Underlights are a playful and subtly edgy hair coloring technique that involves dyeing the lower layer of your hair a different color than the top layer. This allows for a pop of color that’s either easily visible or cleverly concealed, depending on how you style your hair. Unlike traditional highlights or balayage, underlights focus on the hair underneath, creating a hidden dimension and adding depth to your overall look. This versatile trend has gained immense popularity, offering a unique way to express your personality without a drastic, all-over change.
Understanding the Underlight Technique
The beauty of underlights lies in their strategic placement. The color is applied to the lower section of your hair, typically starting from the nape of the neck and working upwards. This underlayer can be as thick or thin as you desire, influencing how prominent the color is when your hair is down. The technique requires precision to ensure a clean separation between the top and bottom layers, preventing color bleeding and maintaining the element of surprise.
Think of it as a secret compartment of color waiting to be revealed. Whether you want a bold contrast or a subtle peek, the possibilities are endless. The application usually involves sectioning the hair, applying the chosen color to the underlayer, and allowing it to process before rinsing and styling.
Benefits of Choosing Underlights
Underlights offer a multitude of advantages that make them a desirable option for many. Firstly, they are a low-commitment way to experiment with color. Since the color is hidden, it’s less noticeable and easier to grow out or change if you decide you don’t like it.
Secondly, underlights are relatively low maintenance. Because the color is mostly hidden, root growth is less obvious, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
Thirdly, they are versatile. You can choose a bold, vibrant color for a striking effect or opt for a more subtle, complementary shade for added depth. The visibility of the color can be controlled by your hairstyle – wear your hair down to conceal it, or style it in an updo to showcase the hidden hue.
Finally, underlights can add volume and dimension to your hair, making it appear thicker and more textured. The contrasting color creates an illusion of depth, giving your hair a fuller look.
Ideal Hair Types and Lengths for Underlights
While underlights can work on various hair types and lengths, certain factors can influence the final result. Medium to long hair lengths are generally ideal for showcasing the underlight effect, as they provide enough canvas for the color to be visible when styled in different ways. However, shorter bobs can also benefit from underlights, creating a peek-a-boo effect that adds personality to the style.
Hair thickness can also play a role. Thicker hair can handle bolder underlight colors, as the top layer can effectively conceal the underlying hue. Fine hair may benefit from more subtle color choices and thinner underlight sections to avoid overpowering the overall look.
Textured hair, such as curly or wavy hair, can create a beautiful, blended effect with underlights. The natural movement of the hair allows the undercolor to peek through in a dynamic and eye-catching way.
Choosing the Right Colors for Your Underlights
Selecting the right colors for your underlights is crucial to achieving your desired look. Consider your natural hair color, skin tone, and personal style when making your decision.
For those with darker hair, bold, vibrant colors like electric blue, hot pink, or deep purple can create a striking contrast. Jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue also work well, adding richness and depth to the hair.
If you have lighter hair, pastel shades like lavender, rose gold, or baby blue can create a soft and whimsical effect. Warmer tones like copper, honey blonde, or caramel can also complement lighter hair, adding dimension and warmth.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with unexpected color combinations. Consider using a color wheel to find complementary colors that will create a harmonious and visually appealing contrast. Ultimately, the best color for your underlights is one that you love and that reflects your personality.
Popular Color Combinations
Here are a few popular color combinations that have proven to be stylish and flattering:
- Dark Brown Hair with Caramel Underlights: Adds warmth and dimension for a sun-kissed effect.
- Black Hair with Electric Blue Underlights: Creates a bold and edgy statement.
- Blonde Hair with Rose Gold Underlights: Adds a touch of femininity and shimmer.
- Red Hair with Copper Underlights: Enhances the natural warmth and richness of red hair.
- Brunette Hair with Purple Underlights: Offers a subtle yet sophisticated pop of color.
Considering Your Skin Tone
Your skin tone plays a crucial role in determining which underlight colors will complement your complexion.
For warm skin tones with golden or yellow undertones, warm-toned underlights like copper, gold, or honey blonde can enhance your natural radiance.
For cool skin tones with pink or blue undertones, cool-toned underlights like silver, ash blonde, or pastel shades can create a harmonious and balanced look.
Neutral skin tones can typically pull off a wider range of colors, making it easier to experiment with different options.
