How Long Does It Take to Get Highlights? Understanding the Full Foil Process

If you’re considering getting highlights, you might asking yourself, “How long does it take to get highlights?”

It’s a common question, and the answer depends on several factors.

Hair highlighting is a meticulous process that requires patience and careful execution to achieve the hair color outcome.

Scott Farmer Hair Salon offers services for both short and longer hair.

We provide expert highlights that keep your hair vibrant and healthy.

Let’s break down what you can expect from your appointment, including how long it takes to get your highlights done.

Discover the time investment required for stunning highlights at Scott Farmer Hair Salon. Learn about factors affecting duration, types of highlights, and expert tips for maintaining your new look.

Key Takeaways

  • Highlights typically take 2 to 4 hours, depending on hair length, thickness, and technique.
  • Full highlights usually require 2 to 3 hours, including consultation, application, processing, and styling.
  • Hair type, color, and desired outcome influence the time needed for highlighting.
  • Regular touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks help maintain vibrant, fresh-looking highlights.
  • Proper aftercare with color-safe products is crucial for long-lasting results.

How long does it take to do highlights at a salon?

On average, getting highlights at a salon takes between 2 to 4 hours. The exact duration depends on several factors, including hair length, thickness, the type of highlights (full or partial), and the desired outcome.

Full highlights typically take 2 to 3 hours, while partial highlights may be quicker. The process involves consultation, sectioning, foil application, processing time, and final styling.

For the most accurate estimate, consult your stylist during a pre-appointment consultation.

What Are Highlights?

Highlights are a popular hair coloring technique that adds dimension, texture, and visual interest to natural hair color.

Highlights create a multidimensional look by applying a lighter shade of hair color to specific sections of hair.

They enhance natural color, add volume, and give a sun-kissed appearance.

This versatile technique can be customized to suit your hair type, face shape, and personal style, making it a favored choice for those looking to update their hair with a fresh, vibrant look.

Hair Color Foil

How Long Does It Take For Hair Highlights?

Generally, getting highlights can take 2 to 4 hours. The duration varies depending on the type of highlights, hair length, and thickness.

Consulting a professional stylist can provide a more accurate estimate of the time required for highlights.

We strive to ensure your comfortable and efficient experience at Scott Farmer Hair Salon.

While waiting for your perfect color, you’ll enjoy a relaxing environment and personalized care.

All Over Blonde Highlights

What Factors Influence the Time It Takes for Highlights?

Several factors can affect the time needed for highlights:

How Long Does a Full Highlight Appointment Usually Last?

A full highlight typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes applying the foils, processing time, and finishing with a blow-dry or style.

The highlights process includes several steps such as consultation, sectioning, applying foils, and processing time.

At Scott Farmer Hair Salon, our professional stylists work efficiently to achieve the best results without cutting corners.

Full Head Balayage

Does Hair Type Affect How Long Highlights Take?

Yes, hair type plays a role in the duration.

Curly or textured hair may require more time to apply foils properly, as the stylist needs to ensure the hair is evenly separated for color application.

Additionally, transitioning from dark brown hair to lighter shades can require multiple processes and additional time.

What is the Highlighting Process?

The process of getting highlights involves several key steps. The highlights process includes consultation, sectioning, applying foils, and processing.

At Scott Farmer Hair Salon, we take pride in providing a smooth and enjoyable experience:

  1. Consultation: This is where you discuss your goals with your stylist. Do you want a subtle change or something more striking?
  2. Sectioning the Hair: The stylist separates your hair into sections to apply the foils.
  3. Applying the Foils: This step takes time, as each foil is carefully placed to ensure even color distribution.
  4. Processing: After applying all the foils, the color needs time to develop. Depending on the desired result, this can take 30 to 45 minutes.
Full Head Blonde Highlights
Partial Foil Blonde Highlights

Consultation and Preparation

Before getting highlights, it’s essential to consult with a professional stylist to determine the best highlighting technique for your hair type, natural color, and desired outcome.

During the consultation, your stylist will examine your hair, discuss your options, and recommend a highlighting technique that suits your needs.

To prepare for the highlighting process, it is recommended that you arrive with freshly washed hair and a clear idea of what you want to achieve. 

This preparation ensures that the color penetrates evenly and that you and your stylist agree on your hair goals.

Hair Highlighting Process

Sectioning and Applying Highlights

The highlighting process typically begins with sectioning your hair into smaller sections, depending on the highlighting technique chosen.

For a full head of highlights and foil highlights, your stylist will weave sections of hair together and take alternative strands from each section before laying them over the foil. 

The color is then applied using a brush, and the foil is folded to prevent the color from drying.

