So maybe you’ve just cracked your Bikini from your Brazilian (before the wax was applied, I hope), but there’s a new term in town, and it’s worth getting to know. Strandlighting is the trend you’ve no-doubt been double-tapping on your Instagram feed without even knowing it, and the *au naturel* way to colour hair. It’s the newbie technique for effortless, sun-kissed colour that you’ve been trying to achieve since slathering on the Sun In years ago (praise be). So, what’s the deal?
By Rachel Spedding
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1 What is strandlighting?
The delicate dyeing technique colours fewer, spaced-out strands with foils for a more natural look. Think of Eva Mendes, Rosie HW, Jennifer Lawrence in X Men, Blake Lively in… everyday life (that woman). Their subtle blend of colour is courtesy of strandlighting – brightening blonde and brunette shades one fine slice of hair at a time.
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2 How’s it done?
Strandlighting differs slightly to balayage and fallayage (the autumn version of balayage, FYI), as it requires a lot less bleach, and blends freehand and foil colouring application. To achieve the look, your stylist will apply colour to strands of hair from the root, to the ends, before wrapping up in foil. The result? This. Enough said.
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3 Why’s it a good idea?
The technique provides a much better blend of colour and will reduce the sight of regrowth. More natural colour, and more time sans roots? Ideal. It works a treat on both blonde and brunette hair, and requires less bleaching, meaning healthier locks all round. There’ll be no horizontal grow out, or Victoria Beckam 2000-2008 hair with this technique – hurrah.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What is strandlighting and how does it work?
Strandlighting is a delicate hair dyeing technique that colours only a few, spaced-out strands, giving a more natural, sun-kissed look. Your stylist applies colour from the root to the ends of selected strands and wraps them in foil. This approach creates subtle highlights for both blonde and brunette hair.
How is strandlighting different from balayage or fallayage?
Strandlighting uses much less bleach than balayage or fallayage and combines freehand colour application with foil. This method focuses on fewer strands for a more natural effect and healthier hair. It results in softer, more blended colour transitions without harsh lines.
Why should you choose strandlighting for your hair?
Strandlighting helps to achieve a natural-looking colour blend and reduces the visibility of regrowth. Since it requires less bleaching, your hair stays healthier. This technique avoids harsh horizontal lines and is effective on both blonde and brunette shades.
Which celebrities have popular strandlighting looks?
Celebrities like Eva Mendes, Rosie HW, Jennifer Lawrence in X Men, and Blake Lively are known for their strandlighting hair. Their subtle, sun-kissed highlights make them reference points for this trending technique.
Can you book a strandlighting appointment online with Treatwell?
Yes, you can easily book strandlighting treatments online at your favourite salons through Treatwell. The booking process is simple, hassle-free and can be done on the go, letting you find salons offering this trend in your area.