Foiling Hair

Hair Coloring Techniques

Foiling hair is a hair coloring technique used to separate sections, preventing different color formulas from mixing together. Using foils is an incredibly versatile method, allowing for unlimited creativity!

Because the sections of hair are kept separate, several colors can be applied in one process. And the freedom to choose the size of each highlighted strand makes it possible to create a very high-end looking, multi-tonal hair color.

These pages will detail the methods and materials for highlighting (or lowlighting) hair with foils, as well as specific techniques.

The right tools and equipment are critical for success with any hair coloring process. Where possible, I've provided a link to a merchant site where the item is available online.

Try new hairstyles and colors on your photo
See what suits you!

Materials for Foiling Hair

Any one of the following will work. The point is to separate the sections of hair that are being colored from the sections that aren't...

• Household tin foil torn into 5 inch wide strips
  
  
• Saran wrap is annoying, but works in a pinch for extremely long hair
  
  
• Spongy sheets
  
  
• CrystalFilm Hair Coloring Sheets
  
  
• Spilo Pre-Cut Professional Foil
  
  
• Spilo Professional Foil Roll

Tools for Success

• Tail comb for slicing and weaving sections
• Duckbill clamps to separate sections (see link below)
• Bowls/Brushes -- Soft 'N Style The Hair Colorists Tool Kit
• Plastic or latex gloves
• Plastic bags

Methods of Foiling Hair

Excuse Me...
Your Roots Are Showing!

Written by an experienced, professional cosmetologist, this book provides more advanced information on the art and science of hair coloring.

• Slicing - dissect a tiny sliver of hair, either horizontal, vertical, or diagonal depending on the look you want to achieve. Take into account how the piece will lay when it's hanging in it's natural position.
  
  
• Weaving - part off a small section and weave the tail of your comb along the surface, creating either thick or thin strands...better yet, mix it up with some small, medium, and large pieces for variety and a more natural look.
  
  
• Paneling - or color blocking, will showcase a great style and offer variety from day to day...if it's done right. This is a very dynamic technique where large sections of hair are colored in contrasting or complimentary tones. The panels are generally underneath or at either side of the part so the paneled sections can be either played up or hidden entirely, depending on where the hair is parted. Positioning is critical with this technique, as is choosing the right color combinations.

Are you limited to using just one of these methods?... I'm glad you asked. ;o) Absolutely not! Feel free to mix it up a bit, toss in a few weaved sections with some slices, and perhaps a panel or two for added dramatic flair.

Try new hairstyles and colors on your photo
See what suits you!

However, having a plan for how and where you're placing the highlights or lowlights before even mixing the color. Don't just "wing it", or you'll likely end up with a hair color that was obviously done on a whim.

Related Articles

Foiling hair combines art and science. Learn about specific techniques in the following articles:

• Highlighting Hair with Foils
• Hair Coloring Chemistry
• Hair Coloring Pictures
• Hair Color Article Index

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