Getting highlights can be a fantastic way to refresh your look, adding dimension, brightness, and a touch of glamour to your hair. But before you book that appointment or grab your highlighting kit, a crucial question arises: Do you need to wash your hair before highlighting? The answer, as with many things in the beauty world, isn’t a straightforward yes or no. It’s nuanced and depends on several factors. Let’s dive into the details to ensure you get the best possible results from your highlighting session.
Understanding Hair Condition and Highlighting Chemistry
To truly understand whether to wash your hair before highlights, we need to explore how hair condition affects the highlighting process. Highlights work by using chemical agents, primarily bleach, to lighten the hair strands. This process involves opening the hair cuticle, penetrating the hair shaft, and dissolving the natural pigment. The health of your hair directly impacts how well it can withstand this chemical process.
The Role of Natural Oils
Our scalp naturally produces sebum, an oily substance that serves as a protective barrier for the hair. This natural oil can act as a buffer between the hair and the harsh chemicals in the highlighting solution.
Sebum helps to minimize damage during the highlighting process. When the cuticle is opened by the bleach, the sebum provides a degree of protection, preventing excessive dryness and breakage.
Stripping away all the natural oils through excessive washing can leave your hair vulnerable, making it more susceptible to damage from the highlighting chemicals.
Hair Product Buildup and its Impact
While natural oils can be beneficial, the same cannot be said for product buildup. Hairspray, gels, serums, and other styling products can accumulate on the hair, forming a barrier that interferes with the highlighting process.
Product buildup can prevent the bleach from properly penetrating the hair shaft. This can lead to uneven or patchy highlighting results. Imagine trying to paint a wall that’s covered in dust – the paint won’t adhere properly.
Furthermore, some hair products contain silicones, which can create a coating on the hair that resists the penetration of chemicals. These silicones can also react negatively with the highlighting solution, leading to unexpected results.
The General Recommendation: Dirty Hair vs. Clean Hair
Considering the benefits of natural oils and the drawbacks of product buildup, the general recommendation leans towards highlighting slightly “dirty” hair. However, the degree of “dirtiness” is critical.
Why Slightly Dirty Hair is Preferred
Most professional stylists recommend waiting one to two days after washing your hair before getting highlights. This allows some natural oils to accumulate on the scalp and hair shaft, providing a protective barrier.
This natural oil barrier can help to reduce the risk of scalp irritation and hair damage from the bleach. It’s like having a natural pre-treatment that minimizes the harsh effects of the chemicals.
However, it’s essential to note that this recommendation applies to individuals who don’t have excessively oily hair or significant product buildup.
When Clean Hair is Necessary
There are specific situations where washing your hair before highlights is necessary.
If you have excessive product buildup, washing your hair is crucial to ensure the bleach can properly penetrate the hair shaft and produce even results.
If your hair is exceptionally oily, a gentle wash can remove excess sebum and prevent the bleach from being diluted or repelled.
If you’ve used heavy styling products or hair waxes, washing your hair is essential to remove these substances and prevent any adverse reactions with the highlighting chemicals.
Factors to Consider Before Deciding
Several factors should be considered to determine whether to wash your hair before highlights.
Your Hair Type
Your hair type plays a significant role in how your hair responds to the highlighting process.
Fine hair tends to be more delicate and prone to damage. Therefore, leaving some natural oils on fine hair can provide extra protection during highlighting.
Thick hair can generally withstand more chemical processing. However, if thick hair is also oily, a gentle wash may be necessary to remove excess sebum.
Dry hair may benefit from the protective barrier of natural oils. Washing dry hair immediately before highlighting can exacerbate dryness and increase the risk of breakage.
Scalp Sensitivity
If you have a sensitive scalp, the chemicals in highlighting solutions can cause irritation, itching, or even burning.
Leaving some natural oils on the scalp can help to protect it from the harsh chemicals. This is particularly important for individuals with conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
If you know you are prone to scalp irritation, communicate this to your stylist so they can take extra precautions, such as applying a barrier cream to your scalp before highlighting.
Products Used and Styling Routine
Your regular styling routine and the types of products you use can significantly impact your hair’s condition before highlighting.
