The chunky highlights of the ’90s are back with a fresh, new look – peekaboo highlights. Instead of chunky blonde streaks running through the top layers of your hair, peekaboo highlights are hidden underneath, so that when you push back the top layer of your hair, you reveal a splash of contrasting color. You can choose to dye the entire underside of your hair, or just a few strands here and there, depending on how bold you are feeling. In this article, we’ll show you how to dye the underneath of your hair at home, with step-by-step instructions and some helpful tips.
Before you start, it’s important to choose the right color for your peekaboo highlights. If you have dark hair, you’ll need to bleach the underside of your hair before you can apply the color. However, if you have light hair, you can skip the bleaching step. Once you’ve chosen your color, gather your supplies. You’ll need:
- Hair dye
- Developer
- Mixing bowl
- Applicator brush
- Gloves
- Petroleum jelly
- Old towel
Define Underneath Hair
Underneath hair is a term used to describe the hair that is hidden beneath the top layer of hair. It is typically darker and less visible than the top layer of hair, and it can be difficult to style or dye. However, with the right techniques, it is possible to dye underneath hair and create a unique and eye-catching look.
There are a few different ways to dye underneath hair. One method is to use a bleach kit. This will lighten the underneath hair, making it easier to apply color. Another method is to use a permanent hair dye. This will give the underneath hair a more permanent color, but it can be more damaging than bleach.
No matter which method you choose, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. Dying underneath hair can be a complex process, and it is easy to make mistakes. If you are not sure how to do it yourself, it is best to consult with a professional hair stylist.
Choosing the Right Color
When choosing a color for your underneath hair, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider your skin tone and eye color. Certain colors will look better on certain skin tones, and you want to choose a color that will complement your natural features. Second, think about the overall look you are trying to achieve. Do you want a subtle look or a more dramatic look? Finally, consider the maintenance required for the color you choose. Some colors will require more frequent touch-ups than others.
Here are a few popular color choices for underneath hair:
| Color | Skin Tones | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Blonde | Fair to medium | High |
| Red | Warm to neutral | Medium |
| Blue | Cool | Low |
| Green | Neutral to warm | Medium |
| Purple | Cool to neutral | High |
Gather Necessary Materials
Hair Dye
Choose a hair dye that is specifically designed for under-dyeing. These dyes are typically more pigmented and longer-lasting than regular hair dyes when applied to the underside of hair.
Developer
Developer is a chemical that activates the hair dye and allows it to penetrate the hair shaft. Choose a developer that is appropriate for the type of hair dye you are using and your hair’s thickness and porosity.
Mixing Bowl and Brush
Use a non-metallic mixing bowl to mix the hair dye and developer. A color brush will help you apply the dye evenly and precisely.
Gloves
Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from the hair dye and developer.
Old Clothes
Wear old clothes or a smock to avoid staining your clothes with the hair dye.
Petroleum Jelly
Apply petroleum jelly around the hairline and ears to protect your skin from the hair dye.
Styling Tools
Use clips or hair ties to section your hair and keep it out of the way while you dye it.
Aftercare Products
Use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain the vibrancy of your under-dye and extend its lifespan.
Prepare Your Hair
Before you start dyeing, it’s important to prepare your hair so that it takes the color evenly and doesn’t get damaged.
Choose the right dye
There are many different types of hair dye available, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your hair type and the color you want to achieve. If you’re not sure what type of dye to use, consult with a professional hair stylist.
Do a strand test
Before you apply the dye to your entire head, do a strand test on a small section of hair. This will help you to make sure that the dye is the right color and that it doesn’t cause any allergic reactions.
Wash and dry your hair
Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo and then towel dry it. Don’t use any conditioner or styling products, as these can interfere with the dyeing process.
Section your hair
Divide your hair into four sections: two at the front and two at the back. This will make it easier to apply the dye evenly.
Apply the dye
Start by applying the dye to the roots of your hair. Then, work your way down the hair shaft, applying the dye evenly from root to tip. Be sure to saturate your hair completely with the dye.
Process the dye
Leave the dye on your hair for the amount of time specified on the instructions. The processing time will vary depending on the type of dye you’re using.
Rinse and condition your hair
Once the processing time is complete, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Then, apply a conditioner to your hair and leave it in for a few minutes. Rinse your hair again and then style it as usual.
Section Your Hair for Dying
Prepare Your Hair
Start by dividing your hair into four sections, as shown in the table below. This will make it easier to dye the underneath sections without accidentally getting dye on the top.
