What does color first, then highlights mean?
It is two steps in one plan. First comes an all-over color, often called single process, on the roots or the whole head. It covers gray, evens out the base and adds depth. Then come highlights or hi/lo lights for brighter pieces. Because the highlights sit on a rich, even base, they look soft and planned, not stripy.
Why do clients love this combination?
- Gray is covered at the root, so new growth looks even, not salt-and-pepper.
- The base looks richer and glossier, not flat or faded.
- Highlights bring light around the face, which looks fresh and bright.
- Lighter and deeper tones together add depth, so fine hair can look fuller.
- It looks natural, because real hair is never one solid shade.
Who is it good for?
This combination suits many people: those covering gray who still want brightness, brunettes who want soft caramel or honey pieces, and anyone whose single color has started to look flat. It also suits people who love highlights but find highlights alone don't blend enough gray.
If you want very little upkeep, or you would like to let your gray grow in, another option may suit you better. Read about both paths in gray coverage and gray blending.
Why does the color go on first?
Starting with color sets the foundation. Once the base is even, it is easier to see where light should go and how bright the highlights should be. The base also helps the highlights blend near the root, so the line stays softer as your hair grows.
Esther's menu includes L'Oréal INOA ammonia-free color. It has no ammonia smell, feels gentle and helps keep hair's integrity and health, with natural shine and rich coverage, including gray. Learn more about L'Oréal INOA ammonia-free color.
How much do color and highlights cost?
Each part is priced on its own. On Esther's 2026 menu, L'Oréal INOA ammonia-free color is $125 and single process is $100. Full hi/lo lights are $250+ and partial hi/lo lights are $175+. Partial highlights put brightness around the face and part, where it shows most.
Length, thickness and hair history change the final price. The free consultation gives you the exact quote before anything begins. See more about highlights in Palm Beach.
How do you keep it looking fresh?
Use a gentle, color-safe shampoo and cooler water, and protect your hair from heat and strong sun. A glaze with color, $30 on Esther's menu, refreshes tone and adds mirror shine. Roots and highlights don't always need a refresh at the same time, so your colorist may suggest alternating visits. Read how often to refresh highlights and roots.
Talk to Esther about your combination
“I could barely describe what I wanted changed about my color but Esther did it perfectly. I am sooooo happy!”
— Rebekaa R., partial highlights
Esther listens first, mixes every color shade for your skin, eyes and hair, and finishes with a glaze for mirror shine. Text Esther at 561-631-6462 for a free consultation.
Questions clients ask
Will highlights alone cover my gray?
Highlights blend gray, but they don't fully cover it, especially at the root. That is why many people pair them with an all-over color. The color covers the gray, and the highlights add brightness on top.
Is this combination good for fine hair?
Often, yes. A rich base with lighter and deeper pieces creates the look of depth, which can make fine hair look fuller. Your colorist will keep highlights fine and well placed, so the hair never looks see-through.
How often will I need to come back?
It depends on how fast your hair grows, how much gray you have and how bright your highlights are. Many people refresh roots more often than highlights. Ask Esther at your free consultation for a schedule that fits your hair and budget.