First-Time Highlights? Here’s What to Expect During Your Appointment

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Published on: 2025-05-26

Thinking about getting highlights for the first time? You're not alone—highlights are one of the most popular ways to add dimension, brightness, and personality to your look. Whether you want a soft sun-kissed glow or bold contrast, your first appointment at Venelle Salon & Spa in Park Slope will be exciting, personalized, and all about you.

We know the idea of coloring your hair can be a little intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. So here’s everything you need to know about the process, what to expect, and how to prepare.


💬 Step 1: The Consultation

Before we touch a strand of your hair, we’ll start with a thorough consultation. Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • Your hair goals and inspiration photos

  • Your natural hair color and texture

  • Your skin tone and how it affects tone choices

  • Whether you want something low-maintenance or bold

  • Any previous color history (yes, even that one box dye from 3 years ago!)

💡 Tip: Bring pictures of hair you love—it helps us understand your vision!


🎨 Step 2: Choosing Your Highlight Style

Not all highlights are the same. We’ll help you choose the best technique based on your desired result:

  • Babylights: ultra-fine, subtle brightness

  • Balayage: hand-painted, natural sun-kissed effect

  • Foil Highlights: precise, defined, and customizable

  • Face-Framing Highlights (“Money Piece”): a bold pop around your face

  • Peekaboo Highlights: hidden fun color that peeks through

Each method offers a different vibe—and we’ll guide you toward what works best for your lifestyle and maintenance goals.


🪞 Step 3: The Application Process

Depending on the technique and your hair type, application time may vary (usually 1.5 to 3 hours). Here’s a peek at what happens:

  • Sectioning your hair for even color

  • Applying the lightener or color

  • Letting it process while checking tones carefully

  • Rinsing and toning (key step for the perfect shade)

  • Shampoo + conditioning treatment

  • Blow-dry and style reveal!

🎉 This is the exciting part—your new dimension and glow come to life!


💆 Step 4: Aftercare Advice

We’ll walk you through how to care for your new highlights with:

  • Color-safe shampoo and conditioner

  • When to return for a toner or gloss refresh

  • How to avoid fading, brassiness, or dryness

  • Suggested products to maintain vibrancy and shine

Bonus: You’ll leave the salon with a full care plan and product recommendations tailored to your hair!


🕒 How Long Do Highlights Last?

  • Traditional foil or balayage: ~8–12 weeks before a touch-up

  • Face-framing or peekaboo pieces: may last even longer

  • Gloss or toner refresh: every 4–6 weeks to keep color fresh

Highlights are customizable, so your maintenance schedule can be too.


🧴 What You Can Do to Prepare

  • Wash your hair 1–2 days before the appointment

  • Avoid heavy styling products on the day of

  • Know your hair color history

  • Wear comfy clothes (you’ll be in the chair a while!)

  • Trust the process—and enjoy the transformation!


💛 You’re in Good Hands at Venelle

At Venelle Salon & Spa, our expert colorists love helping first-timers discover the magic of customized highlights. We’ll explain every step, answer your questions, and ensure your color suits your face, tone, and lifestyle.

📍Located in Park Slope, Brooklyn
📞 Book your appointment today: 718.989.9800
🌐 venellespa.com


🌟 NEW CLIENT OFFER: First-time highlights? Get a free gloss or deep conditioning treatment with your color service—just mention this blog!


Follow @venellesalonspa on Instagram

For before & after photos, highlight inspiration, and client transformations.


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