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#1 So what are Pintura highlights?
The pintura process is not only trendy or up-to-date, but has been tried and tested for decades. This process, carefully developed by Devacurl, offers stylists the greatest possible flexibility when it comes to creating bespoke hair colors for curly manes.
“Pintura is a technique developed over 20 years ago to strategically paint curls to create a natural pop of color,” explains Witherspoon. “It allows you to freely apply color to curls while creating beautiful dimension.” Painting curl by curl without folded foils allows “you have more control over the placement of each curl you paint,” according to Urrico.
Unlike other highlighting methods, this technique is ideal for curly hair. “Regular babylights, or highlights, are nice and noticeable on straight hair, but they’re usually lost in curly hair because the sections are too thin,” says Coleman. She recommends taking the hair in thicker sections, even the entire curl, so the color can be seen once it’s done and styled.
#2 The Pintura highlighting process
Pintura is similar to balayage in that it is achieved through a hand painting mechanism. Stylists should focus on “strategically painting curls one at a time while gently gliding the highlighter down the hair shaft,” says Witherspoon. She advises stylists to work with their client’s natural head shape to achieve the perfect shade, from the back of the head to the front of the head.
In addition, our experts recommend that colorists consider the client’s curl pattern, as well as the density and porosity of the hair, when using this technique. “Ask yourself: Have the curls been exposed to too much sun? Are the curls too brassy?’ Once you understand your client’s hair condition, you can use the Pintura technique to create any look,” says Witherspoon.
#3 The importance of hair color and texture
When it comes to perfectly matched Pintura highlights, stylists also need to consider the client’s hair color and texture. “The finer your hair, the more likely you are to lift it faster than someone with coarse hair,” explains Coleman. “Coarse hair tends to be thicker, so it usually takes longer to lift.”
Clear advice is the key to success. “You always want to be honest with your clients about how their hair is performing for the current state,” says Coleman. “Naturally dark hair, previous box color and current hair integrity all play a big role when it comes to providing a color service, so thorough consultation with what your client wants and what is realistic is key,” she explains.
A low-maintenance look
Great news: This coloring process is actually that low-maintenance. “Pintura highlights grow out naturally on curly hair,” says Witherspoon. So little color care is required. All three of our experts say that touch-up appointments can be conveniently scheduled every four to six months. “For someone who wants to keep their color fresh and closer to the roots, I would recommend getting this done 3-4 times a year and making sure the hair stays healthy by getting regular trims and treatments in between,” says Coleman.
Because salon visits are infrequent, home grooming is essential. “To maintain your color, stay away from products that contain sulfate, silicone, and alcohol,” Urrico warns. Regular moisturizing and protein treatments are an absolute must, according to our experts. Coleman recommends AG Balance Shampoo and Boost Conditioner for moisture, and Olaplex for protein.
Speaking of inspiration photos, we’ve got that covered. Here are five beautiful Pintura highlight color moments that we love.
#4 Rosy shades
This is the epitome of subtlety. A touch of chestnut and rose tones look so right in combination with brunette locks.
#5 Blonde face framing
The Pintura process offers the ultimate in customizability. We love a bit of face-framing with a shaggy curly cut.
#6 Full Blonde
The Pintura process is ideal for barely visible color changes. But it also works well for a major mane makeover. This method is an easy way to achieve a multi-dimensional all-over blonde.
#7 Color Accents
Even light pops of ultra-blonde color look better with this procedure. Pintura helps you pinpoint exactly which curls to highlight and define – the result is simply stunning.
#8 caramel tones
Have you ever seen a better mix? Rich caramel tones are an easy addition to brunette tresses with pintura.