How to Do Cap Highlights

Highlights can be subtle or bold.

Highlights can add dimension and shine to your hairstyle, and are readily accomplished using a specially designed skull cap. A highlighting cap has holes all over it that allow you to pull strands of hair through the cap to create highlights just where you want them. The hair strands pulled out of the cap are the strands that the highlighting solution is applied to. Begin with hair that is completely dry.

Things You'll Need

• Highlighting solution
• Application wand
• Hook
• Highlighting cap
• Outer cap
• Comb
• Towel
• Hair clip

Instructions

1. Comb your hair straight back, combing until it is tangle-free.

2. Place the highlighting cap over your head and fasten the chin strap.

3. Insert a hook (it looks like a crochet hook) through a hole in the cap and pull a small strand of hair through the cap. Begin at the forehead and continue to the back of your head, pulling the hair through the holes in the cap. You may need a mirror or an assistant when pulling the hair through the cap at the back of your head. Comb the hair sticking out of the cap to remove any tangles.

4. Mix the highlighting solution according to the manufacturer's directions; wear protective gloves when handling the solution.

5. Place a towel over your shoulders to protect your clothing.

6. Apply the highlighting solution to your hair, using the applicator. Use your hands to work the solution completely into the hair. Be careful to not get the solution on any hair that is under the cap.

7. Pull the treated hair up to the top of your head and fasten it with a hair clip. Place the outer cap over your head. Leave the hair covered for 20 minutes.

8. Wipe the solution off of a small strand of hair to see if the hair has lightened the desired amount. Reapply and check every five minutes until your highlights are the color you want. Do not leave the solution on any longer than 50 minutes.

9. Remove the cap and rinse the highlighting solution from your hair. Dry and style your hair.

Tips & Warnings

• Highlighting kits are available that contain all necessary equipment.

• Long hair may be difficult to pull through the cap.

References

• Virtual Hair Care: Difference Between Hair Foil & Cap Highlights