Oil-Based Highlights FAQs and Video

Oil-based highlights lift and tone your hair at the same time with an oil lightener, so there is no traditional bleach involved. Here are the answers to the questions we hear most, plus a video.

Color · March 8, 2019

Blonde woman choosing a shade from a hair color swatch book with her stylist

What are oil-based highlights?

Oil-based highlights use an oil lightener in place of traditional bleach. It lifts and tones in one step, and it conditions your hair while it works.

Oil-based highlights questions

What are oil-based highlights?

Highlights made with an oil-based lightener that can lift up to 7 levels. It lifts and tones the hair at the same time.

Do oil-based highlights use traditional bleach?

No. We don't use bleach because it is damaging. The lightener is an oil that conditions the hair as it lifts, and it contains PBX (Protective Barrier Complex).

What is PBX?

PBX stands for Protective Barrier Complex. It protects the dye molecule and deposits color deep into the hair while conditioning it and creating incredible shine.

What is the difference between bleach and an oil-based lightener?

With the Scruples oil-based lightener there is no breakage, no dryness and no brass. The lightener won't over-lighten, and it never needs more than 20 volume peroxide. The result is shiny, beautiful highlights.

How long do oil-based highlights last?

They are permanent and grow out with your hair. Unlike traditionally bleached hair with toner, oil-based highlights don't fade or turn brassy over time.

Watch: oil-based highlights explained

Get oil-based highlights in Raleigh

Sweet T Salon does oil-based blonding with Olaplex in Raleigh, NC. Learn more and book on our Oil-Based Blonde and Olaplex page.

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