13 Curly Hair Highlights: Transform Your Curls with Stunning Dimension

Curly hair is a statement on its own—full of volume, bounce, and personality. But when you add the right highlights, your curls can transform into a dazzling, multi-dimensional masterpiece. If you’ve been wondering how to elevate your curly hairstyle, 13 curly hair highlights ideas can give you the perfect blend of color and texture. In this article, we’ll dive into the best ways to highlight curly hair, color trends, and styling tips for every curl type.

Why Highlights Work Wonders on Curly Hair

Curly hair naturally creates shadows and light because of its texture. Highlights can enhance this dimension, making curls appear more vibrant and full of life. Here’s why highlights are ideal for curly hair:

Add Depth: Highlights can make your curls look thicker and more voluminous.
Define Shape: Strategic placement can accentuate your curls’ natural patterns.
Brighten Your Face: Lightened strands around your face can make your complexion glow.
Modernize Your Look: Even subtle highlights can refresh your style without a complete color overhaul.

13 Curly Hair Highlights Ideas You’ll Love

Whether you have tight coils, loose waves, or a mix of textures, there’s a highlight style for everyone. Here are 13 curly hair highlights ideas to inspire your next salon visit.

1. Balayage Highlights for Curly Hair

Balayage is a freehand coloring technique that blends highlights seamlessly into your curls. It’s perfect for curly hair because it creates a natural, sun-kissed effect without harsh lines. Opt for warm caramel or honey tones to add softness and dimension.

2. Caramel Highlights

Caramel highlights complement dark brown or black curls beautifully. They bring warmth and depth while keeping your hair looking natural. Caramel tones are particularly stunning on thick, bouncy curls.

3. Honey Blonde Highlights

If you’re ready for a brighter, more noticeable change, honey blonde highlights are perfect. They reflect light and add an instant lift to your curls, especially around the face.

4. Subtle Blonde Tips

For those who prefer minimal maintenance, adding subtle blonde tips can give your curls a light, playful finish. This style is low-maintenance but still eye-catching.

5. Copper Highlights

Rich copper highlights add warmth and dimension to medium brown hair. They work well with all curl types, giving your curls a lively, fiery glow.

6. Red Highlights for Curly Hair

Red highlights are bold and dramatic. They create a stunning contrast with darker curls, perfect for those who want a standout look. Pair them with deep brown or black hair for a striking effect.

7. Ash Blonde Highlights

If you prefer cooler tones, ash blonde highlights are ideal. They add sophistication and can balance out warmer undertones in your natural hair color.

8. Bronde Highlights

A mix of brown and blonde, known as bronde, is perfect for natural-looking highlights. It’s a versatile option that suits any curl type and skin tone.

9. Face-Framing Highlights

Curly hair often looks heavier around the face. Adding highlights around the front can brighten your features and give your hairstyle a lighter, more airy appearance.

10. Chunky Highlights for Curly Hair

If you’re bold, chunky highlights can make a statement. Large, contrasting sections of color create a dynamic look, emphasizing your curls’ texture and movement.

11. Subtle Ombre Effect

An ombre effect, where the ends are lighter than the roots, is perfect for curly hair. It adds depth without being overwhelming, and it’s especially low-maintenance as your roots grow out naturally.

12. Platinum Highlights

For a daring, modern twist, platinum highlights can transform your curls into a fashion-forward statement. Pair them with a darker base for dramatic contrast.

13. Pastel Highlights for Curly Hair

Pastel shades like lavender, rose gold, or soft pink add a whimsical, fun vibe to curly hair. These highlights are ideal for short or medium-length curls and give your hair a playful personality.

How to Choose the Right Highlights for Your Curl Type

Curly hair isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your curl pattern and texture should influence your highlight choice:

Loose Waves: Subtle, blended highlights like balayage or bronde work best.
Tight Curls: Bold highlights or chunky sections create contrast and definition.
Coily Hair: Soft, natural highlights around the face enhance dimension without overpowering the curls.

Tips for Maintaining Highlighted Curly Hair

Highlights can dry out curls if not properly cared for. Here’s how to keep your highlighted curls healthy and vibrant:

Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Sulfates can strip your hair color and moisture.
Deep Condition Regularly: Highlights can cause dryness; hydrate with deep-conditioning treatments.
Limit Heat Styling: Curly hair thrives naturally; avoid excessive straightening to prevent damage.
Protect from Sun and Chlorine: Sun exposure and swimming pools can fade highlights quickly. Use UV-protectant sprays and swim caps.
Refresh Color Every 8–12 Weeks: Depending on your highlight style, touch-ups may be needed to maintain vibrancy.

Curly Hair Highlighting Techniques

Different highlighting techniques give different effects. Choosing the right one ensures your curls look their best:

Foil Highlights: Classic method for precise color placement.
Balayage: Freehand technique for natural, sun-kissed curls.
Babylights: Very fine highlights for subtle, delicate dimension.
Ombre/Sombre: Gradual lightening for a low-maintenance look.

Styling Highlighted Curly Hair

Once your curls are highlighted, styling can enhance the effect:

Diffusing: Use a diffuser to enhance natural curl shape and show off highlights.
Twist-Outs: Twist sections of your hair for a more defined curl pattern with visible highlights.
Curly Updos: High buns or half-up styles showcase the color contrasts beautifully.
Defined Ringlets: Use curl creams or gels to define curls and make highlights pop.

Final Thoughts on 13 Curly Hair Highlights

Whether you’re looking for subtle dimension or bold color, 13 curly hair highlights options offer something for every personality and curl type. Highlights don’t just add color—they enhance your curls’ natural beauty, shape, and volume. By choosing the right color, technique, and maintenance routine, your highlighted curls can stay vibrant, healthy, and stylish all year round.

Remember: consult with a professional stylist experienced in curly hair coloring to ensure the best results. Your curls are unique, and your highlights should be too!