Vertical vs Horizontal Highlights: Easy Guide to Know the Difference

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Highlights make hair look more fun, stylish, and colorful. When talking about vertical vs horizontal highlights, many people feel confused. These two types of highlights are not the same. They are done in different ways and give a different look.

Vertical highlights go from the top of the head down to the ends. They make your hair look longer and thinner. On the other hand, horizontal highlights go side to side. They can make your hair look fuller and more soft.

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You may see both styles in magazines or on social media. Some people like a bold look, while others want something more natural. Knowing the difference between vertical vs horizontal highlights can help you pick the best one for your hair.

In this article, we will explain both styles in simple words. You will learn how they are done, what they look like, and which one may suit you best. Let’s start your hair journey and find the highlight style that makes you smile.

What Are Vertical Highlights?

Vertical highlights are a popular way to color hair. They are done by adding thin or thick lines of color that go from the top of the head to the bottom. These lines follow the same direction as your hair grows, which means they go straight down.

Hair stylists use foils or brushes to paint the color on small sections of hair. They carefully pick which parts to color, leaving some hair in between. This makes the hair look natural and soft, not too heavy or too bright.

Vertical highlights can be done using many different colors. Some people like to use lighter shades to brighten their hair, while others use bold colors for a fun look. You can choose what color fits your style best.

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How They Look?

Vertical highlights look like long stripes of color going down your hair. Because they follow the natural fall of the hair, they blend in nicely. They don’t stand out too much but still make your hairstyle more interesting.

The highlights can be thin and soft, or thick and bold, depending on what you want. Thin lines give a more natural and sun-kissed look. Thick lines give a stronger, more colorful look.

When you move your head, the light hits the colored strands and makes your hair shine. This gives your hair a beautiful glow. It can also make your hair look longer and more full.

These highlights are often seen in modern and trendy hairstyles. Many people on TV and social media love this look because it’s stylish and easy to wear.

Why People Like Vertical Highlights?

People like vertical highlights because they are simple but pretty. They help make your hair look brighter and fresher without coloring your whole head. This makes it easier to grow out your hair without worrying about roots showing too much.

Another reason people love vertical highlights is that they can be done in many ways. You can choose soft colors for a natural look or bright colors for a fun and bold style. This lets you show your own personality through your hair.

Vertical highlights also add movement and shine to the hair. The light hits the different shades, making your hair look healthy and full. They are perfect for anyone who wants a soft, blended change instead of a big makeover.

Finally, these highlights are low-maintenance. You don’t need to go to the salon very often to fix them. That’s why many people pick vertical highlights they are beautiful, easy to care for, and always in style.

What Are Horizontal Highlights?

Horizontal highlights are another way to add color to your hair. Instead of going up and down like vertical highlights, these lines go side to side across the hair. The color is placed in layers that run across the head, from one side to the other.

Hair stylists usually work in rows when doing horizontal highlights. They take a section of hair, color it in a flat, wide line, then move to the next layer underneath or above. This way, the highlights look more planned and bold.

These highlights can be soft or strong, depending on how many layers you do and what color you choose. They are often used when someone wants a very noticeable look or a big change in their hairstyle.

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How They Look?

Horizontal highlights look like color bands across your hair. The highlights sit in rows and often show best when your hair is down or straightened. They create a bold look, especially when light and dark shades are used together.

These highlights are placed neatly in wide layers. The result is a strong pop of color that stands out. If you choose a bright or light color, it will show up clearly in each layer of your hair.

Because the color is added from one side to the other, horizontal highlights give your hair a blocky and stylish look. The lines are more noticeable than vertical ones, and that’s why they are great for people who like to be bold.

They work best on straight or slightly wavy hair, so the lines can be seen clearly. Curly hair can still have them, but the lines might look softer or hidden in the curls.

Why People Like Horizontal Highlights?

People like horizontal highlights because they are bold and eye-catching. If you want your hair color to really show, this is a great style to try. The lines are wide and clear, so it gives a strong new look.

These highlights are also good if you want to try something fun or modern. Many people choose them when they want to stand out or try new styles. They are popular in fashion shows, photo shoots, and special events.

