How To: Give yourself perfect highlights

Looking to brighten up your hairdo? Add pizzazz to your hair by giving yourself highlights—at home. In this video, learn how to give yourself the perfect highlights.

You Will Need:
• A highlighting kit
• An old blouse
• Water
• Conditioner
• A towel
• Clarifying shampoo (optional)
• Art brushes (optional)

Step 1: Buy a kit
Get a highlighting kit in a color that is a few shades lighter than your hair. Make sure the bleach hasn't expired.

Step 2: Wear something old
Put on an old blouse just in case any dye drips on you.

Step 3: Mix the color
Mix a small batch of test color according to the package's directions.

Step 4: Do a test
Take a small, inconspicuous section of dry, unwashed hair. With the smaller brush, apply the dye for 10 minutes; then rinse & dry. If you like the color, continue with the rest of your hair. If the color is too light, repeat the test on another section, leaving the dye on for only 5 minutes. If the color wasn't light enough, re-test for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Begin highlighting
Now that you've figured out the perfect amount of time to let the dye sit, begin painting strands of hair with your brushes, starting at the back. Do thick streaks as well as thin ones (using the 2 brush sizes) so you don't end up looking like a zebra.

Step 6: Frame face
Highlight the strands of hair that frame your face to brighten your skin tone.

Step 7: Be conservative
Don't apply too many highlights: It's easier to add more later than to remove them!

Step 8: Rinse thoroughly
Rinse your hair until the water runs clear.

Step 9: Condition
Add a good conditioner to your rinsed hair & leave it on for 10 minutes.

Step 10: Dry
Dry your hair & style as usual. Don't wash for at least 24 hours.