There are so many beauty movements that are constantly developing. With new hair color trends changing as often as the menu at Starbucks, chatting with your stylist is the best way to determine what steps to take when it comes to your hair. Thinking about bangs? Switching up your base shade? Your stylist will have the insight to create a flawless style that is ahead of the trend! Whether you have a plan or are still up in the air about your next appointment it is important to learn about each process so you can make an informed decision. To ease the transition we’re giving you an inside look at the differences between highlights and a single process. This will help you not only get what you want in the salon, but also improve your routine!
Where To Begin
During the initial consult, be sure to trace through your hair history. Bring up any changes you've made — like getting a Keratin Treatment or using a flat iron every day — you stylist needs to know what's going on underneath the surface. Why is this important? Due to hair type and condition, if you have recently gotten a Keratin Treatment, they will change their approach - like forgoing heat with your highlights or advising against certain processes. The more upfront and honest you are with them, the better the end result!
Next Up — Your Routine
Before heading in for your appointment, think not only about your daily lifestyle, but the time and budget you have to spend on services. Single process color and highlights are services that need to be kept up often. On average, clients should get a single process hair color every 4-5 weeks. When it comes to highlights, depending on the placement of any level of lift, the upkeep can vary from 6 weeks to 6 months!
Single Process
Ideal for clients looking to cover grays or change their base shade. If you have a great amount of gray that you can’t stand to see, you’ll need to start this routine… and keep it! The key to single process hair color is consistency. Due to length and the process - if you aren’t regular about visiting the salon this will lead to issues with banding and uneven color. A single process is also a great service for clients who are looking for a drastic change and an all over even color.
Highlights
The great thing about highlights are the different techniques that can be utilized — from traditional foil highlights to balayage, foilyage, teasylights or babylights. The two main factors when deciding between them are upkeep as well as the overall style. With more traditional foils it is easy to get a blended look and it can also create lighter results. With balayage or teasylights, placement is much more diffuse. They can be used to create a more beachy result with the dimension with a low-maintenance finish. Choose highlights if you want a more multi-dimensional style and if you can commit to taking care of the health of your hair. While you won't need to touch up as often, a gloss or toning shampoo is usually necessary for the interim.
For more updates, product releases and more from Matrix be sure to sign up for our newsletter HERE!
