Whether you’re looking to switch up your style for a special occasion or simply want to refresh your look, highlights can add depth and dimension to your wig. This comprehensive guide will take you through how to do highlights on a wig, ensuring you achieve a stunning result.
How to Do Highlights on a Wig: A Step-by-Step Guide
Highlights on a wig can transform its appearance, making it look more natural and vibrant. Here’s a detailed step-by-step process to create beautiful highlights:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
- High-quality hair color or highlight kit specifically for wigs
- Applicator brush
- Aluminum foil or plastic wrap
- Gloves to protect your hands
- Comb and clips to section the hair
- Wide-tooth comb or wig brush for detangling
- Old towel or cape to protect your clothes
- Color-safe shampoo and conditioner (for aftercare)
Step 2: Prepare the Wig
Start by washing the wig with a color-safe shampoo to remove any product buildup. Let it dry completely. This will help the hair color adhere better.
Step 3: Section the Hair
Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle the wig. Section the hair into manageable parts using clips. For traditional highlights, think about how you want the highlights to fall—face-framing pieces, random strands, or an all-over effect.
Step 4: Mix the Hair Color
Follow the instructions on your hair color kit. Mix the highlights according to the guidelines, wearing gloves to prevent staining your hands.
Step 5: Apply the Highlights
Using an applicator brush, take thin sections of hair and apply the color. You can use aluminum foil to separate the highlighted sections from the rest to avoid any bleeding. For natural-looking highlights, focus on painting the tips and mid-lengths rather than the roots.
Step 6: Set the Color
Once you’ve applied the highlights to all sections, wrap the foiled areas in plastic wrap or foil to keep the heat in, which helps the color process. Let it sit as per the instructions on the color kit—usually around 20-30 minutes.
Step 7: Rinse and Condition
After the processing time is up, rinse the wig thoroughly in cool water until the water runs clear. Apply color-safe conditioner and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing again.
Step 8: Dry and Style
Gently blot the wig with a towel to remove excess water and let it air dry. Once dry, style the wig as desired and enjoy your newly highlighted hair!
Benefits of Highlighting Your Wig
Adding highlights to your wig comes with numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Realism: Highlights create depth and mimic the natural variation seen in real hair.
- Customizable Looks: You can choose colors and placements that suit your style and personality.
- Fashion Forward: Highlights are a trendy way to keep your look fresh and current.
Important Considerations When Highlighting a Wig
Before you begin highlighting your wig, keep the following tips in mind:
- Always conduct a strand test to see how your wig’s material reacts with the dye.
- Ensure that the wig is made from synthetic hair designed for dyeing or real human hair; some wigs do not take color well.
- Consider using temporary hair color sprays for a non-permanent option if you’re unsure.
In summary, knowing how to do highlights on a wig opens up a world of creativity and personalization. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you’ll master the art of wig highlights and create a stunning new look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I highlight a synthetic wig?
Yes, but be cautious. Most synthetic wigs can't handle chemicals well, so consider using a temporary color for better results.
How long do highlights on a wig last?
The longevity of highlights depends on the type of wig and the dye used. Generally, expect 4-8 washes for temporary colors.
What should I do if the highlights are too harsh?
You can tone down harsh highlights by washing the wig with a color-safe conditioner multiple times or using a toner.
