Curly hair is naturally full of texture and personality, and adding highlights can take your curls to the next level. Whether you’re looking for something subtle or bold, there are endless possibilities for curly hair highlights. From warm caramel tones to striking blonde balayage, here are 20 amazing ideas to help you rock your curls in style.
1. Medium-Length Curls with Caramel Highlights
Caramel highlights add a soft, sun-kissed glow to medium-length curly hair. The warm tones work well with brunette or dark blonde bases, creating a natural yet eye-catching look.
Features:
- Soft, golden caramel streaks.
- Perfect for medium-length curls.
- Adds dimension and movement.
Tips:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain color.
- Deep condition regularly to keep curls bouncy and hydrated.
- Touch up highlights every 8-12 weeks to keep them fresh.
2. Deep Chocolate Curls with High-Contrast Highlights
For those with rich chocolate curls, high-contrast highlights in lighter tones, like honey or golden blonde, can create a stunning effect. These highlights give your curls depth and definition.
Features:
- High-contrast against dark brown curls.
- Lightens up the overall appearance.
- Suitable for all curl types.
Tips:
- Ask for foil highlights to get precise contrast.
- Keep curls moisturized to prevent frizz.
- Use a curl-enhancing cream to define your locks.
3. Long Dark Brown Curls with Strawberry Blonde Accents
Strawberry blonde highlights add a unique and playful twist to long, dark brown curls. The reddish-golden tones beautifully complement dark bases, creating a striking contrast.
Features:
- Warm strawberry blonde tones.
- Great for long, voluminous curls.
- Enhances natural curl texture.
Tips:
- Opt for balayage for a soft blend.
- Use a color-protecting conditioner to extend color longevity.
- Style with a diffuser to amplify curl volume.
4. Curly Pixie with Light Blonde Highlights
A curly pixie cut with light blonde highlights is both chic and bold. The blonde highlights brighten up the entire look, giving your short curls a trendy and modern vibe.
Features:
- Light blonde highlights on short curls.
- Adds dimension to a curly pixie cut.
- Edgy yet feminine look.
Tips:
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to keep curls soft.
- Use a curl-defining mousse to hold shape.
- Trim regularly to maintain the pixie cut.
5. Tight Chocolate Curls with Caramel Touches
Caramel touches on tight chocolate curls add warmth and richness to your overall look. The subtle highlights blend naturally, making your curls look more defined and luscious.
Features:
- Subtle caramel streaks.
- Adds warmth to dark curls.
- Suitable for tighter curl patterns.
Tips:
- Finger coil sections after applying a curl cream to enhance definition.
- Keep your scalp moisturized with lightweight oils.
- Opt for low-heat styling to prevent color fading.
6. Painted Golden Highlights on Brunette Curls
Golden painted highlights on brunette curls create a sun-drenched look that’s perfect for a radiant glow. The hand-painted technique adds a natural sun-kissed effect.
Features:
- Hand-painted highlights.
- Glowing golden tones.
- Perfect for brunettes.
Tips:
- Choose a hand-painting (balayage) technique for natural highlights.
- Use UV-protecting hair products to prevent color from fading.
- Dry your curls with a microfiber towel to reduce frizz.
7. Dark Red Highlighted Finger Coils
Dark red highlights on finger coils make for a bold, fiery look. This vivid color choice brings out the texture and movement in your curls, adding a striking pop of color.
Features:
- Fiery red highlights.
- Best for finger coil curls.
- Creates a bold, vibrant look.
Tips:
- Deep condition your hair weekly to keep it soft.
- Use color-depositing shampoo to maintain the red hue.
- Avoid excessive heat styling to preserve curl integrity.
8. Curls with Honey Blonde Balayage
Honey blonde balayage looks stunning on curls, blending smoothly into your natural hair for a seamless transition. This soft, warm blonde adds brightness and life to your curls.
Features:
- Soft honey blonde balayage.
- Smooth transition for a natural look.
- Perfect for all curly hair types.
Tips:
- Regularly moisturize your curls to maintain bounce.
- Use a heat protectant before styling.
- Refresh the balayage every 3-4 months to keep it vibrant.
9. Blonde Balayage Ombre Hair
Blonde balayage ombre is a stunning way to add highlights to your curls. The transition from darker roots to lighter ends gives your curls a beachy, effortless vibe.
Features:
- Gradual blonde ombre effect.
- Perfect for curly ombre looks.
- Adds dimension and depth.
Tips:
- Use a toning shampoo to maintain the blonde shade.
- Diffuse curls to enhance volume and texture.
- Avoid over-washing to keep color intact.
10. Copper Curls Balayage
Copper balayage highlights on curly hair add a fiery and warm glow to your overall style. This color is especially flattering on warmer skin tones and adds a dynamic feel to curly locks.
Features:
- Warm copper tones.
- Great for medium to long curly hair.
- Creates a vibrant, eye-catching effect.
Tips:
- Use a color-safe shampoo to maintain vibrancy.
