HAIR HIGHLIGHT TIPS

There are three ways for hair highlight: Foiling, done only in salons, involves applying bleach to many fine strands of hair and individually wrapping them in foil. This process is the easiest to control and can be done closest to the roots; it usually will get you the best results.

Hair painting, which can be done at home or also by a colorist, is simply applying bleach randomly to the hair with a small brush.

The third -- and oldest -- method that doesn't produce very good results and is out of favor at salons, though it's still available in home kits. You place a plastic cap with small holes on your head, pull strands of hair through the holes with a small hook and then bleach them. There are benefits to having these processes done by a professional: A colorist can give you a few different levels of highlights for a more subtle look. (Sometimes they'll use a toner after highlighting to get just the right shade.) And of course, a pro can see the top and back of your head better than you can.

Color treated hair has special needs and good care is essential for any hair type. Follow these professional suggestions to keep your hair looking at its best!

Wet your hair with bottled spring water before getting in a chlorine pool, It will help to dilute the harsh chemicals.

Be very careful in the sun. please use hats, scarves or products with sunscreens to help protect against color fade and the drying effects of the sun.

Great for the beach, leave-in conditioners generally contain sunscreens to protect against color fade. You can look on the bottles and they will say UV protectant.

Shampoo gently with a shampoo specially created for color-treated hair. Rough shampooing can strip color or dry out hair. Condition regularly with an intensive conditioner to restore vital moisture and luster to your color treated hair.

Use color enhancing conditioners as color begins to grow out to help blend root areas.

Do not wrap in a towel turban when you get out of the shower with wet hair. The added friction can knot and damage vulnerable wet hair. Instead, carefully blot the hair until dry.

Don't brush hair when wet. Comb with a wide-tooth comb, working tangles out as you move from the ends towards the scalp.

Don't overdry. When you blow dry, dry your hair until it is almost, but not completely, dry. Leave some moisture in to prevent static.

Always use care when styling. When using styling appliances, use thermal protectant for maximum protection.

Try to avoid aggressive manipulation of the hair.

Use hairspray or spritz with moisturizers and sunscreens in them to finish the hair. These products will provide continual protection throughout the day.

Never spray lightening agents or put lemon juice in your hair.

Support your style with a perm. Just because you have color treated hair doesn't mean you can't have a perm. In fact, a perm specially formulated for color treated hair can add wonderful body, fullness and lots of texture to complement your color.

Always your best source, your Strands stylist can answer any other questions you might have and recommend professional products ideal for color-treated hair.