What are Balayage and Highlights?
Balayage is a French hair coloring technique that involves hand-painting hair color onto the hair’s surface. This creates a natural, sun-kissed look that is low-maintenance and easy to grow out.
Highlights are a more traditional hair coloring technique that involves using foils to isolate strands of hair and then applying bleach or hair color. This creates a more dramatic, defined look that requires more upkeep.
Similarities and Differences
| Feature | Balayage | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Hand-painted | Foiled |
| Look | Natural, sun-kissed | Dramatic, defined |
| Maintenance | Low-maintenance | High-maintenance |
| Grow-out | Easy to grow out | Requires touch-ups |
Pros and Cons of Balayage vs. Highlights
Balayage
Pros:
- Natural, sun-kissed look
- Low-maintenance
- Easy to grow out
- Can be customized to flatter any hair color and skin tone
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than highlights
- Takes longer to apply
- May not be as dramatic as highlights
Highlights
Pros:
- Dramatic, defined look
- Can be used to create a variety of looks
- Can be customized to flatter any hair color and skin tone
Cons:
- High-maintenance
- Requires touch-ups
- Can be damaging to hair
- May not be as natural-looking as balayage
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When getting balayage or highlights, it is important to avoid the following mistakes:
- Over-coloring: Getting too much color can damage your hair and make it look unnatural.
- Not getting enough color: Getting too little color will not give you the desired results.
- Choosing the wrong color: The color you choose should flatter your hair color and skin tone.
- Not taking care of your hair: After getting balayage or highlights, it is important to take care of your hair to keep it healthy and looking its best.
How to Choose the Right Technique
The best way to choose the right hair coloring technique for you is to consult with a professional hair stylist. They can assess your hair type, color, and skin tone and recommend the best technique for your desired look.
Cost of Balayage and Highlights
The cost of balayage and highlights varies depending on the length and thickness of your hair, the salon you visit, and the experience of the stylist. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for balayage or highlights.
Conclusion
Balayage and highlights are two popular hair coloring techniques that can create a variety of looks. By understanding the differences between the two techniques and the pros and cons of each, you can choose the best technique for your desired look.