Another reason people love horizontal highlights is that they add shape and drama to flat or thin hair. The layered colors can make the hair look fuller and more shaped.

Though they may need a bit more care to keep them fresh, many still choose horizontal highlights because they offer a stylish, fresh look that shows off the color in a big way.

Vertical vs Horizontal Highlights: Key Differences

Let’s see how vertical vs horizontal highlights are different in simple words. Both styles look nice, but they give different effects to your hair. Each one can change the way your hair looks in its own special way.

1. Direction:

Vertical highlights go up and down in your hair. Horizontal highlights go side to side across your hair.
Vertical lines follow the shape of your hair from top to bottom. Horizontal lines sit across the hair, more like stripes.
The way the lines go makes a big difference in the final look of your hair.

2. Final Look:

Vertical highlights make your hair look longer and thinner. They give a soft, flowy look.

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Horizontal highlights make hair look fuller and more bold. They stand out more and look more trendy.

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Vertical ones are good if you want a soft, blended look. Horizontal ones are better if you want your color to pop.

3. Styling Effect:

Vertical highlights blend in more and look more natural. They look great in wavy or long hair.
Horizontal ones pop out more and give a strong, fun style. They can show more color at the top of your hair.
Some people mix both styles to get a cool and stylish mix.

4. Volume and Shine:

Horizontal highlights can make your hair look more thick and full. They are good for people with thin hair.
Vertical highlights don’t add much volume, but they add shine and movement.
If you want hair that looks light and shiny, vertical is great. For big and bold hair, horizontal works better.

Which One Is Better for You?

If you have thin or flat hair, vertical highlights can make your hair look longer and fuller. They add shine and help your hair look more alive. People with round faces may like vertical lines because they make the face look longer and slimmer. This style is also great if you want a soft and natural change.

If your hair is thick, curly, or very full, horizontal highlights can help balance the shape and add color across the hair. This style works well if you want a bold, fun look. It can also suit people with square or long faces because it adds width and makes the face look softer.

Think about what style you like. If you want something simple and neat, vertical may be better. If you want to try something new and bold, go for horizontal. Also, think about how much time you want to spend on styling your hair every day.

Still confused? It’s totally okay. The best thing you can do is ask a hairstylist. They know what will work best for your hair and face. They can give advice that fits your hair type, your face shape, and your own personal style. Always choose what makes you feel happy and confident.

Tips Before Getting Highlights

Getting highlights can make your hair look bright and beautiful. But before you try it, there are some important things to know. These tips will help you choose the right style and keep your hair looking fresh and pretty for a long time.

1. Pick the Right Color and Style

Before you get highlights, think about what color you want. Choose a color that looks good with your skin. If you’re not sure, ask your hairstylist. Also, decide if you want a big change or just a soft, natural look. It helps to show pictures of the hairstyle you like.

2. Talk to a Hair Expert

A good hairstylist can help you choose what looks best. They will check your hair type and face shape. They’ll also tell you what kind of highlights will work best for you — vertical or horizontal.

3. Use the Right Shampoo

After getting highlights, use a shampoo made for color-treated hair. This will help your color stay bright and last longer. Don’t wash your hair every day — 2 to 3 times a week is better.

4. Keep Your Hair Healthy

Use a hair mask once a week to keep your hair soft and shiny. Try not to use hot tools too much, like straighteners or curling irons. If you go in the sun, wear a hat or use a hair spray with UV protection.

5. Trim Your Hair Often

Cutting the ends of your hair every few weeks helps it stay healthy. This also makes your highlights look fresh and neat.

CONCLUSION

Vertical vs horizontal highlights are two different ways to add color to your hair. Vertical highlights go up and down. They make your hair look longer and give a soft style. These are great if you want a more natural and blended look.

Horizontal highlights go side to side. They make your hair look fuller and stand out more. This style is good if you like bold color and want your hair to look thicker.

Both styles are nice and work well for different people. You can choose the one that fits your face shape, hair type, or just the one you like better. There is no right or wrong it’s all about what makes you happy.

Try to talk to your hairdresser before you decide. They can help you pick the best one for your hair. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Have fun and enjoy your new look.

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