoid over-toning, always use a toner that is appropriate for your hair type and desired results.
8. Electric blue/Green
Electric blue/Green undertone in a blonde highlights is a indication of insufficient bleach process. To correct this, bleach hair again to desired lift level and re-tone to achieve the desired result.
9. Lightening Too Quickly
Lightening hair too quickly can lead to brassiness, damage, and breakage. To prevent this, use a low-volume developer and process hair gradually, allowing it to lift 2-3 levels at a time. Avoid using high-volume developers or leaving bleach on for extended periods.
10. Foils Ripping and Tearing
Ripped or torn foils can result in uneven lightening and color bleeding. To prevent this, use high-quality foils that are thick enough to withstand the bleach and crimping process. Fold foils neatly around the hair to ensure they remain secure throughout the processing time.
How to Foil Highlights
Foil highlights are a great way to add some extra dimension and brightness to your hair. They’re also a relatively low-maintenance option, as they don’t require as much upkeep as other types of highlights. If you’re thinking about getting foil highlights, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it yourself.
Step 1: Gather your supplies. You’ll need the following:
- Foil
- Highlighting kit
- Developer
- Toner (optional)
- Gloves
- Comb
- Clips
Step 2: Prepare your hair. Start by washing and drying your hair. Then, section your hair into four parts: top, bottom, left, and right. Secure each section with a clip.
Step 3: Apply the highlighting kit. Follow the instructions on the highlighting kit to apply the bleach to your hair. Be sure to apply the bleach evenly and avoid getting it on your scalp.
Step 4: Wrap your hair in foil. Once you’ve applied the bleach to your hair, wrap it in foil. Start by folding the foil in half lengthwise. Then, place the foil under a section of hair and fold it over the hair, pressing down on the edges to seal it.
Step 5: Process the bleach. Allow the bleach to process for the amount of time specified on the highlighting kit. This will vary depending on the strength of the bleach and the desired level of lightening.
Step 6: Rinse out the bleach. Once the bleach has processed, rinse it out of your hair with cool water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all of the bleach.
Step 7: Apply toner (optional). If you want to tone your highlights, apply the toner according to the instructions on the package.
Step 8: Style your hair. Once your highlights are dry, style your hair as usual.
People Also Ask About How to Foil Highlights
How long do foil highlights last?
Foil highlights can last for several months, depending on how often you wash your hair and how quickly your hair grows.
Can I do foil highlights at home?
Yes, you can do foil highlights at home, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your hair.
How much does it cost to get foil highlights?
The cost of foil highlights will vary depending on the salon you go to and the length and thickness of your hair.
What are the benefits of foil highlights?
Foil highlights can add dimension and brightness to your hair, and they can also help to cover up gray hair.
What are the drawbacks of foil highlights?
Foil highlights can be time-consuming and expensive, and they can also damage your hair if they’re not done correctly.
