Highlighting can give your hair added dimension and make you look more vibrant and youthful. When done incorrectly it can be a disaster. Before taking the step of highlighting your hair, it’s important to be aware of all the options available to you as well as what will flatter your hair and complexion. Unfortunately, many women jump into coloring or highlighting their hair without doing their research which results in less than pleasing final results. Here are some of the mistakes women make when highlighting their hair:
Hair highlighting mistakes: Going too light
Highlighting is meant to enhance your natural hair shade, not completely change the color. Highlighted hair looks best when subtle gradations of color are skillfully woven into your hair to add depth and dimension. If you have dark brown hair, it’s not going to be flattering to add platinum blonde highlights. The contrast is just too great. With highlighting, subtle is often better.
Hair highlighting mistakes: Going too chunky
Big chunky highlights are a difficult look to carry off and almost always look unnatural. While this may be an interesting style for a special occasion, will you want to wear it on a daily basis to the office? Consider whether you might be happier with a more natural look particularly if you work in a conservative environment. Definitely stay away from chunks of colors not found in nature such as bright orange or purple. This look is best saved for Halloween.
Hair highlighting mistakes: Choosing the wrong color
You’ll be happier with your highlighting if you choose a color that compliments your complexion. In general colors with beige or ash undertones aren’t flattering to most skin tones. Try adding warmer shades of highlights with subtle hints of gold to look more youthful and less artificial. Before making a big change, it’s best to consult with a color specialist to determine which shades will work best with your particular skin tone.
Hair highlighting mistakes: Allowing roots to show
Nothing is more unflattering than highlighted hair with two inches of dark roots. If you choose highlights that are more than two to three shades lighter than your natural hair, upkeep may be a problem. Do you really want to highlight your hair every six weeks? If you keep your highlights close in shade to your natural hair color, you’ll require less upkeep and your roots won’t be as obvious.
Hair highlighting mistakes: Doing it yourself
Highlighting can be a tricky proposition since you’re adding various gradations of color. Unless you’re a hairdresser, you’re probably best getting your highlighting done by a professional. A hairdresser can help you choose the shades that are right for your skin and hair. Although it may be more expensive to use the services of a hair salon, it can be even more costly trying to correct a poorly done highlighting job.
If you’re considering hair highlighting, consider seeking the advice of a licensed hair color specialist. It could save you a lot of money and headaches.
