American highlighting – pros and cons, photos before and after, what it is, how long it lasts and who it suits

The popular hair coloring method known as "American highlighting" provides a vibrant and youthful appearance. It’s a flexible choice for people who want to give their hair more depth and dimension by utilizing several shades that go well together. Compared to traditional highlights, this method produces a more natural-looking, sun-kissed appearance.

The variety of shades available for customization to complement various skin tones and hair colors is one of the primary benefits of American highlighting. This technique can be tailored to your style, whether you’re going for bold, multi-toned effects or soft, subtle highlights. It’s a fantastic way to bring out the beauty of your hair without making major changes.

Like any coloring method, there are drawbacks to take into account though. American highlighting may not be appropriate for people with very dark or heavily processed hair, and it requires maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Your hair type and the shades used will determine how long the highlights last and how frequently you need touch-ups.

For those who wish to add brightness and dimension to their hair without making significant changes, this technique is ideal. We’ll go over the benefits and drawbacks of American highlighting in this post, along with before-and-after pictures, to help you determine if it’s the best choice for you.

What is American highlighting and the history of its creation

Conventional highlighting in hair coloring has been enhanced over the years. Today’s beauty industry offers a plethora of variations on the highlight technique. American highlighting is one of the most well-liked among women.

Because only a small portion of the hair is dyed, this method does not cause much damage to the hair, and the results will last for a long time.

One of the more recent hair coloring methods, American highlighting has become more and more well-liked since 2010.

We’ll explain why many people mistake American highlighting for coloring. Unlike standard highlighting, this method uses three to four shades to color the strands.

Large strands are typically caught rather than tiny ones, and they are dyed in a specific way. This coloring technique gives the hair visual volume, adds interest to the hairstyle, and achieves the most natural-looking color possible.

Making a type of highlight on the hair and simulating sun-bleached hair is the essence of American highlighting. Such highlighting comes in a few different forms, including Californian, traditional, red, and wild color schemes.

The term "American highlighting" comes from the fact that American stylists invented it. The naturally sun-bleached hair of Californians under their intense sun served as an inspiration to stylists. These days, all girls aspire to have hair that is as natural-looking as this and to look like beach girls.

Crucial! This process requires precise tone selection in order to dye the strands, and only seasoned professionals in this field are able to complete it effectively.

Who suits American highlighting

The fact that American highlighting works on all hair types is a clear benefit of this coloring technique. Since there are no set guidelines for coloring, most women opt for this technique. Hair of any length or shape, light or dark, straight or curly, can be dyed.

Additionally, there are no age restrictions. American highlighting looks fantastic on older women, giving the appearance of renewed youth, while it also enhances the allure and mystique of the image on younger girls.

Attention!

If you’re still considering coloring with this technique, schedule an appointment with a professional right away.

American highlighting is a contemporary hair coloring method that produces multidimensional highlights that seem natural. It entails blending various hues to give hair a sun-kissed look by adding depth and brightness. With the right maintenance, this technique can last several months and works well on a wide range of hair types and colors. However, in comparison to other highlighting techniques, it might take more time and upkeep. Even though the results can be breathtaking, you should think about hair health and maintenance before determining if this method is right for you. Images showing the changes before and after can be used to better understand the impact.

Pros and cons of American highlighting

Advantages:

• no age restrictions, this coloring method is suitable for both mature women and young representatives of the fair sex;
• coloring will look as natural as possible, since several similar tones with the color of your hair are selected;
• suitable for any hair structure: long and short, straight and curly;
• does not harm hair, since certain areas of hair are dyed, which has a positive effect on their overall condition;
• refreshes your hair, creates visual volume, gives natural shine to hair;
• no need to repeat the procedure often, regrown dyed hair looks fresh even after several months.

Cons:

• it is forbidden to use this technique on hair dyed with henna;
• it is forbidden to dye during pregnancy and lactation, as the dye may not be absorbed into the hair;
• the procedure takes a very long time, from three hours (depends on the length and thickness of your hair);
• it is difficult to repeat such dyeing at home;
• before the procedure, make sure your hair is in excellent condition;
• on already dyed hair, the color may differ from the expected.

If you have opted for the American highlighting process, this is your best bet for a stunning, well-groomed appearance. You should use this coloring if there are no contraindications.

Description of the American highlighting dyeing technique

Since it can be challenging to duplicate this coloring technique at home, we advise seeing a specialist at a beauty salon.

The process is executed using the subsequent algorithm:

• A specialist selects the most suitable tones in the color of your hair to color the strands;
• Dyeing begins from the occipital area. Using a thin comb, separate the strands, then dye them and wrap them in foil. In order not to confuse what color a strand was dyed, foil of different colors is used, this will help to control the process and, if necessary, tint the strands. From the back of the head, move to the temples and finish at the crown of the head;
• After you have dyed the main shade, proceed to the next one and repeat the previous process;
• Keep the paint on for as long as indicated in the instructions, usually takes about thirty minutes;
• It"s time to remove the foil from the strands. This is done as follows: starting from dark colors and ending with light ones;
• Then the hair is washed with a special shampoo and dried. Done!

