By Hair color trends come and go, but frosted hair highlights have made a major comeback. Once a nostalgic throwback from the ‘90s, this cool-toned highlighting technique has evolved into one of 2025’s most popular hair trends. Whether you’re going for a subtle shimmer or bold, icy contrast, frosted highlights can elevate your look and give your hair instant dimension and shine.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything about frosted hair highlights—from their origins to modern styles, color combinations, maintenance tips, and professional advice to help you achieve the perfect frosted finish.
What Are Frosted Hair Highlights?
Frosted hair highlights are a coloring technique where light or platinum shades are applied to small, separated strands of hair. The goal is to create a sun-kissed, icy effect that brightens your overall look. Unlike balayage or ombré, frosted highlights are more defined and evenly distributed, creating a shimmering, multidimensional finish.
This look works beautifully on all hair colors—blonde, brunette, black, or even red—and adds texture and movement to your hairstyle without changing your base color completely.
A Brief History of Frosted Highlights
Frosted highlights first gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, when stars like George Michael and the Backstreet Boys made the “frosted tips” trend iconic. Back then, the look was bold, chunky, and often paired with spiked hair.
Today’s frosted highlights are more sophisticated. Modern techniques use fine sections and soft blending to create natural-looking contrast—giving you a refreshed version of a classic style.
Why Frosted Highlights Are Trending in 2025
With the resurgence of retro styles and minimalist aesthetics, frosted hair highlights have become the go-to for both men and women seeking effortless, cool-toned hair color.
Key reasons for the trend:
- Low-maintenance glow: Unlike full bleaching, frosted highlights grow out naturally.
- Versatility: Works on all hair lengths, textures, and shades.
- Face-framing effect: Brightens and lifts your features instantly.
- Perfect for every season: Cool tones complement both winter and summer looks.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have also fueled the trend, with hashtags like #FrostedHighlights and #IcyBlonde trending among beauty influencers.
Best Frosted Highlight Styles for Every Hair Type
Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, frosted highlights can be customized to fit your style and personality.
For Short Hair:
Opt for frosted pixie highlights or textured bobs. Adding icy streaks around the crown or fringe creates movement and a modern edge.
For Medium Hair:
Try partial frosted highlights or soft balayage blends. This enhances dimension and looks stunning with waves or curls.
For Long Hair:
Full frosted balayage or layered frosted streaks make long hair appear fuller and shinier. The contrast between your natural roots and frosted ends adds depth and visual interest.
Top Color Combinations for Frosted Highlights
Choosing the right tone is key to achieving the perfect frosted look. Here are popular color pairings for 2025:
- Icy Blonde Frosting: Ideal for light hair bases; gives a platinum, shimmering glow.
- Ash Brown Frosting: Perfect for brunettes who want a cool, smoky undertone.
- Silver Frosting on Black Hair: Striking contrast that creates a modern, edgy appearance.
- Rose Frosting: Combines pastel pink tones with frosted tips for a feminine twist.
- Champagne Frosted Highlights: Warm and luminous for a soft, golden finish.
How to Get Frosted Highlights: Salon vs. DIY
While DIY kits are available, achieving salon-quality frosted highlights requires skill and precision.
At the Salon:
A professional colorist will use a highlighting cap or foiling method to isolate strands before applying lightener and toner. This ensures even distribution and minimal damage.
At Home:
If you’re experienced with hair color, you can use a frosting kit with a cap and hook. Always perform a strand test first and avoid over-lightening to prevent breakage.
Pro Tip: Use a toner or purple shampoo afterward to eliminate brassiness and maintain your icy tone.
Maintenance Tips for Frosted Highlights
Frosted highlights require proper care to maintain their cool, bright tone.
Here’s how to keep them looking fresh:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo to preserve color and prevent dryness.
- Incorporate purple or silver shampoo weekly to combat yellow tones.
- Deep condition once a week for shine and strength.
- Limit heat styling and always apply a thermal protectant.
- Schedule touch-ups every 8–10 weeks for consistent brightness.
Frosted Highlights for Different Skin Tones
Your skin tone plays a huge role in selecting the best frost shade.
- Fair Skin: Go for pearl or silver highlights for a soft, ethereal look.
- Medium Skin: Ash blonde or honey-frosted tones complement warmth beautifully.
- Olive Skin: Platinum or beige highlights add radiance without clashing with undertones.
- Deep Skin: Caramel or mocha frosting creates stunning contrast and warmth.
A skilled colorist can adjust the undertones to enhance your complexion and bring balance to your overall appearance.
Celebrity-Inspired Frosted Hair Ideas
Celebrities have redefined frosted hair highlights for the modern era.
Popular examples include:
- Kim Kardashian: Known for her icy beige frosted locks.
- Zac Efron: Rocked a cool, ash-blonde frosted fade.
- Gigi Hadid: Sports soft champagne highlights for effortless glam.
- Justin Timberlake (throwback): A nostalgic nod to the frosted tip era.
Drawing inspiration from these icons can help you decide how dramatic or subtle you want your frosted transformation to be.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Frosted Highlights
To ensure your frosted highlights look polished and professional, avoid these pitfalls:
- Over-bleaching: Leads to breakage and dullness.
- Skipping toner: Causes yellow or brassy hues.
- Uneven application: Results in patchy, unflattering streaks.
- Neglecting aftercare: Shortens color longevity.
- Using hot tools excessively: Fades the icy tone faster.
Always follow your stylist’s maintenance plan and use products specifically formulated for color-treated hair.
Conclusion
Frosted hair highlights are no longer just a retro revival—they’re a timeless, adaptable trend that suits every hair type and personality. Whether you prefer subtle shimmer or bold contrast, frosted highlights offer a chic way to enhance your look while adding depth, texture, and a youthful glow.
With the right tone, care routine, and a bit of inspiration, you can achieve a fresh, modern hairstyle that turns heads in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
1. Are frosted highlights the same as balayage?
No. Frosted highlights are more defined and uniform, while balayage uses a freehand technique for a softer, blended effect.
2. How long do frosted highlights last?
They typically last 8–10 weeks before requiring a touch-up, depending on your hair growth and maintenance routine.
3. Can I get frosted highlights on dark hair?
Absolutely! Frosted silver or ash tones look stunning on dark bases, creating a chic, high-contrast look.
4. Do frosted highlights damage hair?
If done correctly by a professional and followed by proper care, frosted highlights cause minimal damage. Always use moisturizing and strengthening treatments.
5. What is the cost of frosted highlights?
Salon prices range from $80–$250, depending on hair length, thickness, and stylist expertise.
Also read: Does Hair Grow Quicker in the Summer? The Science Behind Seasonal Hair Growth
