Have you ever wanted to add a touch of glamour to your hair without stepping foot in a salon? Look no further! In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of achieving stunning chunky highlights in the comfort of your own home.
What are Chunky Highlights
Chunky highlights refer to a hair coloring technique where thicker, more pronounced sections of hair are lightened or colored compared to the surrounding hair. These sections are usually larger and create a more distinct contrast against the base color. The intention is to create a bold and dramatic look with visibly noticeable streaks of color.
Chunky highlights were particularly popular in the early 2000s and have recently experienced a resurgence in modern hair trends. The difference is in the early 2000s, chunky highlights were often created with thick, clearly defined streaks of contrasted colors. Now, the modern take on chunky highlights focuses on creating dimension and depth while still maintaining a softer and more blended look.
How to Do Stunning Chunky Highlights
Doing chunky highlights at home can be a fun and creative way to experiment with your hair. However, it is important to approach the process with caution and care to avoid any damage or uneven results. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving stunning chunky highlights at home:Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
- Hair bleach or hair lightening kit
- Developer (choose the appropriate volume based on your hair type and desired lightness)
- Foil or plastic wrap
- Hair coloring brush or applicator
- Gloves
- Wide-tooth comb
- Hair clips or hair ties
- Conditioning treatment or mask
Step 2: Prepare Your Workstation
- Cover your work area with newspaper or an old towel to protect against any spills or stains.
- Put on an old shirt or wrap a towel around your shoulders to prevent the bleach from getting on your clothes.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
- Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties.
- Start with the bottom layer and work your way up, focusing on one section at a time.
Step 4: Mix the Bleach
- Follow the instructions provided with your hair bleach or lightening kit to prepare the mixture.
- Mix the bleach powder with the developer in a non-metallic bowl until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 5: Apply the Bleach
- Put on your gloves to protect your hands.
- Start with one section of your hair and use the hair coloring brush or applicator to apply the bleach mixture to the desired areas.
- Apply the bleach generously to ensure even coverage and saturation. Avoid getting the bleach on your scalp or roots.
Step 6: Wrap in Foil or Plastic Wrap
- Once you've applied the bleach to a section, carefully wrap it in foil or plastic wrap to create a barrier and prevent the bleach from drying out.
- Repeat this process for each section of hair you wish to highlight.
Step 7: Process and Monitor
- Follow the recommended processing time provided with your bleach or lightening kit. It's crucial to keep a close eye on the color development to avoid over-processing.
- Check the progress every few minutes by unwrapping a foil and checking the lightness of the highlighted section. If it reaches your desired level, move on to the rinsing step.
Step 8: Rinse and Shampoo
- Once you're satisfied with the level of lightness, remove the foils or plastic wrap and rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Shampoo your hair to remove any bleach residue and neutralize the effects of the bleach. Follow with a conditioner to restore moisture.
Step 9: Apply a Conditioning Treatment
- After shampooing and conditioning, apply a deep conditioning treatment or mask to nourish and replenish your hair.
- Leave the treatment on for the recommended amount of time, then rinse thoroughly.
Step 10: Style and Maintain
- Once your hair is dry, style it as desired. You can curl, straighten, or leave it natural to showcase your new chunky highlights.
- To maintain the vibrancy and health of your highlights, use color-safe products, avoid excessive heat styling, and protect your hair from sun damage.
Remember, it is always recommended to consult a professional hairstylist if you're unsure or inexperienced in coloring your hair at home. They can provide personalized advice and guidance to achieve the best results.
