A lot of people today like to add highlights for their hair. There was a time when getting highlights was something done only at a beauty salon. But, these days, like so many other aspects of our lives, you can do it at home. Not only that, there are web sites that will give you step by step instructions to guide you through the process.

But, one step at a time. First, you need to decide just what kind of highlights you want. The easiest way to do that is to look through fashion magazines and/or web sites to find something you like. Next, visit your local store that carries hair care products and pick up a kit. Now, it is important that you select the right one; they are different for people with short hair as opposed to long. For short hair, a kit with a hook and cap is appropriate; for long, you will want one with a special brush to allow you to paint the highlights onto your hair.

Next, select the color you want. For many teens and young people, they like to be bold and daring; they often select neon green or orange, or some other outrageous color.

If this is your first time, play it safe: pick a color just a few shades different from your natural color. When doing the highlights, it is very important that your hair be dry, clean and that you not have washed it recently.

Best thing to do: highlight your hair the day after washing it. The natural oils on your hair will serve as a protection for it, during the coloring process. When you get started, it is best to wear a grungy, old t-shirt - something you won’t mind getting messy, and do the whole process in the kitchen or bathroom. The highlight liquid can very easily stain things, so you want to work in a place that is easy to clean.

As to the actual process, always read the directions thoroughly. But, here is a brief overview of what is involved. Brush your hair out, you want no tangles. Put a towel over your shoulders, and use a hair clip to hold your hair up and out of the way. Put on the cap, pull it into place and secure with the string. Use the hook to punch the desired holes in the cap, and then pull out the amount of hair you want to highlight through each hole.

Now comes the truly messy part of highlights for your hair. You have to mix the coloring agent (shake bottle well before applying, always!), put on the protective gloves (unless you really want colored hands!) and apply.

If you have especially long hair, a brush is best. Once all the highlights have been added, you set a timer for the appropriate time. This will be explained in the instructions. You will need to cover the highlighted hair with plastic to hold it against the outside of the plastic cap.

The reason: your body’s natural heat (radiating from your scalp) will help with the coloring process; it helps to speed it up. Once time is up, check the condition of your hair by using a towel to remove the color from a few strands. If the color is what you want, remove everything and rinse. However, don’t use shampoo; it can remove some of the coloring. Instead, rinse and apply a conditioner to seal and moisturize your hair. Finally, towel dry and blow dry your hair. Presto, you’ve highlighted your hair!