Comment Faire Ces Meche A La Maison

Okay, picture this: I'm standing in my bathroom, armed with a box of hair dye that promised me sunkissed highlights and a whole lot of confidence. Flash forward two hours, and I looked less like a California surfer and more like a… well, let’s just say it involved streaks of orange that would make even a traffic cone blush. That, my friends, is when I decided I needed to learn how to do highlights at home properly. No more box dye roulette! (Seriously, don’t play that game. Your hair will thank you.)

So, you want to embrace your inner colorist and create gorgeous highlights in the comfort of your own home? Good for you! It's totally doable. It just takes a little know-how, some patience, and a willingness to laugh at yourself if things don't go perfectly according to plan (because, let's be real, sometimes they won't). We're going to break down the process of getting those salon-worthy highlights without the salon price tag.

Choosing Your Highlight Method

First things first: which method are you going to use? There are a few main contenders in the DIY highlight arena.

Foil Highlights: This is the classic, and probably what you picture when you think "highlights." It gives you the most control over placement and brightness. It's also the most time-consuming, but in my humble opinion, well worth it. Pro tip: invest in some good quality foil! The cheap stuff tears too easily and will drive you bonkers.

Cap Highlights: Remember those crazy plastic caps with all the little holes from the 90s? They're still around! This method involves pulling strands of hair through the holes with a hook. It’s a bit more uniform, but can be tricky to get the right amount of hair pulled through.

Balayage/Hair Painting: This is a more freehand technique, perfect for a more natural, blended look. It requires a steady hand and a good eye, but it can be incredibly rewarding. You're essentially painting the highlights onto your hair. (Don’t start with this one, really).

Gather Your Supplies

Now, let's talk about the tools of the trade. You’ll need:

• Highlight Kit or Bleach & Developer: Choose a kit or developer volume suitable for your hair type and desired level of lightness. Read the instructions carefully. Seriously. Don't skip this step.
• Gloves: Unless you want Smurf-colored hands, wear gloves.
• Applicator Brush: For applying the bleach or dye.
• Mixing Bowl: For mixing your product. (Don't use your cereal bowl, please).
• Foil (if doing foil highlights): Pre-cut foil squares are super convenient.
• Hair Clips: To section off your hair.
• Towel: An old towel you don't mind staining.
• Timer: Crucial for preventing hair disaster.
• Toner (optional): To neutralize any unwanted brassiness. We'll talk about this later.

The Highlighting Process (Foil Method)

Okay, deep breaths. This is where the magic happens. We're going to focus on the foil method because it is more widespread.

1. Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. Think about where you want your highlights to be.
2. Mix Your Product: Follow the instructions on your highlight kit or bleach/developer. Mix thoroughly.
3. Apply the Bleach: Taking small sections, apply the bleach to the strands you want highlighted, starting a bit away from the roots (about half an inch). Be precise!
4. Wrap in Foil: Fold the foil around the highlighted section.
5. Repeat: Continue highlighting and foiling until you've achieved your desired look.
6. Wait: Set your timer and wait for the recommended time. Don't leave it on longer than recommended! Keep an eagle eye on the color.
7. Rinse: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water.
8. Shampoo & Condition: Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

Toning (If Needed)

If your highlights are looking a little too yellow or orange, a toner can be your best friend. Toner neutralizes unwanted tones, giving you a more polished and professional-looking result. Apply according to the product instructions. Seriously, read the instructions.

Important Tips & Tricks

• Strand Test: Before you commit, do a strand test on a hidden section of your hair to see how it reacts to the bleach. This can save you from major regret.
• Start Small: It's easier to add more highlights than to fix over-highlighted hair.
• Don't Go Too Light Too Fast: Multiple sessions are better than frying your hair in one go. Patience, young grasshopper.
• Moisturize: Bleach can be drying. Use a deep conditioner regularly.

Doing highlights at home can be a bit of a learning curve, but it's definitely achievable. And hey, even if it doesn't turn out perfectly the first time, you can always learn from your mistakes. (And maybe wear a hat for a few days. We've all been there). Now go forth and create some beautiful highlights!