If you frequently use heavy styling products like hairspray, gels, or waxes, washing your hair before highlighting is essential. These products can create a barrier that prevents the bleach from working effectively.
If you primarily use lightweight, water-based products, you may be able to skip washing your hair before highlighting, as these products are less likely to cause significant buildup.
Hair History and Previous Treatments
Your hair’s history of chemical treatments can also influence whether you should wash your hair before highlighting.
If you’ve recently had your hair permed, relaxed, or chemically straightened, your hair is already more susceptible to damage. In this case, leaving some natural oils on your hair can provide extra protection during highlighting.
If you’ve recently had your hair colored, consult with your stylist about the best approach. Sometimes, waiting a bit longer between color treatments and highlights is recommended.
The Stylist’s Perspective and Consultation
Ultimately, the best way to determine whether to wash your hair before highlights is to consult with a professional stylist. They can assess your hair’s condition, consider your hair type, and take into account your styling routine to provide personalized recommendations.
The Importance of a Pre-Highlighting Consultation
A pre-highlighting consultation is an essential step in the highlighting process. During this consultation, your stylist will examine your hair, ask about your styling habits, and discuss your desired results.
Be honest and upfront with your stylist about your hair care routine. This will help them assess your hair’s condition and determine the best course of action.
Don’t hesitate to ask your stylist any questions you have about the highlighting process, including whether you should wash your hair beforehand.
The Stylist’s Assessment and Recommendation
Based on their assessment, your stylist will recommend whether to wash your hair before highlights. They may also suggest using a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup or applying a deep conditioning treatment to hydrate your hair.
Trust your stylist’s expertise. They have experience working with various hair types and can provide the best advice for your specific situation.
If you’re highlighting your hair at home, carefully read the instructions on the highlighting kit and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, keep in mind that professional guidance is always preferable.
Alternative Approaches: Clarifying Shampoos and Scalp Treatments
If you’re concerned about product buildup but don’t want to strip your hair of all its natural oils, consider using a clarifying shampoo or a scalp treatment.
Clarifying Shampoos: A Deep Cleanse
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, excess oil, and impurities from the hair. They are typically more potent than regular shampoos and should be used sparingly.
Use a clarifying shampoo only when necessary, as frequent use can dry out the hair.
When using a clarifying shampoo before highlighting, follow it with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture to your hair.
Scalp Treatments: Maintaining a Healthy Scalp
Scalp treatments can help to exfoliate the scalp, remove buildup, and promote healthy hair growth.
There are various types of scalp treatments available, including exfoliating scrubs, oil-based treatments, and medicated shampoos.
Choose a scalp treatment that is appropriate for your hair type and scalp condition.
If you have a sensitive scalp, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free scalp treatment.
Post-Highlighting Care: Protecting Your Investment
Regardless of whether you wash your hair before highlights, proper post-highlighting care is essential to maintain your hair’s health and vibrancy.
Hydrating Shampoos and Conditioners
After highlighting, use hydrating shampoos and conditioners to replenish moisture to your hair.
Look for products that are specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products are typically formulated with gentle ingredients that won’t strip the color from your hair.
Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, as these can be harsh on color-treated hair.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine to provide extra hydration and repair damage.
Use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week.
You can also make your own DIY deep conditioning treatments using ingredients like avocado, honey, and olive oil.
Heat Protection
Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons can damage highlighted hair.
Always use a heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools.
Try to minimize your use of heat styling tools to prevent further damage to your hair.
Regular Trims
Regular trims are essential to remove split ends and prevent breakage.
Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks.
This will help to keep your hair healthy and prevent the highlighted ends from becoming dry and brittle.
Conclusion: The Best Approach for Your Hair
Ultimately, the decision of whether to wash your hair before highlights depends on several factors, including your hair type, scalp condition, styling routine, and hair history. While slightly dirty hair is generally preferred, there are situations where clean hair is necessary. The best approach is to consult with a professional stylist who can assess your hair’s condition and provide personalized recommendations. Remember that proper post-highlighting care is crucial for maintaining your hair’s health and vibrancy. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your highlighting experience is a success and that your hair looks its best.
Do I really need to skip washing my hair before getting highlights?
