The Underlights Hair Trend Is All About an Unexpected Pop of Color

If you love peek-a-boo hair, then there’s a new hair color trend that’s bound to have you giving heart-eyes: underlights! This colorful technique is the perfect way to switch up your mane without too much commitment (more on that later). Read on to learn what the underlights hair trend is and how you can try it for yourself, plus a few hairstyle ideas for showing off your new hue.

WHAT ARE UNDERLIGHTS?

We hinted at underlights being a form of peek-a-boo hair, but what exactly do they entail? Underlights involve highlighting the bottom layer of your mane with an array of vibrant, colorful hues. This leaves the top section of your mane its natural color, keeping your colorful strands hidden from the eye until you want them to be seen. This is an ideal option for those who want to experiment with their hair, but still want a look that’s work appropriate. The best part? Underlights are totally customizable, as they can be created with any colors you like.

HOW TO GET UNDERLIGHTS

If you want to rock the underlight hair trend, it’s important to consider your starting color. Since the goal is to have vibrant, saturated strands on the underside of your mane, using bleach may be necessary if your starting color is dark. That being said, depending on just how dark your hair is, you may want to turn to the pros for getting underlights. A pro will be able to minimize damage and make sure your highlighted locks turn out amazing. Before heading to the salon, be sure to save plenty of inspiration photos to Pinterest!

HOW TO DIY UNDERLIGHTS

More of a DIY gal? You can easily give yourself some at-home underlights—with the help of temporary hair color, that is. Take your pick from the shades in the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray and L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color lines, then color away. Both lines wash out in just one shampoo, making them the perfect low-commitment option if you’re looking to test the waters with this trend.

3 HAIRSTYLES FOR SHOWING OFF YOUR UNDERLIGHTS

If you decide underlights are the look for you, we’re sure you’ll want ways to put your trendy new hair color on display, no? Below, find three hairstyles that are perfect for showing off your colorful secret.

HAIRSTYLE IDEA #1: PARTY PONY

One of the most popular ways to show off underlights is to put your hair half up. We’re fans of the party pony hairstyle in particular. To get the look, part your hair from the top of one ear to the top of the other, creating a top and bottom section. Smooth the top section into a small ponytail at the top of your head. Secure with a clear elastic and party on!

HAIRSTYLE IDEA #2: DUTCH BRAID

A braid is another great option for putting your underlights on display. Give a Dutch braid a try. This inverted braid will look even more beautiful with pops of color weaved throughout! Not sure how to create a Dutch braid? We’ve got you covered. Here’s How to Dutch Braid Your Hair.

HAIRSTYLE IDEA #3: MESSY BUN

Last but not least, if you want to put your underlights on full display, consider sweeping your strands into a carefree, messy bun sitting at the top of your head. This is a great hairstyle for running errands or heading to brunch with your girlfriends. To create the perfect messy bun, gather the length of your mane, twist, and secure with a clear elastic. Gently tug at the ends of your bun to add volume and a touch more messiness. If you have a few stray hairs sticking out of place, don’t fret. Embrace them along with your messy bun or pin them back into place with the help of a couple of bobby pins!

Next up: Want a colorful hair hue to show off 24/7? Here are 21 Pretty Hair Colors to Makeover Your Mane with in 2020.