Highlights vs Single Process vs Double Process Hair Color

Q: What is the difference between single process and double process hair color?

The single process hair color involves one-step coloring. It is used for gray coverage and root touch-ups. On the other hand, the double process hair color is a two-step technique that includes bleaching followed by dyeing.

Q: How long does single process hair color last?

Single process hair color may require touch-ups every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on hair porosity and the product used.

Q: Is double process hair color a lengthy process?

Yes, double process hair color is a more lengthy process than highlights and single process. It may stretch somewhere between 3 to 6 hours.

By Upasana KakatiJun 20, 2024 6 min read

Highlights

Single process hair color

Double process hair color

At-home color care

FAQs

References

One of the most popular hair care services on the rise is coloring. It’s fun to change your hair color every 6-8 months, thanks to the ever-changing trends. But once you enter the salon to have a discussion with your stylist, it suddenly becomes vast and complex. Several confusing terms pop out, making it tough for you to decide. Here’s a brief guide on standard coloring techniques — highlights, single-process, and double process hair color, so you can go for your next salon appointment well prepared.

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As the name suggests, a single process hair color can be achieved in a single step. According to Master Colorist Stephanie Brown, “Single processes give you an all-over one color with little or no dimension. You may get slight variations of color if you use semi-permanent [hair color].” The double process hair color involves bleaching followed by dyeing. It is a more precision-based process that aims to transform the existing color dramatically. On the other hand, highlights include coloring a few strands a shade or two lighter than the base color. It’s like adding streaks to the mane.

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##	Hair color highlights	Single process hair color	Double process hair color
What is it	Lightening specific strands of hair	Applying a single color all over the mane	Involves two steps: lightening the hair and then applying color
Ideal for	Adding dimension, creating a sun-kissed look or subtle change	Covering gray hair, touching up roots, and adding shine	Drastic color change, like going from dark to a very light or vibrant shade
Time required	1.5-3 hours	1-1.5 hours	3-6 hours
Hair damage	Moderate, depending on lightener and aftercare	Minimal to moderate, depending on the color product	High due to the bleaching process
Techniques used	Foiling, balayage, babylights, and ombre	Application of color using a brush	Bleaching followed by toning or coloring
Maintenance	Requires touch-up every 6 to 8 weeks, less noticeable as it grows out	Requires touch-up every 4 to 6 weeks, more noticeable as it grows out	Requires touch-ups every 4 to 6 weeks for roots and color maintenance
Upkeep between appointments	Use color-protect shampoo and avoid excessive heat styling	Use color-refreshing products like gloss and conditioner	Use sulfate-free, color-protect shampoo and opt for deep conditioning treatments
Effect on different hair types	Works well on all hair types, especially for adding depth and dimension	Effective on all hair types for 100% gray coverage	Works on all hair types, but bleaching can be harsh on damaged strands
Color fade	Fades gradually, especially with sun exposure and excessive hair washing	Fades uniformly, depending on hair porosity and color product	Toned color can fade, revealing the underlying lightened hair

Highlights

Hair color highlights are probably on everybody’s checklist! This all-time favorite technique adds a new dimension to the mane without bleaching or full coloring. It is a flattering choice for anyone and everyone, especially if your hair has few layers. With highlights, your colorist may prefer using more than one color to create a gradient effect. It is ideal for those who want a multi-dimensional look that is easy to maintain. Simply put, highlights are hair strands dyed in a lighter hue than the base color. Below are the common types you can choose from.

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Traditional: Also known as foiling, this coloring technique involves lightening the strands from the root to the tip, leaving some natural hair in between.
Babylights: These lightened tresses are more subtle and nuanced than traditional highlights. They give a natural and dimensional look, imitating the color of children’s hair.
Balayage: A staple for gorgeous hair, this technique uses a free-hand painting process. It boasts a gradation of deeper to lighter tints from roots to tips.
Ombre: Blending one tinge into another or existing hair color gives an ombre effect. It is usually characterized by moving hues from dark to light.
Chunky: This is one of the hottest highlights, featuring thick streaks of bold colors like magenta and auburn. The chunky style gives an edgy finish with contrasting tints that pop out beautifully.

