should you wash your hair before getting highlights

3 min read 15-04-2025

should you wash your hair before getting highlights

Meta Description: Wondering whether to wash your hair before highlights? This comprehensive guide explores the pros and cons, revealing the best approach for healthy, vibrant results. Discover expert tips and advice to ensure your highlights look amazing. Get ready for your salon appointment with confidence!

Washing your hair before getting highlights is a common question with no single right answer. The ideal approach depends on several factors, including your hair type, the highlighting technique, and your stylist's recommendations. Let's delve into the details to help you make the best decision.

The Great Hair Washing Debate: Before or After Highlights?

Many stylists have differing opinions on this topic. Some believe washing beforehand is best, while others prefer working with unwashed hair. Understanding the reasons behind each preference is key to making an informed choice.

Why Some Stylists Prefer Clean Hair for Highlights

Better Product Application: Clean hair allows for more even distribution of bleach or highlights. This is particularly true for foil highlighting techniques where precise placement is essential. Without product buildup, the stylist can achieve a more uniform color lift.
Reduced Damage: Some stylists believe that clean hair is less prone to damage during the highlighting process. This is because natural oils can sometimes interfere with the lightening process, leading to uneven results or increased hair breakage.
Improved Color Accuracy: With clean hair, the stylist can achieve a more accurate assessment of the final color. Build-up can alter how the hair absorbs the color, potentially resulting in unexpected results.

Why Some Stylists Prefer Unwashed Hair for Highlights

Natural Protection: Your scalp's natural oils provide a degree of protection against the chemicals used during highlighting. This can be especially beneficial for those with sensitive scalps or fine, fragile hair.
Easier to Manage: Unwashed hair often has more grip, making it easier for the stylist to section and work with during the highlighting process. This could lead to a faster and more efficient appointment.
Better for Balayage: For balayage, a freehand highlighting technique, some stylists find that unwashed hair offers better grip and allows for more natural-looking results.

The Verdict: What's Best for You?

Ultimately, the best approach depends on several factors.

Your Hair Type: Those with fine, dry, or damaged hair might benefit from the natural oil protection offered by unwashed hair. Those with oily hair may find that clean hair is preferable.
Highlighting Technique: Certain techniques, like foil highlights, might work better with clean hair, while others like balayage might be better suited to unwashed hair.
Your Stylist's Recommendation: The most crucial factor is your stylist's professional opinion. They'll consider your specific hair type, desired look, and the highlighting technique being used. Trust their expertise; they have the most experience working with your hair type.

What to Do Before Your Appointment: A Step-by-Step Guide

Regardless of whether you wash your hair or not, here's how to prepare for your highlighting appointment.

If You Choose to Wash Your Hair:

Wash with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo: Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Condition lightly: Apply a lightweight conditioner to detangle your hair. Avoid heavy conditioners that might interfere with the highlighting process.
Air dry completely: Avoid heat styling, as this can damage your hair. Ensure your hair is fully dry before your appointment.

If You Choose Not to Wash Your Hair:

Avoid using styling products: Keep your hair as clean as possible. Avoid any products that could interfere with the highlighting process.
Gently comb or brush: This will ensure your hair is tangle-free and easy for your stylist to work with.
Come prepared: It's helpful to communicate with your stylist about the products you have used on your hair.

Maintaining Your Beautiful Highlights

After your highlighting appointment, maintaining your beautiful new color is crucial.

Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner: These products are designed to protect your highlighted hair from fading and damage.
Deep condition regularly: This will keep your highlighted hair moisturized and healthy.
Protect your hair from the sun: UV rays can damage and fade your highlights.
Follow your stylist's aftercare advice: Your stylist will provide personalized advice on how best to maintain your highlights.

Conclusion: Listen to Your Stylist!

Ultimately, the question of whether to wash your hair before highlights is best answered by your stylist. Consider your hair type and the highlighting technique, and always communicate openly with your professional. With proper preparation and aftercare, you'll achieve gorgeous, healthy-looking highlights that last. Remember, communication is key for a successful highlighting experience!