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Top | Tie the top section of hair into a high ponytail or bun. |
| Sides | Divide the sides into two sections, one on each side of the head. Tie each section into a low ponytail. |
| Back | Divide the back into two sections, one at the nape of the neck and one at the crown of the head. Tie each section into a low ponytail. |
| Underneath | Leave the underneath section of hair loose. This is the section you will be dyeing. |
Apply the Dye
Once your hair is sectioned, apply the dye to the underneath section only. Avoid getting dye on the other sections, as this can cause uneven coloring.
Process the Dye
Follow the instructions on the dye box for the processing time. Once the dye has processed, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
Style Your Hair
Once your hair is dyed, you can style it as desired. You can leave it down, put it up in a ponytail or bun, or create any other style you like.
Apply Dye to Underneath Hair
Section Highlights
To dye the hair underneath, a few steps need to be taken. You’ll need to separate the top layer of hair from the bottom, apply bleach to the bottom layer, and then dye the hair. You’ll need to rinse the hair and condition it after dying it.
Materials
Gather the supplies you will need before starting:
|
Quantity |
Item |
|---|---|
|
1 |
Hair dye |
|
1 |
Bowl |
|
1 |
Brush |
|
1 |
Gloves |
Steps
Procedure Steps:
1. Separate top layer of hair
Part your hair into two sections, separating the top layer from the bottom. Separate the top section with a hair clip. The bottom layer is the hair you will be dyeing.
2. Apply bleach to bottom layer
Mix the bleach according to the package directions. Apply the bleach to the bottom layer of hair, avoiding the roots. Leave the bleach on for the amount of time specified in the package directions.
3. Rinse hair
Rinse the bleach out of your hair with cool water. Apply some conditioner to your hair and leave it in for a few minutes. Rinse your hair again and towel dry it.
4. Apply dye to hair
Mix the dye according to the package directions. Apply the dye to the bottom layer of hair, avoiding the roots. Leave the dye on for the amount of time specified in the package directions.
5. Rinse hair and condition
Rinse the dye out of your hair with cool water. Apply some conditioner to your hair and leave it in for a few minutes. Rinse your hair again and style as desired.
Conditioner is essential for dyed hair, as it helps to keep the hair hydrated and healthy. Leave-in conditioners are especially effective for dyed hair, as they provide continuous hydration and protection.
Process and Rinse the Dye
Prepare The Hair
Brush your hair to remove any tangles. Part your hair down the middle, creating a clean line from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Use hair clips to secure the top section of your hair out of the way.
Apply The Dye
Put on the gloves provided in the hair dye kit. Apply the dye to the underside of your hair, starting at the roots. Use a brush to apply the dye evenly, making sure to saturate all of the strands. Avoid getting the dye on your scalp.
Process The Dye
Leave the dye in for the amount of time specified in the instructions. The processing time will vary depending on the type of hair dye you are using. Check the instructions carefully to ensure you do not over-process the hair.
Rinse The Dye
Once the dye has processed, rinse it out thoroughly using warm water. Make sure to rinse all of the dye out of your hair. When the water runs clear, you can stop rinsing.
Condition The Hair
After rinsing out the dye, apply a conditioner to your hair. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes, then rinse it out.
Style The Hair
Once your hair is dry, you can style it as usual. Your hair color is now changed. Enjoy your new look!
| Processing Time | Hair Type |
|---|---|
| 15-20 minutes | Fine or color-treated hair |
| 20-25 minutes | Normal hair |
| 25-30 minutes | Thick or coarse hair |
Tone and Condition Your Hair
Tone Your Hair
If you have brown or black hair, you may want to tone it before dyeing it. Toning will help to lighten your hair and make the color more even. You can use a toner that is specifically designed for dark hair, or you can use a regular toner and leave it on for a shorter amount of time.
To tone your hair, start by washing and drying it. Then, apply the toner to your hair and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the package. Once the toner has been on for the allotted time, rinse it out and style your hair as usual.
Condition Your Hair
After you have toned your hair, it is important to condition it. Conditioning will help to keep your hair healthy and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle. You can use a regular conditioner or a deep conditioner. If you are using a deep conditioner, leave it on for the amount of time specified on the package.
Once the conditioner has been on for the allotted time, rinse it out and style your hair as usual.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips for dyeing underneath hair:
- Use a color that is a few shades lighter than your natural hair color.
- Apply the dye to the underside of your hair only.
- Leave the dye on for the amount of time specified on the package.