Generally, it’s recommended to avoid washing your hair one to two days before getting highlights. The natural oils that accumulate on your scalp and hair strands provide a protective barrier against the potentially harsh chemicals in hair dye and bleach. This natural oil layer helps to minimize irritation and damage during the highlighting process, acting as a shield for your scalp and hair cuticles.
Washing your hair strips away these natural oils, leaving your scalp and hair more vulnerable to the chemicals. A clean scalp can sometimes react more intensely to the highlighting solution, potentially leading to itching, burning sensations, or increased dryness and breakage. Skipping a wash ensures a more comfortable and potentially less damaging highlighting experience.
What if my hair is naturally very oily? Can I still skip washing?
Even if your hair tends to be oily, it’s still generally advised to skip washing it for at least a day before your highlighting appointment. While excessive oil might seem counterintuitive, that thin layer is still providing some protection to your scalp. Completely stripping the oils away could increase the risk of irritation during the chemical processing.
If you’re truly concerned about excess oil, you could lightly blot your hair with a clean towel before your appointment. Avoid using dry shampoo too close to your appointment, as it can sometimes create a barrier that hinders the highlighting process. Communicate your concerns with your stylist; they can assess your hair and make adjustments to the highlighting process accordingly.
Will having dirty hair affect how the highlights take to my hair?
No, having slightly “dirty” hair, meaning hair that hasn’t been freshly washed, usually doesn’t negatively impact how well the highlights take. In fact, that bit of natural oil can actually help the color adhere more evenly in some cases, creating a more natural and blended result. The color doesn’t rely on perfectly clean hair to penetrate the hair shaft.
Modern hair dyes and highlighting products are formulated to work effectively even with a small amount of natural oils present. A skilled stylist will consider your hair’s condition and adjust their technique and product selection as needed. As long as your hair isn’t excessively dirty with product buildup or environmental grime, the highlights should process as expected.
Is there anything I should put in my hair before getting highlights?
Generally, it’s best to avoid applying any heavy products to your hair before getting highlights. Products like hairspray, gels, mousse, or heavy oils can create a barrier that prevents the highlighting solution from properly penetrating the hair shaft. This can result in uneven highlighting or a less vibrant color outcome.
The exception to this rule might be a leave-in conditioner or detangler if your hair is very prone to tangling. However, use these products sparingly and focus on the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the scalp area. Clear communication with your stylist about any products you’ve used is crucial, allowing them to assess your hair and adjust their approach if necessary for optimal results.
What happens if I wash my hair right before getting highlights?
Washing your hair immediately before getting highlights can leave your scalp and hair more susceptible to irritation and damage. The cleansing process removes the protective layer of natural oils, making the scalp more sensitive to the chemicals in the highlighting solution. This can lead to burning, itching, or increased dryness after the procedure.
Additionally, freshly washed hair can sometimes be more resistant to color absorption, potentially resulting in uneven or less vibrant highlights. The hair cuticle might be slightly swollen from the water, making it harder for the color to penetrate effectively. If you accidentally wash your hair, inform your stylist; they may adjust the processing time or use a gentler formula to mitigate potential issues.
Are there any exceptions to skipping washing before highlights?
There are some exceptions to the general rule of skipping a wash before highlights. If you use a lot of heavy styling products regularly, such as waxes or hairsprays that create significant buildup, a gentle clarifying shampoo might be necessary a couple of days before your appointment. Excessive product buildup can interfere with the highlighting process.
Another exception might be if you’ve recently been swimming in chlorinated water. Chlorine can react with hair dye and cause unwanted color changes. In this case, a clarifying shampoo a few days before your appointment is recommended to remove chlorine buildup. Always consult with your stylist if you have any specific concerns about your hair’s condition before your highlighting appointment.
How long should I wait to wash my hair after getting highlights?
It’s typically recommended to wait at least 48 to 72 hours after getting highlights before washing your hair. This allows the hair cuticle to fully close and seal in the color. Washing your hair too soon can cause the color to fade faster and can also strip away the natural oils that are essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated hair after the chemical process.
Using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair is crucial when you do wash your hair. Sulfates can be harsh and strip away the color, causing it to fade prematurely. Invest in quality hair care products designed to extend the life and vibrancy of your highlights while also nourishing and protecting your hair.