Partial vs Full Highlights: Which is Right for You?

When it comes to hair highlights, there are two main types: partial and full. Partial highlights are applied to just a few strands of hair, while full highlights are applied to all of the hair. Both types of highlights can add color and dimension to your hair, but they each have their own unique benefits and drawbacks.

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Partial Highlights

Partial highlights are a great option if you want to add a subtle pop of color to your hair. They can also be used to create a natural-looking sun-kissed effect. Because only a few strands of hair are highlighted, partial highlights are less damaging to your hair than full highlights. They are also generally less expensive.

Full Highlights

Full highlights are a good choice if you want to achieve a more dramatic look. They can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle to bold. Full highlights are more damaging to your hair than partial highlights, and they can also be more expensive.

partial vs full highlights

Which Type of Highlights is Right for You?

The type of highlights that is right for you depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you want a subtle, natural-looking change, partial highlights are a good option. If you want a more dramatic look, full highlights are a better choice.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between partial and full highlights:

Partial vs Full Highlights: Which is Right for You?

  • Your hair type: Partial highlights are a good option for all hair types, but they are especially well-suited for fine or thin hair. Full highlights can be too heavy for fine or thin hair, and they can make it look limp.
  • Your budget: Partial highlights are generally less expensive than full highlights.
  • Your time: Full highlights take longer to apply than partial highlights.

Pain Points of Partial vs Full Highlights

Partial Highlights

Partial Highlights

  • Can be difficult to achieve an even distribution of highlights
  • May not be as noticeable as full highlights
  • Can be more time-consuming to apply than full highlights

Full Highlights

  • Can be more damaging to hair than partial highlights
  • Can be more expensive than partial highlights
  • Can make hair look brassy if not applied correctly

Motivations for Getting Partial vs Full Highlights

Partial Highlights

  • To add subtle dimension and color to hair
  • To create a sun-kissed effect
  • To refresh existing highlights

Full Highlights

  • To achieve a more dramatic look
  • To cover gray hair
  • To correct color mistakes

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Highlights

  • Not getting a consultation: Before getting highlights, it is important to consult with a professional hairstylist to discuss your goals and hair type.
  • Choosing the wrong color: The color of your highlights should complement your skin tone and hair color.
  • Going too light: Highlights that are too light can look unnatural and brassy.
  • Over-processing your hair: Over-processing can damage your hair and make it dry and brittle.

Pros and Cons of Partial vs Full Highlights

Feature Partial Highlights Full Highlights
Cost Less expensive More expensive
Time Less time to apply More time to apply
Damage to hair Less damaging More damaging
Effect Subtle Dramatic

4 Useful Tables for Partial vs Full Highlights

Feature Partial Highlights Full Highlights
Cost $50-$200 $100-$300
Time 1-2 hours 2-4 hours
Damage to hair Low Moderate
Effect Subtle Dramatic
Feature Partial Highlights Full Highlights
Best for hair type Fine or thin hair Thick or coarse hair
Best for goals Subtle change Dramatic change
Best for budget Less expensive More expensive
Best for time Less time More time
Feature Partial Highlights Full Highlights
Pros Subtle, natural-looking, less damaging More dramatic, can cover gray hair, can correct color mistakes
Cons Can be difficult to achieve an even distribution, may not be as noticeable, can be more time-consuming to apply More damaging, more expensive, can make hair look brassy if not applied correctly
Feature Partial Highlights Full Highlights
Tips Ask for a consultation before getting highlights, choose the right color, don’t go too light, don’t over-process your hair Ask for a consultation before getting highlights, choose the right color, don’t go too light, don’t over-process your hair