- Rinse the dye out and style your hair as usual.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash and dry your hair. |
| 2 | Apply the toner to your hair. |
| 3 | Let the toner sit for the amount of time specified on the package. |
| 4 | Rinse the toner out. |
| 5 | Condition your hair. |
| 6 | Let the conditioner sit for the amount of time specified on the package. |
| 7 | Rinse the conditioner out and style your hair as usual. |
Style and Maintain Dyed Underneath Hair
Choosing the Right Style
Decide if you want subtle highlights or a bold contrast. Consider your natural hair color and the desired effect.
Professional Dyeing
Seek professional assistance at a salon for precise coloring and blending. They can help create a customized look.
DIY Dyeing
If you’re confident with hair dyeing, you can attempt it at home. Use high-quality products and follow the instructions carefully.
Color Placement
Determine the area you want to dye underneath. You can dye the entire underside or just a portion.
Sectioning and Applying
Section your hair and apply the dye to the desired areas. Use foil or a plastic cap to isolate the dyed sections.
Processing Time
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended processing time. Check the hair periodically to monitor the color development.
Rinsing and Conditioning
Rinse the dye thoroughly and apply a deep conditioner to nourish and protect your hair.
Maintenance
Regular Washing
Wash your hair less frequently to prevent color fading. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
Trimming
Trim your hair regularly to get rid of split ends and prevent breakage.
Products
Use hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and heat protectants to maintain the vibrancy and health of your hair.
Color Touch-ups
Touch up the color every 4-6 weeks to refresh the vibrancy and maintain the desired contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Sectioning the Hair
Failing to section your hair properly can lead to uneven coloring and missed spots. Use hair clips or colored elastics to divide your hair into manageable sections.
2. Applying the Dye Too Thickly
Overloading your hair with dye can result in darker, more intense colors than intended. Apply the dye in thin, even layers to avoid saturation.
3. Leaving the Dye On for Too Long
Exceeding the recommended processing time can damage your hair and compromise the desired color outcome. Always follow the instructions on the dye package.
4. Not Saturating the Hair Completely
If the dye is not applied thoroughly, the color may not penetrate the hair shafts evenly, leaving you with uneven or faded results.
5. Using the Wrong Developer
Choosing an incorrect developer strength can affect the intensity and longevity of the color. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with a hair professional.
6. Not Touching Up the Roots
As your hair grows, your roots will become noticeable. Touch up the roots regularly to maintain a consistent color throughout your hair.
7. Overlapping the Dye Sections
When applying dye to adjacent sections, avoid overlapping the areas. This can result in darker lines or spots where the dye has been applied multiple times.
8. Not Moisturizing After Dyeing
Dyeing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and damaged. Use a deep conditioner or moisturizing mask after dyeing to restore its health and prevent breakage.
9. Using Metal Tools
Metal tools, such as hair clips or bowls, can react with the dye and alter its color. Use plastic or ceramic tools instead to avoid undesirable chemical reactions.
| Mistake | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Not using a developer | The color may not lift or be as vibrant |
| Using expired dye | The color may not develop properly or at all |
| Applying dye to wet hair | The color may not penetrate the hair shaft |
| Using clarifying shampoo | The color may fade more quickly |
| Brushing or combing hair during the development process | The color may become uneven |
| Dyeing hair that has been recently bleached | The hair may be more susceptible to damage |
| Using too much hairspray | The color may become dull or faded |
| Not wearing gloves | The dye may irritate the skin |
What is Underneath Hair Dye?
Underneath hair dye is a fun and creative way to add a pop of color to your hair without having to dye your whole head. It’s perfect for people who want to experiment with color without making a major commitment.
How to Dye Underneath Hair
To dye underneath hair, you will need:
- Hair dye in the color of your choice
- A mixing bowl and brush
- Gloves
- A towel to protect your clothes
Instructions:
- Put on gloves and protect your clothes with a towel.
- Mix the hair dye according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Section off the top layer of your hair and clip it up.
- Apply the hair dye to the underneath layer of your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends.
- Leave the hair dye in for the amount of time specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rinse the hair dye out with cool water until the water runs clear.
- Condition your hair and style as usual.
Creative Ideas for Underneath Hair Dye
1. Rainbow Underneath
This is a fun and colorful way to add a pop of color to your hair. To create a rainbow underneath, you will need to use several different colors of hair dye. Start by applying the darkest color to the roots of your hair, and then work your way up to the lightest color at the ends. You can blend the colors together to create a smooth transition, or you can leave them separate for a more dramatic look.
