Transforming your hair with highlights can refresh your look, add dimension, and enhance your natural beauty. However, choosing the right highlight kit can be daunting with the plethora of options available. How to find the right one? First, assess your hair type and color, then define your goals, consider the application method you prefer, and…purchase the highlight kit that fits you! In this article, we want to chat about it in more detail – we invite you to read on!
Crucial Steps Before Choosing Your Highlight Kit
Before diving into the myriad of highlight kit options, take a moment to assess your hair’s natural color and type. Your hair’s condition, color, and texture play significant roles in how the highlighting process will turn out. For instance, thicker, darker hair may require a stronger developer to achieve noticeable highlights, whereas lighter or finer hair may need a gentler formulation to avoid damage.
Also, define your goals. What look are you aiming for? Subtle sun-kissed strands or bold, statement highlights can influence the type of kit you choose. Some kits are designed for specific techniques, like balayage or foiling, and contain tools tailored to those methods. Knowing your desired outcome will help narrow down your options.
Choosing the Best Highlight Kit for Your Hair
So, what do you need to look into when selecting the perfect highlight kit? Let’s go over the most important factors that you should pay attention to.
Quality of Ingredients
The health of your hair post-highlighting largely depends on the quality of the ingredients in the kit. Look for kits that boast nourishing components, such as keratin, argan oil, or other hair-strengthening additives, to minimize damage during the lightening process.
Ease of Application
If you’re new to highlighting your hair at home, consider kits with user-friendly tools and clear, detailed instructions. Some kits include innovative applicators, like easy-to-use brushes or combs, which can simplify the application process and help you achieve more professional-looking results.
Toning Options
Achieving the perfect highlight shade doesn’t stop at lightening; toning is crucial for customizing the final color. Pick a kit that includes a toner or offers a toning step to eliminate brassy or unwanted yellow tones, ensuring your highlights look fresh and vibrant.
Highlight Kit vs. Color Bar
When it comes to at-home hair coloring, two popular options are highlight kits and color bars. Each offers a unique approach to achieving salon-quality hair color from the comfort of your home, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed decision on which is best for your hair goals.
Highlight kits are designed for those looking to add dimension and lightness to their hair without a full color change. These kits typically include a bleaching agent, a toner, a brush or applicator, and sometimes a highlighting cap or foils for precise application. The main advantage of highlight kits is the ability to customize the placement and intensity of the highlights, allowing for a more natural or dramatic look depending on your preference. However, using these kits requires a bit of skill and patience, as improper application can lead to uneven or brassy tones.
On the other hand, color bars offer a more straightforward approach to hair coloring. They are essentially semi-permanent color deposited directly onto the hair, usually without the need for mixing or using developer. Color bars are ideal for those looking to enhance their natural color, cover grays, or experiment with a new shade without the commitment of permanent dye. The application process is generally simpler and less time-consuming than with highlight kits, making it a great option for beginners. However, color bars might not provide the same level of dimension or dramatic change that can be achieved with highlights.
Both highlight kits and color bars have their place in at-home hair coloring. Your choice should depend on your desired outcome, skill level, and how much time you’re willing to invest. Highlight kits are best for those seeking customized, dimensional color, while color bars are suitable for those looking for an easy, low-maintenance way to change their hair color. Regardless of which option you choose, always follow the instructions carefully and consider conducting a patch test to ensure you won’t have an adverse reaction to the product.
The Takeaway
We have explained to you what you have to look into when choosing a highlight kit. Now, you are ready to visit your store, pick the right product, highlight your hair, and enjoy your stunning new look!
