Formula: Highlights from level 7 to level 10
Highlights from level 7 (Medium blonde) to level 10 (Extra light blonde) remain one of the most classic and profitable salon services. With 3 levels of lift required, you need to account for the orange-yellow underlying pigment at the starting level, reaching a pale yellow background at the target level. Precision in sectioning, the thickness of each highlight, and the amount of product applied will determine the final result. Insufficient saturation leaves uneven highlights, while too much product can cause overlapping. In this guide you will find the recommended developer, processing times, and exact steps to achieve uniform, luminous highlights.
Process steps
Diagnosis and planning
Evaluate the starting level (7, Medium blonde) and determine the desired highlight density. Define the pattern: fine highlights for a natural effect or chunky for more contrast. The underlying pigment at the starting level (orange-yellow) indicates the journey the product must take.
Product preparation
Mix lightener with 30vol (9%) developer in a 1:1.5 or 1:2 ratio depending on the brand. To achieve 3 levels of lift, 30vol provides adequate power. The mix should be firm to prevent it from spreading outside the foil.
Sectioning and foil application
Work in horizontal sections from bottom to top. Place foil underneath the section, apply product evenly from root (leaving 0.5 cm) to ends. Close the foil without excessive pressure. Alternate sections with and without highlights to maintain the desired ratio.
Controlled processing
Process for 30-45 minutes. Check by opening one foil every 10 minutes to verify lift level. The goal is to see a pale yellow background, indicating you have reached level 10. Internal foil temperature accelerates the process, so monitor highlights near the root which process faster.
Removal and finishing
Remove foils starting with the first ones applied. Rinse with lukewarm water. If you need to neutralize the pale yellow background, apply a toner with Touch of violet to neutralize pale yellow. Process 15-20 minutes, rinse, and apply a conditioning treatment to restore moisture.
Technical details
Professional tips
- Keep the mix firm inside the foil. If the product is too liquid, it will seep and create spots on natural sections.
- Finer highlights give a more natural result. For a "lived-in" effect, alternate between fine and medium highlights.
- Don't open all foils to check: pick one representative foil from each zone (nape, side, crown) every 10 minutes.
- For cooler highlights, add a touch of ash corrector to the lightener mix. This compensates for the warm underlying pigment during lifting.
Frequently asked questions
About this specific formula
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