2. Ombre Underneath
Ombre underneath hair is a great way to add depth and dimension to your hair. To create ombre underneath, you will need to use two different colors of hair dye. Start by applying the darker color to the roots of your hair, and then gradually blend it into the lighter color at the ends. You can adjust the intensity of the ombre by using more or less of the darker color.
3. Peekaboo Underneath
Peekaboo underneath hair is a subtle way to add a pop of color to your hair. To create peekaboo underneath, you will need to use a color that is similar to your natural hair color. Apply the color to the underneath layer of your hair, and then style your hair as usual. When you wear your hair up, the peekaboo color will be visible, but when you wear your hair down, it will be hidden.
4. Stenciled Underneath
You can use stencils to create fun and unique designs on your underneath hair. To stencil underneath hair, you will need to use a stencil that is made of a thin material, such as plastic or vinyl. Apply the stencil to the underneath layer of your hair, and then use a brush to apply the hair dye. Once the hair dye has been applied, remove the stencil and style your hair as usual.
5. Striped Underneath
Striped underneath hair is a cool and edgy way to add a pop of color to your hair. To create striped underneath, you will need to use several different colors of hair dye. Use a comb to section off the underneath layer of your hair, and then apply the hair dye to each section. You can use different colors for each section, or you can use the same color for all of the sections.
6. Checkerboard Underneath
Checkerboard underneath hair is a fun and funky way to add a pop of color to your hair. To create checkerboard underneath, you will need to use two different colors of hair dye. Use a comb to section off the underneath layer of your hair into small squares, and then apply the hair dye to each square. You can alternate the colors of the squares, or you can use the same color for all of the squares.
7. Animal Print Underneath
Animal print underneath hair is a wild and exotic way to add a pop of color to your hair. To create animal print underneath, you will need to use several different colors of hair dye. Use a brush to apply the hair dye to the underneath layer of your hair in a pattern that resembles animal print.
8. Geometric Underneath
Geometric underneath hair is a modern and stylish way to add a pop of color to your hair. To create geometric underneath, you will need to use several different colors of hair dye. Use a comb to section off the underneath layer of your hair into geometric shapes, and then apply the hair dye to each shape. You can use different colors for each shape, or you can use the same color for all of the shapes.
How to Dye Underneath Hair
Dyeing just the underneath layer of your hair is a great way to add some extra color and dimension without having to commit to a full head color change. It can be a bit tricky to do yourself, but it’s definitely possible with a little patience and the right technique.
To dye the underneath layer of your hair, you’ll need:
- Hair dye in the desired color
- Developer
- Mixing bowl and brush
- Gloves
- Sectioning clips
- Wide-tooth comb
- Paper towels
Once you have all of your supplies, you can get started with the dyeing process.
Step 1: Prepare your hair
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo. This will help to remove any dirt or oil that could prevent the dye from adhering to your hair. Don’t condition your hair, as this can also create a barrier between the dye and your hair.
Step 2: Section your hair
Once your hair is dry, section it into four equal parts using sectioning clips. This will make it easier to work with the dye.
Step 3: Mix the dye
In a mixing bowl, combine the hair dye and developer according to the package instructions. Be sure to mix the dye thoroughly until it is smooth and consistent.
Step 4: Apply the dye
Starting at the back of your head, use a brush to apply the dye to the underneath layer of your hair. Be sure to work the dye through your hair evenly, from roots to ends. Avoid getting the dye on your scalp.
Step 5: Process the dye
Once you have applied the dye, cover your hair with a plastic cap and let it process for the amount of time specified in the package instructions. This is usually around 30 minutes.
Step 6: Rinse the dye
After the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Be sure to massage the dye out of your hair gently.
Step 7: Condition your hair
Once you have rinsed the dye out of your hair, condition it as usual. This will help to keep your hair healthy and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.
People also ask
Can you dye only the underneath of your hair?
Yes, you can dye only the underneath layer of your hair. This is a great way to add some extra color and dimension without having to commit to a full head color change.
How do you dye the underneath of your hair without getting it on the top?
To dye the underneath layer of your hair without getting it on the top, you will need to section your hair into four equal parts using sectioning clips. This will make it easier to work with the dye and avoid getting it on the top of your hair.
How long does it take to dye the underneath of your hair?
It usually takes around 30 minutes to dye the underneath layer of your hair. This is the amount of time that is specified in most hair dye packages.
