When it comes to hair color, there are thousands of different techniques out there. Two of the most popular are balayage and highlights. Both techniques can create beautiful, natural-looking results, but there are some key differences between the two.
What is Balayage?
Balayage is a French word that means “to sweep” or “to paint.” It is a freehand hair coloring technique that uses a brush to apply color to the hair in a sweeping motion. This creates a more natural-looking result than traditional highlights, as the color is more blended and subtle.
What are Highlights?
Highlights are a more traditional hair coloring technique that uses foil to separate sections of hair and then bleach them. This creates a more defined, contrasting look than balayage. Highlights can be placed all over the head or just in certain areas, such as the face-framing pieces or the ends of the hair.
5 Key Differences Between Balayage and Highlights
1. Application Method
Balayage is applied freehand, while highlights are applied using foil. This results in a more natural-looking finish with balayage, as the color is more blended.
2. Color Placement
Balayage is typically applied to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, while highlights can be placed all over the head. This means that balayage creates a more subtle, ombré effect, while highlights can create a more dramatic, contrasting look.
3. Maintenance
Balayage requires less maintenance than highlights, as the color is more blended and grows out more gradually. Highlights, on the other hand, need to be touched up more frequently to maintain their definition.
4. Cost
Balayage is typically more expensive than highlights, as it is a more time-consuming technique. The cost of either technique will vary depending on the length of your hair, the desired look, and the salon you go to.
5. Trendiness
Balayage is currently the more trendy of the two techniques. It has been popularized by celebrities such as Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Chrissy Teigen. Highlights, on the other hand, have been around for longer and are still a popular choice for those who want a more dramatic, contrasting look.
Which Technique Is Right for You?
The best way to decide which technique is right for you is to consult with a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair type, desired look, and lifestyle to help you choose the technique that is best for you.
Additional Tips for Choosing Between Balayage and Highlights
- Consider your hair type. Balayage is a good choice for all hair types, but it is especially well-suited for fine or thin hair. Highlights can be more damaging to fine hair, so if you have fine hair, balayage is a better option.
- Think about your desired look. Balayage creates a more natural-looking result, while highlights create a more dramatic, contrasting look. If you want a subtle, ombré effect, balayage is a good choice. If you want a more defined, contrasting look, highlights are a better option.
- Consider your lifestyle. Balayage requires less maintenance than highlights, so if you don’t have a lot of time to spend on your hair, balayage is a good choice. Highlights need to be touched up more frequently, so if you are willing to put in the extra time and effort, highlights are a good option.
Conclusion
Balayage and highlights are both beautiful hair coloring techniques that can create a variety of different looks. The best way to decide which technique is right for you is to consult with a professional hairstylist.