Hair graying: what it is, how it is done, advantages and disadvantages

When melting, some strands of hair are dyed in a different color, usually lighter, to create the effect of burning in the sun, natural radiance and visual volume. This is done using special dyes and coloring techniques.

How melting is done

Foil melting is a classic technique where a piece of foil is applied to strands of hair. The dye is then applied to the strand. The foil helps retain heat, speeding up the coloring process.

How melting is done:

• The hair is washed and dried.
• With the help of a hook or comb, the hair is divided into thin strands that will be colored, use a cap for melting, airtouch technique or others.
• The hairdresser applies the lightener to the selected strands and covers them with foil.
• The product is left on the hair for a certain time, depending on the desired result and hair type.

After the lightening reaches the desired shade, the composition is washed from the hair. Then apply a tinting dye and withstand the required time according to the instructions. On washed hair apply a nourishing balm.

Types of melting

The technique of melting differs. In classic melting, separated strands of hair are colored in different shades, creating a natural and soft effect. Other types of hair melting:

• Balayage. Brightener and dye are applied to the hair in the form of vertical or horizontal strips from the middle of the strand and gradually distributed to the ends. This creates natural and smooth transitions between colors.
• Ombré. Brightener and dye is applied to the lower part of the hair using a special brush or sponge to create a natural effect of a smooth transition from dark to light shade.
• Sombré is a less contrasting version of ombré. The transition of shades is smooth.
• Baby Melting. This is the coloring of very thin strands to create a gentle and natural effect.
• Tiger strands. With this technique, strands of hair are highlighted to create striking contrasts in color. It can be a combination of light and dark shades.

These are a few basic techniques, and each is customized to suit the individual preferences of the client and stylist. Melting is done on short and long hair. A light or contrasting lightening is chosen.

Advantages and disadvantages of hair melting

Like any hairdressing technique, melting has advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the technique and style, this procedure can be done infrequently.

Benefits of melting:

• Lightening the hair adds volume and texture to the hairstyle.
• Melting creates a sunny strands effect, giving a natural and vibrant look to the hairstyle.
• It is a great way to hide gray or uneven hair color.
• Melting allows you to experiment with different shades and colors.

Disadvantages of melting:

• The procedure can damage the hair due to the bleaching process.
• It is advisable to use shampoos and conditioners for colored hair. It is important to apply nourishing hair masks regularly.
• There may be unwanted shades if the process is done unprofessionally.
• The cost of melting can be quite high, especially in beauty salons.

Although melting is aggressive, there are fewer negative effects on the hair from this method of lightening the strands. You can use more gentle compositions for lightening, dye with nourishing components. After the procedure more often apply restorative balms.