If you’re looking for a way to add some natural highlights to your hair without using harsh chemicals or spending a fortune at the salon, then you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll be discussing how to get natural highlights with lemon juice using an easy DIY hair hack. Lemon juice is a popular natural remedy for lightening hair due to its acidic properties. It’s a safe and affordable alternative to chemical hair dyes, and it can also help to add shine and improve the overall health of your hair. So let’s dive in and find out how to achieve those gorgeous sun-kissed highlights!
Gather Your Supplies
The first step in this DIY hair hack is to gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need fresh lemons, a juicer or strainer, a spray bottle, a hairbrush or comb, and optional ingredients such as conditioner or coconut oil. It’s essential to use freshly squeezed lemon juice as pre-packaged lemon juice may contain additives or preservatives that can be harmful to your hair.
Preparation
Before we get started with the application process, it’s crucial to prepare your hair properly. Start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo to remove any dirt or product buildup. Pat your hair dry with a towel, leaving it slightly damp. Don’t apply any conditioner at this stage as it may interfere with the lightening process.
Mixing the Lemon Juice Solution
Next, it’s time to mix your lemon juice solution. Squeeze the fresh lemons using a juicer or strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds. Pour the lemon juice into a spray bottle, which will make the application process much more comfortable. If you have sensitive skin or your hair tends to be dry, you can dilute the lemon juice with water or mix it with a small amount of conditioner or coconut oil.
Applying the Lemon Juice
Once your lemon juice solution is ready, it’s time to apply it to your hair. Start by combing or brushing your hair to ensure it’s tangle-free. Divide your hair into sections, which will make it easier to apply the lemon juice evenly. If you’re targeting specific strands for highlights, clip the rest of your hair out of the way.
Method 1: Spray Bottle
Using the spray bottle, mist the lemon juice solution onto your hair, focusing on the sections where you want the highlights. Make sure to saturate your hair thoroughly but avoid dripping or excessive soaking. If you accidentally get lemon juice on your skin, wipe it off immediately to prevent any potential irritation or sensitivity.
Method 2: Cotton Pad
If you prefer a more controlled application or want to create a more subtle effect, you can use a cotton pad. Soak a cotton pad in the lemon juice solution and gently swipe it along the sections of hair you want to highlight. This method allows for more precision and is ideal for creating face-framing highlights or blending different shades.
Processing Time and Sun Exposure
After applying the lemon juice to your hair, it’s essential to let it sit and process. The longer you leave the lemon juice on your hair, the lighter the result will be. However, it’s crucial to avoid excessive sun exposure during this time as the combination of lemon juice and UV rays can damage your hair and lead to dryness or breakage.
Indoor Method
If you prefer to stay indoors, you can simply wrap your hair in a shower cap or cover it with a towel to prevent the lemon juice from drying out. Leave the lemon juice on your hair for at least an hour, but if you have the time, leaving it overnight can produce more noticeable results. Once the desired processing time has passed, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water.
Outdoor Method
If you choose to be outside, remember to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with sunscreen. Apply the lemon juice to your hair and sit in a sunny spot for around 30-60 minutes. The combination of the lemon juice and the sun’s rays will help to naturally lighten your hair. Afterward, rinse your hair with cool water to remove any remaining lemon juice.
Aftercare and Maintenance
After you’ve achieved your desired highlights, it’s essential to take proper care of your hair to maintain the results and keep it healthy. Here are a few tips for aftercare and maintenance:
Moisturize
Lemon juice can be drying, so it’s crucial to moisturize your hair after the lightening process. Use a deep conditioning treatment or apply a hair mask to restore moisture and prevent any potential damage. Additionally, incorporating a leave-in conditioner into your hair care routine can help keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Protect from Heat
Excessive heat styling can further dry out your hair, so it’s best to minimize the use of heat tools such as flat irons or curling wands. If you must use them, make sure to apply a heat protectant spray beforehand to minimize damage. Air-drying your hair whenever possible is an excellent way to avoid heat damage.
Sun Protection
Remember that lemon juice can make your hair more susceptible to sun damage. Protect your hair from harmful UV rays by wearing a hat or using hair products that contain SPF. This will help to maintain the color and prevent your highlights from fading.
Regular Touch-ups
As your hair grows, your highlights may become less noticeable. To keep your hair looking fresh and vibrant, perform regular touch-ups using the same lemon juice method. This will help to maintain consistency in color and ensure that your highlights stay intact.
In conclusion, achieving natural highlights with lemon juice is a simple and affordable DIY hair hack. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can add a sun-kissed touch to your hair without the use of harsh chemicals or expensive salon treatments. Just remember to gather your supplies, prepare your hair, mix the lemon juice solution, and apply it evenly. Allow the lemon juice to process, either indoors or outdoors, and rinse it out thoroughly. Lastly, take proper care of your hair with moisturizing treatments, protection from heat and sun, and regular touch-ups. With a little bit of patience and consistency, you can enjoy beautiful, natural highlights that will make heads turn!