I want my hair a few shades lighter with highlights. Do I have to bleach it first and then apply the highlights?

Whether or not you have to use bleach to lighten your hair depends on how light you want to make it and whether you hair is virgin hair (never been colored) or not. Virgin hair may be lightened 1-2 shades without using bleach. A professional hair colorist using professional products will obtain the best color results with minimal or no damage to your hair.