Important!

Classic American highlighting

This coloring technique works well on both dark and light brown hair. When coloring hair, three to four tones are typically used, giving the hair a lush volume and natural appearance. This coloring technique is preferred by many Hollywood stars.

Californian

Since wax is added to the dye for Californian coloring, foil is typically not used when coloring strands using this technique. Wax does not spread throughout the hair; instead, it gives the hair a natural shine.

The coloring produces such a natural effect that the hair appears to have sunburned naturally.

Red

This coloring technique works well for girls with dark hair. Every strand’s tone is selected from the red spectrum, ranging from pink to dark burgundy. Shades of red, bronze, and brown are also employed.

With a dash of zaniness, this coloring will give brunettes a vivid and distinctive appearance.

Crazy colors (crazy colors)

This coloring technique is perfect for you if you’re a risk-taking, daring, and bold girl.

Multicolored threads will make your photo pop and seem vivid, unforgettable, new, and amazing. The short paint-wearing time of this coloring is one of its drawbacks. "Crazy colors" have nothing to do with natural and natural color.

Crazy multicolored blend for amazing beauties, appropriate for any hair tone, and since the dye lasts for two to three weeks, it can be applied for a holiday or vacation.

For dark hair

Dark hair was the main target audience for American highlighting. You should consult a specialist before using this coloring technique on your dark hair, as the strands need to be properly toned and lightened beforehand. You need skill to do this at home, as it is quite difficult. Dark haired people should wear the following shades: chocolate, red, brown, copper, and red.

For light brown hair

Consider American highlighting instead of drastically changing your hair color to blonde or brunette, as light brown hair color is frequently referred to as nondescript.

Your hairstyle will look flawlessly refreshed thanks to this coloring technique, as the three or four tones you choose will flow naturally into one another. Tones like light brown, chestnut, red, copper, brown, chocolate, honey, and blond are appropriate for light brown hair.

For dark brown hair

The idea behind coloring dark brown hair is the same as coloring dark hair. Red highlights work well with this shade of hair. However, you may also think about other possibilities, such as tones like light brown, brown, chocolate, honey, and chestnut.

For light hair

Californian highlighting is the most beneficial option for light hair. This kind of coloring gives hair visual thickness, volume, and splendor. Select hues that go well with your hair. The colors honey, golden, wheat, pearl, and ash go well with light hair.

The process of dying light hair involves applying a darker color at the roots and distributing lighter shades throughout the length in the opposite order.

On red hair

Those with fiery beauty don’t need to bring back the rich hair color. However, we advise redheads to dye their hair in shades of copper, golden, wheat, and honey if they want something new and different. On red hair, too-light strands will appear unnatural.

On gray hair

The onset of gray hair is viewed by many women as a true tragedy. We’re here to reassure you, though, as it’s quite fashionable right now to highlight gray hair with American hair color; you can go for light or ash tones. If you’re determined to hide your gray hair completely, we suggest dying your hair a light brown color and then selecting appropriate tones for each individual strand.

For chestnut hair

The term "American highlighting" conjures up images of reddish-red tones right away, as people with dark hair tend to use this coloring technique. Chestnut hair looks best in tones of copper, red, caramel, nutty, and honey.

For a bob

American highlighting is great for short hair, which is one of its major advantages. Hairstyles like a bob or a bob will look voluminous and intriguing when dyed in new colors.

However, as opposed to long hair, you will need to change your hairstyle more frequently.

For curly hair

For adorable curls, the Californian coloring technique works well. A seamless transition from dark roots to light ends is the essence of coloring. For this type of coloring, up to five tones are chosen. As a result, the paint will have lovely highlights throughout the head. The colors caramel, almond, and beige work best on curly hair.

For straight hair

Straight hair looks best when American highlights are applied, making this a timeless style choice. When highlighted, the hair of this structure will appear rich and graceful. This coloring technique adds volume and expressiveness to the hairstyle, as well as an unfathomable iridescent effect to the curls.

Do I need to wash my hair before American highlighting

Many girls are curious as to whether washing their hair before coloring it is necessary. It is not necessary to wash your hair before the procedure, according to any specialist. Doing so will strip your hair of its natural sebum, which will cause it to lose its protective layer and become damaged from overdrying.

Depending on how quickly your hair gets dirty, washing it three or six days before visiting a beauty salon is not advised.

Crucial! If the hair is dirty, don’t worry that the dye won’t take; in fact, it will take better and the hair will be shielded from dryness and brittleness. Of course, everything should have a measure, so don’t wait until your hair turns into greasy straws.

How much does American highlighting cost in a beauty salon

The American method of highlighting is not inexpensive. Naturally, going to a salon for hair coloring will be more expensive than doing it yourself. But keep in mind that the process is fairly challenging to carry out; therefore, have faith in the master to ensure that the outcome is not unexpected. Don’t skimp on the procedure—it won’t need to be done too frequently.

In a beauty salon, American highlighting for short hair costs roughly 1000 rubles, for medium hair it costs 3000 rubles, and for long hair it can cost up to 8000 rubles.

