Microlights Are the Subtle Way to Totally Change Your Look

There are many ways to upgrade your look with hair color. You could opt for the latest trend, as there are lots of options to choose from, or go with highlights to give your current shade a lift. But when you’re aiming to achieve a naturally lightened color akin to sun-kissed strands, microlights are the technique to turn to. Unlike traditional highlights, microlights offer a subtle, brightened effect that’s organic and seamless. Of course the technique is nothing new. Highlighting trends vary from year to year. Yet, as we are entering a space where effortless beauty is a benchmark for everyday style, the rise of microlights feels even more timely. Ahead, three color experts weigh in on what makes the look unique and how to keep them fresh.

Featured experts

Microlights vs babylights

Microlights and babylights are both color-lightening techniques that can be used to add a natural-looking dimension to the hair. “Babylights is a highlighting technique that colors fine sections of the hair while microlights add color to an ultra fine, nearly microscopic, subsection of hair within the foil, ” says colorist Ryan Dickie. But the size of the section is just one element that sets the two techniques apart.

According to colorist Stephanie Brown, placement is also key. She explains that babylights use more of a weave placement with a good amount of space between the strands, while micro styles use more of a thin slice with the foils placed very close together. Though the process is similar, the results are distinctly different. “Micro highlights create an overall brighter look without visible or obvious streaks, giving you a more seamless color,” says hairstylist and owner of Craft Collective salon Mick Lewis.

Who do microlights work for?

Given the subtle tone of microlights, the experts say the technique works best for those looking to softly highlight their hair. This is the perfect way to achieve a super soft and natural look for several different color types. “Microlights are great for brunettes who have a hard time achieving a lightened blonde color,” says Brown. Coincidentally, they also work well for gray hair and can be used to blend the shade in a subtle way.

Put simply, this technique is all about attention to detail. “Microlights are best used for precision,” says Dickie. That said, they can easily be paired with other coloring techniques. Combining them with other highlighting styles not only helps to lighten the hair but, as Dickie notes, can brighten focal areas around the face, such as the hairline and part.

How to maintain microlights

Maintaining any new color after your appointment requires some work, and that goes tenfold for microlights. “This is a higher maintenance color because you’re highlighting so much more of your hair,” says Brown. The good news is that when done properly, it will grow out nicely and in a natural manner. “It’s best to plan for a maintenance appointment eight to 12 weeks after the initial service,” Brown adds.

At home, the pros say that a regimented routine of color-preserving and hydrating products is key. Along with color-safe shampoos and conditioners, Lewis recommends using a conditioning mask such as Semi Di Lino’s Diamond Illuminating Mask ($60) to help keep your strands healthy. If you’re using hot tools on a regular basis, Dickie says it’s best to add a heat protectant or nutrient-rich styler to your routine. “Look for a product, such as R&Co’s On A Cloud ($34), that will replenish, strengthen and protect your hair,” he says.