Babylights and balayage are two popular hair coloring techniques that can give you a beautiful, natural-looking sun-kissed look. But what’s the difference between the two? And which one is right for you?
1. The Size of the Highlights
One of the key differences between babylights and balayage is the size of the highlights. Babylights are very fine and subtle, while balayage highlights are typically thicker and more noticeable. Babylights are applied all over the head, while balayage is typically applied to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair.
2. The Application Technique
Another difference between babylights and balayage is the application technique. Babylights are applied using a fine brush, while balayage is applied using a freehand motion. This results in a feathered, blended look for balayage, while babylights have a more precise, even look.
3. The Cost
Babylights are typically more expensive than balayage, due to the time and precision required to apply them. Balayage, on the other hand, is a relatively quick and easy technique to apply, making it more affordable.
Which Technique Is Right for You?
The best way to decide which technique is right for you is to consult with a professional hair stylist. They can assess your hair type, color, and desired look to help you choose the best option.
In general, babylights are a good choice for people who want a subtle, natural-looking highlight. Balayage is a good choice for people who want a more dramatic, sun-kissed look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when getting babylights or balayage:
- Going too light: It’s important to choose a highlight color that is close to your natural hair color. Going too light can look unnatural and brassy.
- Getting too many highlights: Too many highlights can make your hair look thin and damaged. It’s best to start with a few highlights and add more as needed.
- Not using a professional: Babylights and balayage are both techniques that require skill and precision. It’s important to get your hair colored by a professional hair stylist to avoid any damage.
Here is a step-by-step guide to balayage:
- Prepare the hair: Wash and dry the hair.
- Section the hair: Divide the hair into sections.
- Apply the lightener: Using a brush, apply the lightener to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair.
- Foil the hair: Wrap the hair in foil to help the lightener penetrate the hair shaft.
- Process the hair: Process the hair for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer of the lightener.
- Rinse the hair: Rinse the hair thoroughly to remove the lightener.
- Condition the hair: Apply a conditioner to the hair to help restore moisture.
| Feature | Babylights | Balayage |
|---|---|---|
| Highlight size | Fine and subtle | Thick and noticeable |
| Application technique | Applied using a fine brush | Applied using a freehand motion |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Best for | Subtle, natural-looking highlights | Dramatic, sun-kissed highlights |
| Mistake | Description | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Going too light | Choosing a highlight color that is too light can look unnatural and brassy. | Choose a highlight color that is close to your natural hair color. |
| Getting too many highlights | Too many highlights can make your hair look thin and damaged. | Start with a few highlights and add more as needed. |
| Not using a professional | Babylights and balayage are both techniques that require skill and precision. | Get your hair colored by a professional hair stylist to avoid any damage. |
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prepare the hair | Wash and dry the hair. |
| Section the hair | Divide the hair into sections. |
| Apply the lightener | Using a brush, apply the lightener to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair. |
| Foil the hair | Wrap the hair in foil to help the lightener penetrate the hair shaft. |
| Process the hair | Process the hair for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer of the lightener. |
| Rinse the hair | Rinse the hair thoroughly to remove the lightener. |
| Condition the hair | Apply a conditioner to the hair to help restore moisture. |