The Application Process: DIY vs. Professional
When it comes to applying underlights, you have two main options: doing it yourself at home or going to a professional hairstylist. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.
DIY Underlights:
- Pros: More affordable, convenient, and allows you to control the process.
- Cons: Requires skill and precision, can be messy and time-consuming, and may result in uneven color or damage if not done correctly.
Professional Underlights:
- Pros: Guarantees a professional result, ensures even color distribution, minimizes the risk of damage, and offers expert advice on color selection and maintenance.
- Cons: More expensive and requires scheduling an appointment.
DIY Underlight Tips
If you decide to try DIY underlights, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Gather the necessary supplies: Hair dye, developer, applicator brush, gloves, mixing bowl, clips, and an old towel to protect your clothing.
- Perform a strand test: Apply the dye to a small, hidden section of your hair to check for allergies and to ensure you like the color result.
- Section your hair carefully: Use clips to separate the top layer of your hair from the underlayer. Ensure the sections are clean and even.
- Apply the dye evenly: Use the applicator brush to apply the dye to the underlayer, starting from the roots and working towards the ends.
- Follow the instructions carefully: Adhere to the processing time specified on the dye packaging.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
- Condition your hair: Apply a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and prevent damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
While DIY underlights can be a fun and affordable option, there are certain situations where it’s best to seek professional help:
- If you’re using bleach: Bleaching hair can be damaging if not done correctly. A professional hairstylist can ensure the process is done safely and effectively.
- If you’re aiming for a complex color: Achieving intricate color combinations or pastel shades can be challenging without professional expertise.
- If you have damaged hair: Coloring damaged hair can further exacerbate the problem. A professional hairstylist can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best course of action.
- If you’re unsure about the process: If you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, it’s always best to consult a professional to avoid mistakes and achieve the desired result.
Maintaining Your Underlights
Proper maintenance is essential to keep your underlights looking vibrant and healthy.
Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner to prevent fading. These products are specifically formulated to protect colored hair and prolong the life of your dye.
Avoid washing your hair too frequently. Washing your hair too often can strip away the color and leave it looking dull. Try to wash your hair only when necessary, and use dry shampoo in between washes to absorb excess oil.
Protect your hair from heat. Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons can damage colored hair and cause it to fade. Use a heat protectant spray before styling to minimize damage.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure. The sun can fade colored hair, so it’s important to protect your hair from direct sunlight. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors.
Schedule regular touch-ups. Depending on the color you choose and how quickly your hair grows, you may need to schedule regular touch-ups to maintain the vibrancy of your underlights.
Products to Enhance and Protect Your Underlights
There are a variety of products available that can help enhance and protect your underlights:
- Color-depositing shampoos and conditioners: These products can help refresh your color and add vibrancy in between salon visits.
- Leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners can help moisturize and detangle your hair, preventing breakage and damage.
- Hair masks: Hair masks can provide deep hydration and repair damaged hair, keeping your underlights looking healthy and lustrous.
- Hair oils: Hair oils can add shine and protect your hair from environmental damage.
The Evolution of Underlights: Trends and Variations
Underlights have evolved over time, with various trends and variations emerging. Some popular trends include:
- Rainbow Underlights: A vibrant and playful look featuring a spectrum of colors.
- Hidden Rainbow Underlights: A more subtle take on the rainbow trend, with the colors concealed beneath a natural-looking top layer.
- Pastel Underlights: Soft and whimsical shades like lavender, rose gold, and baby blue.
- Neon Underlights: Bold and eye-catching colors that glow under black lights.
- Chunky Underlights: Thicker sections of color that create a more dramatic effect.
- Ombre Underlights: A gradual transition from a darker root color to a lighter underlight color.
The versatility of underlights allows for endless customization and experimentation. You can adapt the technique to suit your individual style and preferences, creating a look that is both unique and flattering.
Whether you’re looking for a subtle pop of color or a bold statement, underlights offer a fun and versatile way to express yourself through your hair. With proper planning and maintenance, you can enjoy this trendy and customizable hair color technique for months to come.
What exactly are underlights, and how do they differ from other hair coloring techniques?
