Many times we get things done without really knowing what they are. I would like to introduce you to highlights in a way that you will understand why, when, and how you should get them done.

There are three main reasons to get highlights: 1) to control red or orange undertones in dark brown to light brown hair, especially when you want to go lighter and be in the golden family. 2) to get a brighter and softer look around your face. 3) to get a chic, fun and cool look.

There are so many colors, tones and shades of highlights:

For blondes there are colors that go from yellow undertones to white/ash undertones, for example, honey, butter, beige and platinum.

For brunettes there are colors that go from orange undertones to yellow undertones, for example, dark caramel, light caramel, chestnut and auburn.

For redheads there are colors that go from violet undertones to yellow undertones, for example, wine, eggplant, auburn, marigold, honey, light caramel, and strawberry blond.

There are different looks:

Chunky highlights for long hair are OUT. For short hair they are still IN, depending on the haircut and style.

Pieces highlights are thin than rather than chunky. Pieces looks good on short hair with layers, medium length with layers, and long hair with layers; the layers are the key. Pieces add dimension and contrast to the hair. It is very important to know how to style your hair with these highlights.

Natural or blended highlights are very fine; they look like sun-kisses. These types of highlights are for customers that like very natural looks.

How often you should do it?

I recommend touching up every 10 to 14 weeks. If you do it too soon, your hair will become too dry, porous and broken. If you leave a long time in-between, there is a chance that your colorist won’t be able to pick up the same pieces, and the original highlights will get lost.

Every time you get highlights, ask for a reconstructive or protein treatment to balance the pH of the hair and prevent damage and frizz. The hair texture of you hair is going to take from 2 to 4 weeks to recover and go back to its normal shape. Remember that this time is very critical; the way you take care of your hair now is going to affect the condition of it later.

Perform moisturizing treatments at home twice a week with products rich in protein, Vitamin E, enzymes, and aloe. Use products like Logics DNA and Phyto Organics. Do not over-blow, use a dry/curling iron, or flat-iron your hair. Do cool rinse after shampoo. Do not use products that have a lot alcohol in them. Give your hair time to heal.