If you’re considering getting your hair colored, you may be wondering whether to get highlights or balayage. Both techniques can give you a beautiful, natural-looking result, but there are some key differences between the two.
1. Technique
- Highlights: Highlights are created by applying bleach to small sections of hair, usually using a cap or foil. This creates a more defined, contrasting look than balayage.
- Balayage: Balayage is a freehand painting technique where bleach is applied to the hair in a sweeping motion. This creates a more subtle, blended look than highlights.
2. Placement
- Highlights: Highlights can be placed anywhere on the hair, but they are most commonly placed on the top and sides of the head.
- Balayage: Balayage is typically placed on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, leaving the roots darker. This creates a more natural-looking, sun-kissed effect.
3. Maintenance
- Highlights: Highlights require more maintenance than balayage, as they need to be touched up every 6-8 weeks.
- Balayage: Balayage requires less maintenance, as it can grow out more naturally. You may only need to touch up your balayage every 12-16 weeks.
4. Cost
- Highlights: Highlights are typically more expensive than balayage, as they require more time and product.
- Balayage: Balayage is typically less expensive than highlights, as it requires less time and product.
5. Damage
- Highlights: Highlights can damage the hair, as bleach is a harsh chemical.
- Balayage: Balayage is less damaging than highlights, as it uses less bleach and is applied in a more gentle way.
6. Versatility
- Highlights: Highlights can be customized to create a wide variety of looks, from subtle to dramatic.
- Balayage: Balayage is a more versatile technique, as it can be used to create a variety of looks, from natural to edgy.
7. Longevity
- Highlights: Highlights last for 6-8 weeks before they need to be touched up.
- Balayage: Balayage lasts for 12-16 weeks before it needs to be touched up.
8. Best for
- Highlights: Highlights are best for people who want a more defined, contrasting look.
- Balayage: Balayage is best for people who want a more subtle, blended look.
The best way to decide which technique is right for you is to consult with a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair type and desired look and recommend the best technique for you.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing between highlights and balayage:
- Your hair type: Highlights are not recommended for people with fine or damaged hair, as they can further damage the hair. Balayage is a better option for people with fine or damaged hair, as it is less damaging.
- Your desired look: Highlights