For other highlighting techniques, such as balayage or ombre, your stylist will apply the color in a sweeping motion, using a lightener or hair color to create a natural-looking effect.

Each method is designed to achieve a specific look, whether a subtle gradient or a more defined contrast.

Processing and Timing

The processing time for highlights can vary depending on the highlighting technique, hair length, and thickness.

The processing time for foil highlights can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the length and thickness of the hair.

Depending on the desired outcome, the processing time may be shorter or longer for other highlighting techniques.

To ensure the best results, follow your stylist’s instructions and wait for the recommended time to process.

After the processing time is complete, your stylist will rinse out the color, leaving you with beautiful, multidimensional highlights that enhance your natural hair color.

How Do Foils Work in the Highlighting Technique?

Foils are used to isolate sections of hair during the coloring process.

This helps control how much of your natural hair color is left visible, resulting in a more customized look.

Foils also trap heat, speeding up the processing time and ensuring a brighter, more vibrant result.

How To Do Foil Highlights

What Should I Expect During My Hair Appointment?

At Scott Farmer Hair Salon, your comfort is our priority.

From the moment you walk in, you’ll receive personalized attention.

Our stylists will guide you through every step of the process and answer any questions.

You can sit back, relax, and maybe enjoy coffee while we transform your hair.

What Are the Different Types of Highlights?

Not all highlights are created equal.

Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your look.

  • Full Foil Highlights: This covers the entire head, offering a dramatic change.
  • Partial Foils: Focuses on the top and sides, giving a more natural, sun-kissed effect.
  • Balayage: A freehand painting technique that creates a soft, graduated effect with less maintenance required between appointments.

Do Highlights Take Longer for Certain Hair Types?

Yes, hair that is curly or textured may take longer for the stylist to handle when applying foils.

Similarly, coarse hair can be trickier, sometimes requiring more processing time.

How To Highlight Hair With Foils

How Does Hair Length Affect the Time It Takes for Highlights?

The longer your hair, the more time it takes to apply foils and color each section evenly.

For longer hair, expect your highlight session to be on the longer side of the range, around 3 to 4 hours.

Do Dark Hair and Blonde Hair Process Differently with Highlights?

Dark hair typically takes longer to lift to the desired shade, mainly if you aim for lighter highlights.

Blonde hair can sometimes process quicker but might require toner to get the perfect hue.

What Role Does Hair Thickness Play in the Highlighting Process?

Thicker hair naturally requires more foils and products. It also takes longer to ensure every strand is covered.

Our Scott Farmer Hair Salon stylists know how to handle all hair types efficiently, so you’re in good hands.

Different Types Of Highlights For Hair

How Can I Keep My Highlights Looking Fresh?

Maintaining your highlights between visits is crucial to keeping them looking bright and healthy.

How Often Should I Schedule a Touch-Up Appointment?

For best results, we recommend scheduling a touch-up every 6 to 8 weeks.

This helps maintain your color’s vibrancy and keeps your roots looking fresh.

Hair Highlights Guide

What Products Should I Use to Protect My Highlights?

At Scott Farmer Hair Salon, we suggest using professional-grade hair care products.

Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed to extend the life of your color.

Hair Highlight Tutorial

What Should I Consider Before Getting Highlights?

Before your appointment, think about the look you want to achieve.

Are you going for a bold change or something more subtle?

It’s also a good idea to consider your maintenance routine.

Some highlights require more upkeep than others.

How Do I Choose the Right Stylist for My Highlights?

It’s essential to pick a stylist with experience in color treatments.

Scott Farmer is highly trained in the latest highlighting techniques.

We’ll guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible result.

What Should I Discuss with My Stylist Before the Appointment?

During your consultation, share your hair goals with your stylist.

Be honest about the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with and any concerns you may have about the process.

Professional Hair Highlighting

How Can I Prepare My Hair for the Highlighting Process?

We recommend washing your hair the night before with a clarifying shampoo to prepare for your appointment.

This helps remove any product buildup, ensuring the color penetrates evenly.


At Scott Farmer Hair Salon, we take the guesswork out of getting highlights.

From the consultation to the final look, our team of skilled professionals makes sure you leave feeling your best.

Ready for a new look? Book your appointment today and experience the difference expert highlights can make!

HAIR SALON SERVICE AREA

Sarasota County residents should look no further than Scott Farmer Hair Salon when searching for quality hair services near me.

You can rest assured that each styling session is backed by years of experience and professional care.

Treatments are tailored to suit your style and meet the highest standards.

So don’t wait any longer – make sure your next visit to the salon is taken care of right here at Scott Farmer Hair Salon.

Click here for more information about areas we serve in Sarasota County.

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