How to cover gray hair with highlights

Gray hair is a natural part of the aging process, but it can be unsettling for some. If you’re not ready to embrace your grays just yet, highlights can be a great way to camouflage them while adding dimension and color to your hair. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to gray hair with highlights.

1. Choose the right color: When selecting a highlight color, it’s important to consider your natural hair color. For those with lighter hair, blonde highlights may be suitable, while brunettes may opt for caramel or honey tones. For darker hair, auburn or chestnut highlights can work well. The goal is to choose a color that complements your natural hair and skin tone.

2. Consult a professional: While DIY hair highlighting kits are available, it’s recommended to consult a professional colorist for the best results. They can assess your hair type, color, and provide expert advice on the most flattering highlights to cover your gray hair effectively.

3. Placement is key: Gray hair tends to be coarser and more resistant to color, so strategic placement of highlights is crucial. Highlights should be applied around the face, along the parting, and wherever your grays are most noticeable. This technique helps blend the gray hair seamlessly with the rest of your hair, creating a natural look.

4. Opt for a gradual transition: If you’re not ready for all-over highlights, a gradual transition can be a gentler approach. Ask your colorist to start with a few subtle highlights and gradually increase the intensity over time. This method allows you to get accustomed to the change while minimizing drastic differences in color.

5. Consider lowlights: In addition to highlights, lowlights can also help mask gray hair effectively. Lowlights are darker strands of hair that are added to create depth and dimension. They can be particularly useful for individuals with a larger percentage of gray hair, as they provide a contrast against the lighter highlights.

6. Maintain your highlights: After getting your highlights, it’s essential to take proper care of them to ensure longevity. Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for highlighted hair. These products will help to keep the color vibrant and prevent fading. Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will also be necessary to maintain the desired look.

7. Embrace gray blending techniques: If traditional highlights are not your preference, gray blending techniques, such as balayage or ombre, can also provide excellent coverage. Balayage involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair, creating a natural and sun-kissed effect. Ombre, on the other hand, involves transitioning from a darker shade at the roots to a lighter shade towards the ends.

8. Hydrate and protect your hair: Highlighting can cause some damage to your hair, so it’s crucial to keep it hydrated and protected. Use deep conditioning treatments regularly to nourish your hair and prevent dryness or breakage. Additionally, protect your hair from heat styling and excessive sun exposure by using heat protectant sprays and wearing a hat when necessary.

In conclusion, covering gray hair with highlights can be a fantastic way to add color and dimension to your hair while minimizing the appearance of grays. Remember to consult a professional colorist, choose the right color, strategically place the highlights, and maintain them properly for long-lasting and natural-looking results. With these steps, you can confidently embrace a youthful and vibrant look.