Hidden Hair Colour Ideas To Try
Fancy trying something a little different with your hair colour? Peekaboo highlights could be just what you’re looking for. From subtle pops of colour that appear when you move your hair to bold, vibrant panels that make a statement, this playful colouring technique gives you plenty of room to experiment with your look.
At Brooklyn’s Hair Salon in High Wycombe, we love how creative colour placement can transform a hairstyle. Whether you’re tempted by soft peach tones, pretty pinks or a striking flash of electric blue, peekaboo panels are a fun way to express your personality without committing to an all-over fashion colour.
Want to talk through your colour ideas? Book A Consultation Online Today
Please be aware that a patch test/skin test or Allergy Alert Test (AAT) may be required. This is particularly important if you're new to Brooklyn's Hair, haven't had your hair coloured with us for some time, or have experienced a previous reaction. Read our salon policies for more information.
What Are Peekaboo Highlights?
Peekaboo highlights are hidden sections or slices of coloured hair placed underneath the top layers, rather than woven throughout the hair as traditional highlights often are. The result? Colour that peeks through as you move, style or tie your hair up.
One of the things we love about this technique is its versatility. Wear your hair down for a more understated look, tie it half-up to reveal the panels, or add curls and waves to show off those colourful ribbons running through your hair.
Peekaboo colour can be subtle or dramatic, depending on your preferences and the placement of the foils. It’s also sometimes referred to as hidden colour or colour blocking, particularly when the sections are more defined and create a bold contrast against your base shade.
What Colours Can I Choose?
The beauty of this highlighting technique is that you can make the look as subtle or as bold as you like. Soft pink and peach panels create a pretty pop of colour, while electric blue, fiery red and copper tones make more of a statement. If bright colours aren't your thing, contrasting blonde panels can add definition, or you could try a colourful slice beneath your fringe for a playful twist.
The right shade and placement will depend on your natural hair colour, haircut and how you like to style your hair. Fine slices create a softer effect, while chunky panels offer more contrast. At Brooklyn's Hair Salon in High Wycombe, we'll help you choose colours that suit your style and discuss whether your hair needs pre-lightening to achieve your desired result.
Why Foil Placement Makes All the Difference
With peekaboo highlights, it's not just the colour that matters. Foil placement is key to creating the right effect.
Because the coloured sections sit underneath the top layers, your stylist needs to consider how your hair falls naturally, where your parting sits and how you like to style it. Place the panels too deeply and they might barely show; place them too close to the surface and the hidden effect can be lost.
The width and spacing of the foils also influence the result. Fine slices can give you delicate flashes of colour, while chunkier sections create a more defined, high-contrast look.
At Brooklyn's, we'd start by talking through the finish you have in mind. Bring along a few inspiration photos, tell us how you normally wear your hair and let us know whether you want your colour to be noticeable every day or something you can reveal when you feel like it.
We'll then discuss suitable shades, placement and the best approach for your hair.
Are Peekaboo Highlights a Low-Maintenance Hair Colour?
Peekaboo highlights can be a lower-commitment option compared with colour placed prominently at the roots, particularly when the panels sit underneath your natural hair colour.
Because the colour is hidden beneath the top layers, regrowth may be less noticeable than with some traditional highlight placements. However, maintenance will depend on the shades you choose, how much your hair needs lightening and how quickly your hair grows.
Fashion colours such as pink, blue and red can also fade with washing, so they may need refreshing to keep them looking vibrant. Your stylist can recommend a suitable home-care routine and advise how often you may need to return to the salon.
If you're considering a vivid shade, it's worth discussing the ongoing upkeep before you begin so you can choose a look that suits both your style and your routine.
Can You Have Colour on Damaged Hair?
Your hair's condition is always an important consideration before any colour service, particularly if your chosen shade requires pre-lightening.
If your hair is feeling dry, fragile or damaged from heat styling or previous chemical treatments, we'll discuss its current condition and whether it's suitable for the look you want. Depending on your hair, a conditioning treatment or a more gradual colour plan may be advisable before introducing lighter panels.
Using suitable at-home products and following your stylist's advice can also help you look after your hair between appointments. You can explore our advice on hair damage repair and conditioning treatments.
The aim is to find an approach that works for your hair, rather than rushing into a colour result that may compromise its condition.
Ready to Try Peekaboo Hair Colour?
If you're looking for a creative way to change up your hair, peekaboo highlights offer plenty of possibilities. From subtle pastel panels to bold colour blocking, the right combination of shades and foil placement can give you a look that feels completely your own.
At Brooklyn's Hair Salon in High Wycombe, we'll take the time to understand what you want to achieve, discuss your hair's condition and help you choose a colour placement that works with your cut and styling routine.
You can meet our team, read our client reviews and browse our Instagram for more hair inspiration.
Ready to try something new? Book Online Today