#Contour Highlights: A Modern Approach to Dimension
Contour highlights are a popular hair color technique that adds dimension and movement to your look. It’s all about strategically placed lighter pieces to mimic how light naturally falls on the face. Let's break down everything you need to know.
#1. Definition & How Contour Highlights Work
Contour highlighting combines aspects of traditional foil highlights with a softer, more blended approach similar to balayage. Think of it as a hybrid technique. The goal isn’t uniform brightness across the head; instead, colorists focus on areas that naturally catch light – typically around the face and part line.
Tools & Materials:
- Foil or balayage brushes
- Lightener (developer strength is customized for your hair)
- Toner/gloss (to refine tone after lightening)
- Sectioning clips
- Gloves
The Process – Placement and Timing:
- Consultation & Sectioning: The stylist assesses your current color, desired outcome, and hair type. Hair is sectioned into manageable areas.
- Strategic Placement: Highlights are painted or foiled in specific zones: around the face (especially forehead, cheekbones), along the part line, and sometimes subtly throughout the back of the head to add depth. The stylist will typically use a "face-framing" pattern with lighter pieces that blend into more subtle highlights further back.
- Processing Time: Processing time varies based on your hair's starting color and desired lift (how much lighter you want to go). The stylist monitors the process carefully, checking for even development.
- Toning/Glossing: After rinsing out the lightener, a toner or gloss is applied. This step neutralizes any unwanted brassiness and creates your ideal shade – from cool beige to warm honey gold.
#2. Best Use Cases: Goals Contour Highlights Achieve
Contour highlights are incredibly versatile! Here’s what they can accomplish:
- Adding Dimension: The primary goal - creating a multi-dimensional look that moves with you.
- Root Blurring: The strategic placement allows for a softer, less harsh grow-out compared to traditional highlights.
- Face Framing: Brightens and accentuates facial features by strategically placing lighter pieces around the face.
- Subtle Coverage (of Grays): While not intended as full gray coverage, contour highlights can blend grays seamlessly into your natural color, making them less noticeable.
- Softening Features: Highlights placed in specific areas can soften a strong jawline or round out a long face shape.
#3. Who Suits Contour Highlights?
Contour highlights are generally flattering on many people, but here's what to consider:
- Natural Color Level: Works well on levels 2-7 (light blonde to dark brown). Darker hair will see more dramatic contrast.
- Undertone: Consider your skin’s undertone. Warm skin tones often look great with golden or copper highlights, while cool skin tones shine with ashier or beige tones.
- Hair Type/Texture:
- Straight Hair: Highlights show up beautifully and create a sleek, polished look.
- Wavy Hair: Adds definition and enhances natural waves.
- Curly & Coily Hair: Requires careful placement to avoid highlighting the scalp too much. The stylist must consider curl pattern and density for even distribution.
- Hair Density: Works on both fine and thick hair, but adjustments in foil/painting technique will be made. Thicker hair may require more highlights for noticeable dimension.
- Hair Length: Suitable for all lengths – short bobs to long flowing locks.
- Lifestyle: Ideal for those who want a low-maintenance look that still feels modern and stylish.
#4. Compared to Similar Techniques
Understanding the differences helps you communicate your desired outcome:
- Balayage vs. Contour Highlights: Balayage is entirely freehand, resulting in a softer, more diffused blend. Contour highlights use both painting and foiling for more precise placement and dimension.
- Foilyage vs. Contour Highlights: Foilyage combines balayage techniques with foil application to lift the hair significantly and create intense brightness. Contour highlights are generally less dramatic than foilyage, focusing on subtle dimension rather than all-over lightness.
- Root Smudge/Shadow Root vs. Contour Highlights: A root smudge or shadow root is a technique used after highlighting (including contour highlights) to soften the line between your natural roots and the highlighted hair. It creates an illusion of depth and extends time between salon visits. Contour highlights are the initial lightening process; a shadow root can be added afterward.
#5. Maintenance & Longevity
Planning for upkeep is key!
- Salon Timing: Expect to get contour highlights every 3-6 months, depending on your desired level of brightness and how quickly your roots grow in.
- Toner/Gloss Refresh: A toner or gloss should be applied approximately every 6-8 weeks to maintain the desired tone and prevent brassiness.
- Grow-Out Behavior: The blended placement means a softer, more natural grow-out compared to traditional highlights. The line of demarcation is less harsh.
- Budget/Time Planning: Contour highlights typically cost $150-$400+ depending on hair length and stylist experience. Refreshing toners/glosses are usually an additional $50-$150+.
#6. At-Home Care Tips
Protect your investment!
- Wash Cadence: Wash your hair less frequently (2-3 times a week) to preserve color vibrancy.
- Heat Protection: Always use a heat protectant spray before using styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, or curling irons.
- Color-Safe Care: Use shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for colored hair. Look for sulfate-free options.
- Purple Shampoo/Conditioner: Use occasionally to neutralize brassy tones (especially if you have warm highlights). Don’t overuse it – it can make your hair too cool!
#7. Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Low maintenance grow out
- Adds dimension and movement
- Face-framing effect brightens features
- Versatile for various hair types and lengths
- Softer, more natural look than traditional highlights
Cons:
- Can be time consuming in the salon.
- Requires a skilled colorist for optimal results.
- May not provide full gray coverage.
- Cost can add up with regular touch-ups and toning/glosses.
#8. Salon Consultation Script (Prompts)
Your stylist should ask you these questions:
- What is your desired level of lightness? Show me some pictures!
- What are your concerns about your current hair color or style?
- Do you have any allergies to hair dye ingredients?
- How much time and money are you willing to invest in maintenance?
- Are there specific areas you want brighter/darker (e.g., face-framing, part line)?
- What is your typical styling routine?
#9. FAQs
- Can I get contour highlights if my hair is already colored? Yes! But a color analysis and strand test are crucial to ensure compatibility and prevent unexpected results.
- Will contour highlights damage my hair? Any lightening process can cause some degree of dryness or damage, but a skilled stylist will use appropriate products and techniques to minimize it.
- How long does the entire process take? Typically 2-4 hours, depending on your hair length, density, and desired result.
- Can I do contour highlights at home? While possible for experienced DIYers with a strong understanding of color theory, it’s best left to professionals for optimal results and to avoid damage.
- What if my highlights turn brassy after a few weeks? Use a purple shampoo or gloss as directed on the product label. A salon toner can also correct this issue.
- Will contour highlights work with my existing layers? Absolutely! The stylist will strategically place highlights to enhance your layers and create even more dimension.
- What's the difference between a ‘money piece’ and contour highlights? While both involve face-framing, “money pieces” typically refer to significantly brighter sections around the face for maximum impact. Contour highlighting is generally softer and more blended overall.
- How do I know if my stylist is experienced with this technique? Ask to see examples of their previous work, specifically contour highlights on different hair types and colors.