Considering a change in your hair color but not sure where to start? Balayage vs. highlights are two popular options that can create beautiful, multidimensional looks, but each technique offers unique effects, maintenance needs, and styling options.
Here, we’ll explore the ins and outs of balayage vs. highlights, so you can make an informed decision that best suits your style and lifestyle.
What is Balayage?
Balayage comes from the French word meaning “to sweep” or “to paint,” and this technique reflects that name by literally sweeping color onto the hair. A colorist hand-paints lightener onto the hair, starting away from the roots and working towards the tips, often focusing on the top layer for a natural, sun-kissed effect.
This freehand technique allows for highly customized color placement, leading to a softer, more blended look with little to no harsh lines.
Key Features of Balayage
- Natural, Blended Look: Balayage creates a subtle, sun-kissed effect that mimics natural hair color changes from the sun.
- Low Maintenance: Balayage grows out seamlessly since there is no sharp demarcation line, allowing you to go longer between touch-ups.
- Versatile for All Hair Types: Whether you have long, short, curly, or straight hair, balayage can work beautifully with your style and texture.
- Customization: Balayage is ideal for creating customized, multi-tonal color, enhancing your natural hair and adding depth.
What are Highlights?
Highlights involve sectioning off pieces of hair and wrapping them in foil with a lightening agent, creating more structured and uniform streaks of color. Highlights are generally applied from root to tip, resulting in a more defined contrast and bold color effect. This technique often requires more maintenance, but it can be tailored for partial, full, or face-framing highlights.
Key Features of Highlights
- Defined, High-Contrast Look: Highlights give a more dramatic, structured look and can create noticeable lightness from the roots.
- Frequent Maintenance: Because highlights typically begin close to the root, they grow out in a way that may require touch-ups every 6–8 weeks.
- Variety of Placements: You can opt for full highlights, partial highlights, or face-framing highlights to add lightness exactly where you want it.
- Control Over Color Intensity: Highlights offer a level of control, allowing you to go as light or as bold as you prefer.
Comparing Balayage vs. Highlights: Which Technique is Right for You?
Both balayage vs. highlights are effective ways to add depth and dimension to your hair, but they serve different aesthetic goals. Let’s take a closer look at each technique to see how they stack up.
| Aspect | Balayage | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Freehand, painted on top layer | Sections wrapped in foil |
| Look | Soft, natural, sun-kissed | Structured, bold, defined |
| Root Regrowth | Subtle regrowth | Visible regrowth |
| Maintenance | Low; every 12+ weeks | Moderate; every 6–8 weeks |
| Best For | Natural, blended effect, low maintenance | High contrast, bold changes |
| Customizability | Highly customizable for subtle changes | Versatile with placement options |
| Cost | Generally higher for first application | May be lower but varies by salon and region |
How to Decide Between Balayage and Highlights
Choosing between balayage vs. highlights depends on a few factors, including your desired look, lifestyle, budget, and hair goals. Here are some tips to help you decide which is the best fit for you.
1. Desired Style
- Natural Look: If you prefer a sun-kissed, low-maintenance look, balayage is ideal. It’s perfect for creating a soft, natural gradient.
- Bold and Defined: For a high-contrast style with noticeable color, go for highlights. Highlights are excellent for creating a brighter overall effect.
2. Hair Maintenance Routine
- Low Maintenance: Balayage requires fewer touch-ups since it grows out more naturally.
- Frequent Upkeep: Highlights tend to need regular salon visits to maintain the root color, especially if you like it close to the scalp.
3. Hair Length and Texture
- Longer Hair: Balayage works wonderfully with longer hair as it creates a soft, dimensional gradient.
- Shorter Hair: Highlights may be more noticeable and impactful on shorter styles, though balayage can also be adapted for shorter cuts.
4. Budget Considerations
- Balayage typically involves a higher initial investment, as it’s a more complex process. However, it can last longer between touch-ups.
- Highlights may have a lower initial cost but require more frequent upkeep, potentially leading to a higher long-term cost.
Can You Combine Balayage and Highlights?
Yes! A combination of balayage and highlights can create a unique, multi-dimensional look, blending the softness of balayage with the structured brightness of highlights. This hybrid technique is often referred to as a “balayage highlight” or “foilyage” and allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds, adding dimension and vibrancy while maintaining a natural-looking blend.
Caring for Balayage and Highlights: Essential Tips
Color-treated hair requires specific care to keep the color looking fresh and healthy. Here are some essential tips for maintaining balayage and highlights:
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner: Sulfates can strip color, so opt for sulfate-free formulas designed for color-treated hair.
- Moisturize Regularly: Balayage and highlights can dry out hair, so it’s essential to use a hydrating conditioner and mask weekly.
- Minimize Heat Styling: Heat can fade color faster, so try to limit heat styling or use a heat protectant.
- Toning Treatments: Balayage and highlights can develop brassy tones. A purple shampoo can help maintain cool tones for blonde highlights, while a blue shampoo works for brunettes.
Choosing the Right Hair Technique with SVY Cosmetics
Both balayage and highlights can dramatically elevate your look, but each offers a distinct style. If you’re still unsure, don’t worry! At SVY Cosmetics, our expert stylists are here to help you choose a look that aligns perfectly with your vision, lifestyle, and hair type.
Ready to refresh your look? Book a consultation with SVY Cosmetics today, and let our professional colorists guide you to the perfect hair transformation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will balayage or highlights damage my hair?
Both techniques involve lightening, which can cause some dryness, but a skilled colorist will take steps to minimize damage. Using quality hair treatments post-coloring can also help keep hair healthy.
2. How long does each technique last?
Balayage can last up to 4–6 months since it grows out naturally. Highlights need touch-ups every 6–8 weeks to keep the roots looking fresh.
3. Can I switch from highlights to balayage?
Yes, you can transition from highlights to balayage, though it may take a few sessions to achieve a fully blended look.
4. Are these techniques suitable for all hair colors?
Both techniques work for a range of hair colors, from blonde and brunette to red. However, the shades and application method may be adjusted depending on the color and texture.