When it comes to coloring your hair, besides picking the shade the next thing you’ll need to do is pick the process. From a single process to balayage and highlights or double process, each one requires a different level of commitment and investment – so it’s important to understand this undertaking before visiting the salon. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide about how to pick a process to get the color you desire.
Single Process
If you like a monochromatic look, or if you’re trying to cover grays this is the process for you. This can also be combined with highlights or balayage to get a highlighted look while also covering pesky grays. This involves using permanent or semi-permanent hair color and applying either at the roots or at the roots and throughout ends. Sometimes a combination of permanent color at the roots and semi-permanent or Redken Shades EQ gloss throughout the ends is required. You’ll need to commit to visiting your stylist every 3-6 weeks to cover new growth for a seamless style.
Balayage
Balayage is the art of “painting” in bleach throughout a head of hair to get a highlighted effect. This option is great for anyone who wants a highlighted finish with a lived-in vibe. Balayage is also often paired with Redken Shades EQ gloss to equalize tone and add shine. While you might only need to visit the salon every 6-12 weeks based on your style, you might need a Shades EQ to touch up in between to combat unwanted tones. You’ll also want to add a shampoo and conditioner specifically for color-treated hair to your routine.
Try: Redken Color Extend Blondage Shampoo, Conditioner + Mask
Highlights
This process utilizes bleach with foils placed in the hair with slices and weaves. Foils are used to get a higher lift and more specialized placement. For example, babylights use very small weaves and many foils to lift hair with a less dimensional effect. This would best be used for a brunette who wants to transform into a bright blonde or for anyone who needs a highly blended look. The direction of sectioning, formulation of bleach and the number of foils placed in the hair can be used to create a plethora of finished looks. Ombre’s or sombre’s can also be created with foils simply by the placement of the bleach within a foil.
