Have you ever looked at a sun-kissed celebrity and thought, “I wish my hair looked that naturally highlighted?” Well, you’re not alone! Achieving those gorgeous, lightened strands is a popular request at hair salons everywhere. But when it comes to hair coloring techniques, there are two main options to consider: balayage and highlights.
Both balayage and highlights can add dimension and light to your hair, but they achieve this look in different ways. So, how do you know which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences between balayage and highlights to help you make the best decision for your hair.
What is Balayage?
Balayage (pronounced bah-lee-ahge) is a French word that means “to sweep.” It’s a freehand hair coloring technique where the color is painted onto the hair in a sweeping motion. This creates a soft, blended look that mimics the way the sun naturally lightens hair. Because the color is applied by hand, the result is a more natural-looking and dimensional highlight, rather than the uniform stripes you often see with traditional highlights.
What are Highlights?
Highlights are a more traditional hair coloring technique where lighter sections of hair are created by weaving thin strands through a cap and applying bleach or lightener. The cap protects the rest of the hair from being lightened. Highlights can be placed all over the head, or concentrated around the face to frame it.
Balayage vs Highlights: Key Differences
Here’s a quick comparison of balayage and highlights to help you see the key differences:
- Application: Balayage is a freehand technique, while highlights use a cap and foils.
- Placement: Balayage is typically applied to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, while highlights can be placed anywhere on the head.
- Result: Balayage creates a more natural, blended look, while highlights create a more defined, striped look.
- Maintenance: Balayage generally requires less maintenance than highlights, as the grow-out is more subtle.
Which Technique is Right for You?
The best hair coloring technique for you will depend on your desired outcome and hair type. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Choose balayage if: You want a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect. Your hair is fine or damaged, as balayage is generally less damaging than highlights. You don’t want to have to come in for frequent touch-ups.
- Choose highlights if: You want a more defined, brighter look. Your hair is coarse or thick, as highlights can help to add texture and dimension. You don’t mind coming in for more frequent touch-ups to maintain your highlights.
No matter which technique you choose, be sure to consult with a professional hairstylist at VIP Hair Salon to discuss your desired outcome and hair type. They can help you choose the best technique for you and achieve the look you love.
Key Considerations: Balayage vs Highlights
- Your hair color: If you have dark hair, you may want to go with a bolder highlight to achieve a noticeable difference. On the other hand, if you have light hair, you may want to go with a more subtle balayage.
- Your budget: Highlights can be more expensive than balayage, as they take more time and product. • Your lifestyle: If you have a busy lifestyle and don’t have a lot of time for hair appointments, balayage may be a better option for you, as it requires less maintenance.
We hope this blog post has helped you understand the difference between balayage and highlights. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with a hairstylist, please contact VIP Hair Salon today!
