How Long Do Highlights Take At The Salon
If you're thinking about getting highlights, one of the questions you might be asking yourself is how long the process will take. Highlighting is a popular hair coloring technique that adds dimension to your hair by lightening certain strands. It's a great way to brighten up your look without going for a full dye job. While it's important to remember that every salon and stylist is different, here's a general timeline to give you an idea of what to expect.
Consultation
Before the highlighting process begins, you'll likely have a consultation with your stylist. This is when you'll discuss the look you're going for, as well as any concerns you might have. Depending on the salon, this might happen ahead of time or on the day of your appointment.
During the consultation, your stylist will examine your hair and determine the right technique to use, as well as which products will work best. They'll also give you an idea of how long the process will take. This is a great time to ask questions and make sure you both have the same understanding of the end result.
Preparation
Once you've agreed on the look and technique, your stylist will prepare your hair for the highlighting process. This might involve washing your hair, combing it out, and sectioning it into smaller parts. Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, this could take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.
Application
The next step is the actual highlighting process. Your stylist will apply the bleach or dye to the selected strands of hair, typically using foils or other tools to help keep the color from bleeding onto the surrounding hair. The amount of time this takes depends on the look you're going for, as well as your hair type and thickness. If you're getting multiple colors, this step could take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours or more.
Processing Time
After the dye or bleach is applied, you'll need to let it sit and process. This involves waiting for the color to develop and lighten the hair to the desired level. Processing time can range from 20 minutes to an hour or more, depending on how light you want the highlights to be.
Rinsing and Styling
Once your stylist is satisfied with the color, they'll rinse the bleach or dye out of your hair. This might involve washing it with shampoo and conditioner, as well as a thorough rinse. After that, they'll style your hair as desired, whether that involves a blowout, curls, or simply letting it air dry. This step typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Conclusion
Overall, the time it takes to get highlights at the salon can vary depending on a number of factors. You can expect to spend anywhere from 2 to 5 hours in the salon, depending on the length and thickness of your hair, as well as the desired look. Keep in mind that this is a general timeline, and your stylist may have a different process. Be sure to discuss timing and expectations with them during your consultation to ensure a great experience.