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Single process hair color

This technique is apt for anyone who wants to add a hint of color in a simple, fuss-free way. The single process hair color is most commonly used for root touch-ups and gray coverage. All you need to do is mix the coloring cream with a developer, apply it to the desired area, and then rinse. It is a one-step method that requires no prior coloring experience. It works well for those who wish to embrace their existing hair color. You can even color your strands at home using the Moehair Permanent Hair Coloring Kit. The single process technique is best for you if:

You have short hair that can’t be easily highlighted.
You want to cover gray areas or touch up freshly grown roots
You don’t wish to change the existing hair color dramatically
You want to go 1-2 shades darker or lighter than the natural hair color.

Double process hair color

It refers to a two-step service that generally involves pre-lightening before color deposition. It allows for a significant and precise color change. Double process hair color can also use permanent dye followed by a gloss, depending on the desired result. It is a lengthy process in comparison with single process and highlights. Hairstylist Beau Dieda told PopSugar, “The first step usually involves lightening or bleaching the hair to remove the natural color. The second step involves applying the desired color to toner over the pre-lightened hair.” The double process is categorized into the following:

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Bleaching + dyeing: It is the most prevalent type of hair coloring service, which involves pre-lightening for a rich color deposit. As bleach removes the natural pigment, it creates a blank canvas for the new hue.
Bleaching + highlighting: If you’re drooling over blonde shades, this one's for you. It is the process of bleaching hair, followed by highlighting a few strands.
Dyeing + glossing: Most of you expect salon treatment to go the extra mile and add a glossy shine to the mane. A glossing session after coloring does that for you in no time.
Dyeing + highlighting: Dyeing with highlighting is like painting the canvas and adding drops of your favorite tinge from top to bottom.

At-home color care

Colored hair requires at-home care, no matter what coloring technique you use. It is always a better option than watching your hues fade away too soon. Whether you’ve colored your entire crown using single process hair color or just highlighted a couple of strands, some things need to be kept in mind between salon appointments.

Color-safe products only

Your colored strands are prone to fading, dryness, and damage. This is because coloring techniques, especially double process hair color, strip nutrients and moisture from the mane. It is best to use only color-safe products free of sulfate and other harmful chemicals.

Deep conditioning therapy

Opt for deep conditioning hair masks and conditioners for regular nourishment. They help replenish lost moisture and treat color-induced damage from root to tip, leaving soft, smooth tresses. A thorough deep conditioning therapy once a week takes care of shine and overall texture.

Tone down the brass

Hues like blonde and silver may develop ugly undertones. This mainly happens due to exposure to the sun and excessive hair washing. Bust the brass and other warm tones with the help of a hair toner. It deposits color pigments on the strands to neutralize brassiness and prevent color fading.

Also Read - A Guide To Hair Toner

Sprinkle gloss and shine

Even after using proven coloring methods like double process hair color, your tresses can lose their shine with time. This calls for an at-home glossing session. You can use gloss or glaze to refresh and adjust your hair color.

Do not overwash

Wash your hair only 1-2 times a week. Consider using a shower filter to protect colored strands from contaminants and minerals in water. Chlorine and minerals like copper and iron can damage hair color and cause dryness, but a shower filter can help maintain vibrant and healthy hair.

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FAQs

Q1. How long do highlights last?

Hair color highlights can last up to 3 months, depending on hair porosity and the product used.

Q2. What is the difference between single process and double process hair color?

The single process hair color involves one-step coloring. It is used for gray coverage and root touch-ups. On the other hand, the double process hair color is a two-step technique that includes bleaching followed by dyeing.

Q3. How to maintain hair color highlights at home?

Highlights may require touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks. To maintain their shine and vibrancy between salon appointments, choose color-safe shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. Do not overwash your colored tresses, and skip hot tools.

Q4. How long does single process hair color last?

Single process hair color may require touch-ups every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on hair porosity and the product used.

Q5. Is double process hair color a lengthy process?

Yes, double process hair color is a more lengthy process than highlights and single process. It may stretch somewhere between 3 to 6 hours.