Underlights are a hair coloring technique where color is applied to the lower layer of hair, hidden beneath the top layers. This creates a peek-a-boo effect, allowing you to reveal or conceal the color depending on how you style your hair. The vibrant hues remain subtly hidden until you choose to show them off, offering a fun and versatile way to experiment with color.
Unlike highlights or balayage, which are applied to the surface layers of hair, underlights are specifically placed underneath. This difference in placement is what creates the unique hidden color effect. While highlights and balayage aim to lighten and add dimension to the overall look, underlights offer a bolder statement that can be customized for a subtle or dramatic reveal.
Who are underlights best suited for?
Underlights are a fantastic option for individuals seeking a playful pop of color without committing to a full head of dye. They’re particularly well-suited for professionals who need to maintain a conservative appearance in the workplace but desire a creative outlet. The hidden nature of the color allows for a more subdued look during the day, while still providing the option to showcase vibrant hues after work hours or on weekends.
Furthermore, underlights are a great choice for those with finer hair, as they can add depth and dimension without weighing the hair down like some other coloring techniques. They also work well for individuals who want to experiment with bold colors but are hesitant to make a drastic change. The ability to easily hide the color provides a safety net and allows for a gradual transition into brighter shades.
What hair lengths and types work best with underlights?
Underlights generally work well with medium to long hair, as the length allows for the hidden color to be properly displayed when styled. The longer the hair, the more opportunity there is to create a dramatic reveal when the top layers are lifted or styled away. However, even shorter bobs can benefit from underlights, provided there’s enough length in the underlayer to show off the chosen color.
In terms of hair type, underlights can be adapted to suit most textures, from straight to curly. The key is to ensure that the chosen color complements the natural hair tone and that the application is precise to achieve the desired effect. For curly hair, it’s important to consider how the curls will fall and ensure that the underlights are strategically placed to maximize visibility when the hair is styled in its natural state.
How do I choose the right colors for my underlights?
When selecting colors for your underlights, consider your skin tone, natural hair color, and personal style. Those with cooler skin tones often look great with cool-toned colors like blues, purples, and silvers. Conversely, warmer skin tones tend to be complemented by warmer colors such as reds, oranges, and golds. Also, think about how the underlight color will contrast or blend with your natural hair color.
Ultimately, the best colors for your underlights are those that you feel confident and comfortable wearing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold and vibrant shades, but also consider more subtle and natural tones if you prefer a more understated look. Consulting with a professional stylist can help you choose the perfect colors to enhance your features and express your individuality.
What is the process for getting underlights? Can I do it myself?
The process for getting underlights involves separating the top layers of hair and applying color to the underlying sections. This can be done using various techniques, such as foils or freehand painting, depending on the desired effect and the expertise of the stylist. The color is then processed, rinsed, and the hair is styled to showcase the underlights.
While DIY underlights are possible, it’s generally recommended to have them done professionally, especially for complex color combinations or if you’re aiming for a specific look. A professional stylist can ensure even color application, prevent damage to your hair, and provide expert advice on color selection and maintenance. DIY attempts can result in patchy color, uneven distribution, or damage to the hair.
How do I maintain my underlights and keep the color vibrant?
To maintain your underlights and keep the color vibrant, use color-safe shampoo and conditioner. These products are formulated to gently cleanse the hair without stripping away the color. Avoid washing your hair too frequently, as this can cause the color to fade faster. When you do wash your hair, use lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can also contribute to color fading.
Additionally, protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray. The sun’s rays can cause the color to fade or become brassy. Avoid using heat styling tools excessively, as the heat can also damage the hair and cause the color to fade. If you do use heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. Consider using a color-depositing conditioner or mask to refresh the color between salon visits.
How long do underlights typically last, and when do they need to be touched up?
The lifespan of underlights depends on several factors, including the type of dye used, the color intensity, and how well you maintain them. Generally, semi-permanent colors tend to fade faster than permanent colors. However, even permanent colors will eventually fade over time due to washing, styling, and sun exposure.
Typically, underlights need to be touched up every 4-8 weeks, depending on the rate of hair growth and the desired level of color vibrancy. If you’re using a semi-permanent color, you may need to touch them up more frequently. Regularly using color-depositing products can help extend the life of your underlights and minimize the need for frequent salon visits. Consult with your stylist for personalized recommendations on touch-up schedules.