In the ever-evolving world of hair color, the quest for natural-looking dimension continues. While balayage and babylights reign supreme, another contender has emerged: ponylights. This innovative technique, named for its unique application method, is captivating stylists and clients alike with its ability to deliver soft, diffused highlights that flatter a multitude of hair types and complexions.
Source: hedgehog94/Shutterstock.com
But what exactly are ponylights, and why should you, as a hair colorist, consider mastering this technique? Read on to find out how to use hair lightener to achieve this look.
What Is the Ponylights Technique?
Ponylights is a hair highlighting technique that creates a soft, natural-looking, sun-kissed effect. It’s named after its unique application process, where the hair is sectioned into multiple ponytails and then highlighted in sections within each ponytail. This creates a more subtle and diffused highlight than traditional foiling methods, as the color is feathered onto the hair rather than painted on in precise sections.
If your client is looking for a way to update their hair color without going for a dramatic change, ponylights are a great option. They’re a versatile technique that can be adapted to suit their individual style and preferences.
The Ponylights Process
As the name suggests, ponylights involve sectioning the hair into multiple ponytails, typically six in total. The stylist then strategically selects strands within each ponytail and applies lightener, meticulously feathering the product upwards for a seamless blend. This application process creates a softer, more diffused highlight compared to traditional foiling techniques, resulting in a more natural-looking effect.
The Advantages of Ponytails When Highlighting
Controlled Color Placement
The ponytails act as natural barriers, preventing the lightener from bleeding into unwanted areas and ensuring precise placement. This is especially beneficial for framing the face and creating delicate highlights around the hairline.
Dimensional Diffusion
Source: DuxX/Shutterstock.com
The feathered application softens the lines between highlights and lowlights, creating a multi-tonal effect that mimics the natural interplay of light and shadow on hair. This adds depth and dimension without resorting to harsh lines or stripes.
Scalability and Customization
The number and positioning of the ponytails can be adjusted to suit individual hair lengths, textures and desired highlight intensity. This makes ponylights incredibly versatile and adaptable to various face shapes and hair types.
Low-Maintenance Magic
The blended nature of ponylights allows them to grow out gracefully, minimizing the need for frequent touch-ups. This is ideal for busy clients who want to extend the life of their color between professional hair color appointments.
Beyond Blondes: Ponylights for Every Palette
While often associated with blonde hair, ponylights are not limited to light tresses. Brunettes can benefit from strategically placed ponylights to add subtle warmth and dimension, while redheads can embrace a touch of fiery glow. The key lies in choosing the appropriate lightener and application technique to complement the existing hair color and desired outcome. Using the right hair color developer is important, too.
Mastering the Technique
While seemingly straightforward, ponylights require a skilled touch and a keen understanding of light and shadow. Here are some key considerations for hair colorists:
- Ponytail Placement: Strategically place the ponytails to frame the face and accentuate desired features. Experiment with different positions to achieve the optimal effect.
- Feathered Application: Mastering the art of feathering the lightener is crucial for creating seamless blends. Use a fine-tooth comb or your fingers to disperse the product, mimicking the way sunlight naturally touches the hair.
- Lightener Choice: Opt for a high-quality lightener with precise control and lift. Consider the client’s hair history and desired outcome when selecting the appropriate strength and application time.
- Toning and Finishing: Don’t forget the final touches once the highlights are processed! A gentle toner can neutralize unwanted brassiness and enhance the overall dimension of the color. Finish with a nourishing hair mask and styling products to ensure the health and shine of the highlighted strands.
Styling Tips for Highlighted Strands
Once you’ve painted your client’s hair with the magic of ponylights, the next step is to unleash its full potential with the perfect styling. Here are some tips to showcase the beauty of this technique and complement your client’s unique features:
Embrace Texture
- Beachy Waves: Ponylights love the company of soft, tousled waves that mimic the sun-kissed effect. Use a curling iron to create effortless, undone waves that enhance the dimensional play of the highlights.
- Glamorous Curls: Ponylights can also add depth and dimension to tighter curls. Use a curling wand or hot curlers to create defined, bouncy curls for a more polished look. Remember to apply heat protectant beforehand to preserve the health of the highlighted strands.
- Sleek Straight: For a more modern and sophisticated take, try straightening the hair to showcase the clean lines and subtle shifts of color within the ponylights. Finish with a shine spray to amplify the hair’s radiance.
Play with Ponytails
- High Ponytail: A classic high ponytail is a perfect way to flaunt the full effect of the ponylights. Add volume by teasing the crown section before securing the ponytail. Leave a few loose strands framing the face for a touch of softness.
- Low Ponytail: A low ponytail is a more relaxed and elegant option. Play with texture by incorporating braids or twists into the ponytail for added interest.
- Half-Up Half-Down: This versatile style is ideal for showcasing the ponylights from every angle. Create loose waves or curls and tie the top half of the hair back in a tousled ponytail, letting the remaining strands flow freely.
Source: hedgehog94/Shutterstock.com
The key to styling ponylighted hair is to keep it natural and effortless. Let the highlights shine through, enhance the texture and experiment with different styles! By incorporating these tips and your creative flair, you can help your clients confidently rock their ponylights.
Closing Thoughts
With their ability to flatter a diverse range of clients and offer a low-maintenance, natural-looking finish, ponylights are poised to become a mainstay in the hair colorist’s arsenal. By mastering this technique, you can attract new clients, expand your service offerings and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing landscape of hair color trends. Remember: the key to success lies in experimentation, practice and a passion for creating beautiful, natural-looking hair color.