You’ve probably heard of highlights, which are the trendy hair color trend that involves a lightening or darkening of your natural hair color to either make it brighter or more dramatic. However, there is also underlayer hair color, which is a slightly different technique and one that you might not be familiar with. While it could be tempting to try out underlayer shade right away, keep in mind that this type of color takes more time than highlights.
What is an Underlayer?
Most people assume that all color on the hair is a result of highlights when, in fact, most color is formed as an underlayer. This layer of hair lies beneath the main blonde or darker color and can range from light brown to black. Underlayer hair colors are natural and can often be more subtle than highlights, so they are a good choice if you want to wear your hair in its natural state.
How do you Color Hair with an Underlayer?
The Difference Between Underlayer Hair Color And Highlights
If you are looking to color your hair with an underlayer, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Underlayer hair color will not be as intense as highlights, and it will also not last as long.
Underlayer hair coloring is a great option if you want something light and temporary. You can use a lightener to get the desired blonde or silver underlayer, then color your hair the way you normally would. Your highlights will last up to four weeks, but your underlayer will only last about two.
If you are looking for longer-lasting results, highlights are the way to go. Underlayer hair coloring will not give you the depth and dimension that highlights will. If you want to go darker than your natural hair color, highlights are the best way to go. Underlayer hair coloring will only darken your existing hair color, so if you want a darker shade, you’ll need to dye your hair again.
If you are like most women, you probably have a few different hair colors in your hair arsenal. Whether it’s a natural light brown, auburn, auburn highlights, or darker browns with caramel highlights, there is sure to be a color that works for you. But what about when you want to go completely different?
Adding an underlayer can give you some amazing new hair colors that look totally different from your original hair color. Think of it like layering your own personal dye job on top of your existing hair color. With underlayer hair coloring, you get the benefits of adding highlights without having to commit to a whole new color scheme.
To get started with underlayer hair coloring, start by getting your hair trimmed to the same length all around. Once your hair is trimmed, divide it into four sections and condition each section separately. Next, choose the color that you would like to add as an underlayer to your current hair color. Depending on the type of dye you are using, this could be as simple as applying shampoo and conditioner before applying the dye and leaving it in for 30 minutes or as long as two hours.
The Difference Between Underlayer Hair Color And Highlights
There is a big difference between underlayer hair color and highlights. Underlayer hair color is just the natural hair color that is below the surface of the skin. Highlights are a style or treatment where hair is lightened to a brighter, more colorful hue.
Underlayer hair color looks more natural since it’s closer to the natural color of the hair. Highlights can look fake and artificial since they are often created using chemicals and heat. Underlayer hair color usually takes longer to fade, so it can last longer in styles such as braids or updos. Highlights will eventually fade, but they may take a bit longer to do so because they are treated with chemicals and heat.
How to Use Half and Half for a Dramatic Hair Colour Change
If you’re looking to change up your hair color but don’t want to go all-in with dye, consider using half and half. This simple technique will give you the look of highlights without the harsh chemicals. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by shampooing your hair two times with a mild shampoo.
- Condition your hair with a light conditioner.
- Divide your hair into two sections, working one section at a time. Apply a few drops of half and half to each section, then cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap. Leave the mixture on for 30 minutes to an hour, until the color has fully penetrated the hair.
- Rinse off the half and half mixture thoroughly, then towel dry your hair. Use any remaining color to dye the rest of your hair as desired.
Tips to Manage Ugly Splotches on Your Underlayer Color
If you’ve ever had a bad hair day, you know that underlayer color can be pretty frustrating. Ugly splotches can show up in any color, but they’re especially common in light shades like blonde, yellow, and sun- kissed skin. Here are some tips to help manage them:
- Apply a light foundation to cover the splotches. This will help blend in the color and make your hair look smoother.
- Use a light-colored hairbrush to brush through your hair. This will help distribute the foundation evenly and minimize the appearance of splotches.
- Blow-dry your hair using a low heat setting. This will reduce frizz and give your hair a sleek, straight appearance.
- Use a styling product to add volume or hold if needed. This will help disguise the splotches and give you a more polished look.
Alternatives to the Hair Coloring Process
There are a few different ways to get your hair color done without using harsh chemicals. Here are four of the most popular:
- Permanent hair coloring
- Hair extensions
- Hair dyeing
- Blonde highlights
Conclusion
If you’re looking to add some life and vibrancy to your hair color, underlayer highlights may be the way to go. Underlayer highlights are a great way to mix up your look and give your hair a little more depth without having to undergo full-on coloring or bleaching. They also require less time in the hair salon (usually just a quick wash and style), so they’re perfect for busy women on the go. If you’re interested in trying out underlayer highlights, be sure to ask your stylist about the best way to achieve them.
