Fashionable highlighting “salt and pepper” – technique of execution and photo of the result

A popular hair coloring method called "salt and pepper highlighting" combines gray tones with darker tones to produce a chic and organic contrast. Due to its sophisticated and edgy vibe, this look has grown in popularity among people of all ages who wish to embrace a modern aesthetic.

The method is all about adding cool gray tones that blend in naturally with dark hair to create a look that resembles salt and pepper. This cut gives the hair a sophisticated, eye-catching texture in addition to depth.

The salt and pepper highlight is a flexible choice, whether you want to go bold or just accentuate your natural grays. With its understated yet eye-catching effect, it’s a chic option for anyone looking for a new, modern hairstyle.

What is it?

A unique technique called "salt and pepper highlighting" involves bleaching curls and then toning them to create the appearance of ash hair.

This coloring style is best suited for daring women who are willing to try new things. There are no age limitations for this kind of highlighting because it can help older women cover up gray hair while giving younger girls a sense of extravagance and boldness.

It should be noted that applying salt and pepper to fully gray hair is not advised as it will be challenging to achieve a smooth transition from light gray to nearly black. As an aside, the reason this style of highlighting has that name is because of the colors used: black (pepper) and white (salt). However, a noble graphite shade is produced because the border where these opposing tones transition is invisible.

The original purpose of salt and pepper highlighting was to prevent its owner from having to constantly touch up their graying hair. However, young girls who don’t mind standing out from the crowd are now drawn to this style of coloring.

The only thing I would like to mention is that brunettes should avoid using this color range for highlighting because it will be difficult for them to achieve a stylish shade of ash due to the natural dark color of their hair. It is challenging to lighten black curls because there is always some yellowing afterwards, which makes the coloring outcome unclear.

There are no limitations on hair length in this case. Salt and pepper work well with curls of any length, medium length, or even shorter length. Hairstyles such as Italian or Bob that feature cascading strands of hair will complement this coloring particularly well. However, girls with straight hair, like those with bobs, can also afford it; in this instance, styling calls for a little carelessness.

The following are the unwavering benefits of highlighting with salt and pepper:

• no need to touch up the roots;
• no age restrictions;
• adds visual volume to the hairstyle;
• an ultra-fashionable look is guaranteed.

However, there are a number of drawbacks as well:

• not suitable for use on dark or very damaged hair;
• not recommended after curling or dyeing with a natural dye, such as henna;
• quite a complex technique, not suitable for home use.

Difference from other types

Using salt and pepper is an entirely different method of emphasizing threads. After all, in contrast to traditional or American highlighting, which lightens only specific strands of hair, it entails totally bleaching the entire affected area. However, this method is not the same as Brazilian coloring because it calls for coloring the hair in an ash tone using multiple paint tones afterwards.

Features and technique of execution

The salt and pepper highlighting technique is unique in that it gives bleached hair a cool ash tone. Such strands will resemble gray hair in appearance, appearing silvery or even gray.

Since this technique is challenging to perform at home, it is best to speak with an expert or, in the worst case scenario, watch multiple training videos on the subject.

List of coloring-related tools needed:

• lightening powder and oxidizer;
• ash-colored paint;
• comb with a thin handle;
• foil;
• nourishing or restorative mask;
• containers for mixing coloring agents.

It is preferable to highlight unclean hair because it will help keep the structure intact when bleaching.

Guidelines for applying the salt and pepper highlight:

1. First, you should mix the lightener with the oxidizer (for light brown curls – 9%, for light – 6%).
2. Next, you need to divide all the hair into zones (occipital, temporal, frontal).
3. After this, you can begin to apply the lightening mixture (it should be distributed very carefully, but quickly, each strand should be wrapped in a foil envelope).
4. You need to wait 30-40 minutes (according to the manufacturer"s instructions). Afterwards, rinse the product off your hair and let it dry slightly naturally.
5. Now you can apply the tinting dye. Leave it on your hair for at least 20 minutes, rinse with shampoo.
6. Apply the mask, leave it on for a few minutes, rinse.
7. Dry your hair, apply hair oil or fluid to it and you can start styling.

Take all necessary safety precautions, such as wearing rubber gloves and avoiding getting chemicals in your eyes.

You should use a series of nourishing masks prior to dying. They can be bought under the "restorative" label or made yourself using kefir, eggs, and oils. The course lasts for one week. This will act as a foundation for reducing lightning damage.

Photo

Examine the picture to see how unique the highlighted area appears on your hair:

By combining black and silver tones, the "salt and pepper" highlighting technique creates a chic contrast that resembles gray hair. It’s a well-liked option for people who want to embrace their natural gray hair or give darker hair a stylish, textured look. The technique entails the deliberate placement of highlights and lowlights to produce a refined, well-balanced effect. The end effect is a sleek, contemporary look that works well on a range of hair types and lengths and provides a bold, new look with little upkeep.

How long will it last on your hair?

Highlighting with salt and pepper doesn’t need to be touched up all the time. To keep your hair looking nice, just use a specific shampoo 1-2 times a week to tone your curls. It will be necessary to re-dye no sooner than two months.

It’s crucial to take care of your hair after coloring it by keeping it from drying out. They require continuous hydration with oils and balms. It is preferable to use a "sulfate-free" professional shampoo. Avoid hot styling during the time after highlighting when your curls are restoring, and use a heat-protective spray if you can’t live without an iron or hair dryer.

The "salt and pepper" highlighting trend creates a striking contrast by combining natural grays with darker tones for a distinctive and elegant look. For people who are rocking an edgy, chic look or who are embracing their gray hair, it’s the ideal option.

To achieve a smooth color blend, this method needs accuracy and skill. The outcomes can be customized to match your unique style, whether you’re going for a more subdued combination or a more striking statement.

In the end, "salt and pepper" highlights are a stylish option for anyone wishing to update their appearance while showcasing the inherent beauty of gray tones. They are adaptable and have a contemporary flair.

Video on the topic

Salt and pepper dyeing technique

Both are silent, what next?

Hair coloring.Highlighting on short gray hair. Hair tinting in ash.