Remember that the price varies depending on your hair’s length and thickness, the area you live in, and the master’s level of professionalism.

How long does it take

The process is well-known for taking an extremely long time. But the outcome is worthwhile! Coloring takes three to five hours on average. Therefore, in order to avoid rushing anywhere, plan ahead for the fact that you will have to sit for a long time before going to the salon and cancel any upcoming events.

How long does it last

If you value your time, the American highlighting technique is a blessing. You can color for up to six months with this coloring! You won’t need to visit the salon too frequently because as your hair grows, it will only get more interesting-looking.

How often can you do American highlighting

It is not advised to color your hair frequently because coloring has a bad effect on it. Your hair will become brittle, dry, and lose its natural shine if it is dyed too frequently. It will also start to split at the ends.

Don’t dye your hair more than once every three months to prevent these awkward moments.

Beautiful shades and colors with American highlights

You must choose carefully if you want strands in interesting and beautiful shades. Everything is based on your natural color. American highlights originally suggested red and ginger hues for the strands, but there are now more variations, and every coloring technique has its own exquisite shades.

The hues nutty, honey, chocolate, copper, coffee, ash, and golden are this season’s top picks.

How to do American highlights at home

• emulsion container;
• flat paint brush;
• your required amount of paints;
• multicolored foil;
• thin comb;
• protective cape;
• hairpins;
• polyethylene gloves.

Attention!

Algorithm of action:

1. Throw a protective cape over yourself.
2. Put on gloves.
3. Dilute your paints in containers. 3% oxide is suitable for light hair, 6% oxide is suitable for dark and gray hair.
4. Divide the hair on your head into several parts: upper, lower and side. Secure them with clips.
5. Divide the upper part of the hair into strands, put foil under each strand.
6. Use uniform and driving movements to apply paint along the entire length of the strand. Do not touch the roots.
7. Fold the foil in the form of an envelope.
8. Now you need to work on the side strands from top to bottom. Do not touch the middle of the head.
9. The same actions for the other side.
10. The remaining hair should be divided into two parts. Divide the lower one and paint the strands using the previous methods.
11. The same for the rest of the hair.
12. Keep the dye on your hair for as long as indicated in the instructions.
13. Remove the foil.
14. Rinse the hair thoroughly under water.
15. Apply a strengthening mask to the hair. Done.

Price at home

The price range for coloring at home with the American highlighting method is 1000–2000 rubles. Everything relies on the manufacturer you choose and the quantity of paint you require.

American highlighting

For short hair

Short hair will look unique with this coloring. Your hair will appear much more voluminous and playful if you select the appropriate tones to match the color of your hair. American highlighting looks more interesting and beautiful on short hair than regular single-color coloring. Indeed, you’ll need to change the coloring more frequently than if your hair were longer.

For medium hair

The majority of girls have medium-length hair because it is both stylish and comfortable. It is improbable that you will discover a coloring technique that is unsuitable for medium-length hair. The most important thing to keep in mind is that brunettes look good with red highlights or crazy colors, and light-haired people look good with classic Californian highlights.

For long hair

A master’s real canvas is long hair. Here, you can let your creativity run wild! However, be aware that dying long hair will be expensive and time-consuming to achieve a masterpiece. Thus, in order to ensure a successful outcome, we suggest that you select a qualified expert in this area.

Hairstyles with American highlights

Any hairstyle that incorporates American highlights will look stunning! Whether it’s a simple head pigeonhole or an elaborate hairstyle. Your hairstyle will only become more elegant and mysterious with head coloring. On Hollywood curls, American highlights look especially stunning.

Aspect	Details
What is American highlighting?	American highlighting is a coloring technique that uses different shades to create depth and dimension in the hair. It often incorporates warm tones like reds, browns, and blondes.
Pros	Gives hair a natural sun-kissed look, adds volume and depth, suitable for different hair colors and lengths.
Cons	Can be expensive, requires regular maintenance, may cause some hair damage if not done carefully.
How long does it last?	The color usually lasts 4-6 weeks before roots start to show and require touch-ups.
Who does it suit?	Best for those with medium to long hair and people looking for a subtle, blended color change. It works well on most hair types and shades.
Photos: Before and After	Photos of American highlighting typically show how the technique brightens and adds texture to hair, enhancing natural beauty.

American highlighting is a multi-tonal hair coloring technique that is both vibrant and versatile, providing a striking appearance. For people who wish to add dimension and depth to their hair without entirely changing the color of their base hair, it’s ideal. A range of hair types and colors look good with the natural, sun-kissed effect that is produced by blending highlights and lowlights.

American highlighting has a number of benefits, chief among them being its durability, since it leaves fewer visible regrowth lines behind. It’s a great option for people who like low-maintenance styles because of this. But, it’s crucial to remember that regular maintenance and the use of color-safe products are necessary to preserve the health and brightness of highlighted hair.

Even though many people find the look attractive, it works best on people who don’t mind looking a little bold and highly contrasted. A professional stylist can assist you in making the best choice for your hair type and lifestyle if you’re not sure if this style is right for you.