If you’re looking for a way to add some extra light and dimension to your hair, you may be considering babylights or balayage. Both techniques are great for creating a natural-looking sun-kissed effect, but there are some key differences between the two.
1. What Are Babylights?
Babylights are very fine, subtle highlights that are applied all over the head. They’re typically about the same thickness as a strand of hair, and they’re placed very close together. This creates a very soft, natural-looking effect that’s perfect for those who want to add a bit of brightness to their hair without going too drastic.
2. What Is Balayage?
Balayage is a freehand highlighting technique that involves painting on highlights in sweeping motions. The result is a more diffused, lived-in look that’s perfect for those who want to create a more beachy, sun-kissed effect.
3. How Are Babylights and Balayage Applied?
Babylights are applied using a traditional foiling technique. The hair is sectioned off into small sections, and then each section is foiled and highlighted. Balayage, on the other hand, is applied freehand. The hairstylist paints on the highlights in sweeping motions, creating a more natural-looking effect.
4. How Long Do Babylights and Balayage Last?
Babylights and balayage will both last for several months, but the exact amount of time will vary depending on how often you wash your hair and how quickly your hair grows. Babylights will typically last for 3-6 months, while balayage will typically last for 4-8 months.
5. How Much Do Babylights and Balayage Cost?
The cost of babylights and balayage will vary depending on the length of your hair and the experience of the hairstylist. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for babylights and $150 to $600 for balayage.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which hair highlighting technique is right for you is to consult with a hairstylist. They can help you assess your hair type and desired results and recommend the best technique for you.
- Thin hair: Balayage can add volume and body to hair, making it look thicker and fuller.
- Fine hair: Balayage is a great way to add dimension and interest to fine hair without making it look weighed down.
- Curly hair: Balayage can help to define and enhance curls, making them look more bouncy and voluminous.
Pros:
- Balayage can create a very natural-looking sun-kissed effect.
- Balayage is low-maintenance and can last for several months.
- Balayage is a versatile technique that can be customized to suit any hair type or style.
Cons:
- Balayage can be more expensive than other highlighting techniques.
- Balayage can take several hours to complete.
- Balayage can be more difficult to achieve on dark hair.
Pros:
- Babylights are very subtle and natural-looking.
- Babylights are less damaging to hair than other highlighting techniques.
- Babylights are a good option for those who want to add a bit of brightness to their hair without going too drastic.
Cons:
- Babylights can be more time-consuming to apply than other highlighting techniques.
- Babylights may not be as noticeable on dark hair.
- Babylights can be more expensive than other highlighting techniques.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which hair highlighting technique is right for you is to consult with a hairstylist. They can help you assess your hair type and desired results and recommend the best technique for you. However, here are some general guidelines to help you make a decision:
- If you want a very natural-looking sun-kissed effect, balayage is a good option.
- If you have thin or fine hair, balayage can help to add volume and body.
- If you have curly hair, balayage can help to define and enhance your curls.
- If you want a more subtle and low-maintenance highlighting technique, babylights are a good option.
- If you have dark hair, babylights may not be as noticeable as balayage.
- If you are on a budget, babylights are generally less expensive than balayage.