- Opt for low-heat styling tools to prevent damage.
- Keep your curls hydrated with lightweight leave-in conditioners.
11. Ash Blonde Short Curls
Ash blonde highlights on short curls create a cool, modern look. The muted tones give a sophisticated and sleek feel, perfect for anyone looking for a fresh change.
Features:
- Cool-toned ash blonde highlights.
- Great for short curls.
- Modern, sleek finish.
Tips:
- Use purple shampoo to neutralize brassiness.
- Apply a curl cream to enhance natural waves.
- Keep the color vibrant by using a deep-conditioning mask regularly.
12. Red Highlights for Type 3C Hair
Type 3C curls paired with vibrant red highlights make a bold statement. The intense color brings out the texture and volume in your curls, making them look lively and fierce.
Features:
- Bold red highlights.
- Suitable for tight 3C curls.
- Adds intensity and vibrancy.
Tips:
- Use a curl-defining gel for enhanced shape.
- Apply color-protecting hair care products.
- Avoid frequent heat styling to prevent damage.
13. Golden Blonde Balayage on Long Curls
Golden blonde balayage on long curls adds a luxurious and glamorous touch to your hair. This look is perfect for adding brightness and depth without fully committing to a lighter color.
Features:
- Luminous golden blonde balayage.
- Ideal for long curly hair.
- Adds a sun-kissed look.
Tips:
- Use hydrating hair oils to keep curls shiny.
- Opt for air-drying your curls to preserve definition.
- Regularly trim ends to avoid split ends.
14. Natural Curls with Caramel Highlights
Caramel highlights on natural curls add a touch of sweetness and dimension to your look. This versatile color works well with all curl types and skin tones, making it a go-to choice for many.
Features:
- Warm caramel tones.
- Suitable for all curl types.
- Adds depth and dimension.
Tips:
- Refresh your curls with a curl-refreshing spray.
- Use silk or satin pillowcases to reduce frizz.
- Keep your scalp healthy with regular oil massages.
15. Short Loose Curls with Subtle Ashy Highlights
Subtle ashy highlights on short loose curls add a soft, understated look. The cool tones give a sophisticated touch without being too bold.
Features:
- Subtle, cool-toned highlights.
- Perfect for short curls.
- Adds a soft, polished finish.
Tips:
- Use a leave-in conditioner for softness.
- Diffuse curls with low heat to prevent damage.
- Apply anti-frizz serum for extra shine.
16. Hot Pink Highlights on Gray Curls
Hot pink highlights on gray curls create a bold, playful contrast. This look is perfect for anyone wanting to add a touch of fun and color to their natural gray hair.
Features:
- Vibrant pink highlights.
- Creates a fun, playful contrast.
- Suitable for gray curls.
Tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo to maintain color.
- Condition regularly to keep curls soft.
- Opt for semi-permanent dye if you want less commitment.
17. Blonde Balayage on Long Voluminous Hairstyle
Blonde balayage on long voluminous curls adds dimension and brightness to your look. The soft blend of blonde tones creates a dreamy, ethereal effect that’s perfect for any occasion.
Features:
- Soft blonde balayage.
- Perfect for long voluminous curls.
- Adds brightness and movement.
Tips:
- Use curl-enhancing products to maintain bounce.
- Apply a deep conditioner weekly to keep curls hydrated.
- Avoid excessive heat styling to preserve the color.
18. Mid-Length Hairstyle with Highlights and Bangs
Adding highlights to a mid-length curly hairstyle with bangs gives a playful and youthful touch. The highlights enhance the curls’ shape while making the bangs stand out.
Features:
- Mid-length cut with bangs.
- Highlights add depth and dimension.
- Great for enhancing curl shape.
Tips:
- Use a curl-defining gel to keep curls in place.
- Style bangs with a lightweight mousse for volume.
- Refresh highlights every few months to maintain the look.
19. Pastel Rainbow-Colored Curls
For the adventurous, pastel rainbow-colored highlights on curly hair offer a fun and whimsical look. This bold style is perfect for those who love to express their personality through their hair.
Features:
- Multicolored pastel highlights.
- Ideal for curly hair.
- Bold and whimsical.
Tips:
- Use color-safe products to maintain vibrancy.
- Keep curls moisturized to prevent dryness.
- Avoid frequent washing to extend the life of your pastel colors.
20. Honey Kissed Highlights
Honey kissed highlights on curly hair add warmth and a natural glow to your curls. This look works beautifully on darker bases, providing a soft and sun-kissed finish.
Features:
- Warm honey-toned highlights.
- Adds a sun-kissed glow.
- Perfect for brunettes and darker hair.
Tips:
- Protect your highlights with UV-filtering products.
- Use a leave-in conditioner for softness and shine.
- Schedule regular trims to keep curls healthy and bouncy.
By trying out any of these fabulous curly hair highlights, you can enhance your natural curls and express your unique style. Whether you opt for subtle caramel tones or bold rainbow hues, these options will make your curls stand out and turn heads wherever you go.