Thinking of adding some dimension to your dark hair? Both balayage and highlights are popular techniques that can give you a sun-kissed look. But what’s the difference between the two? And which one is right for you?
Balayage vs Highlights: What’s the Difference?
Balayage is a freehand painting technique that creates a natural, sun-kissed look. The stylist will use a brush to apply lightener to the hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This creates a gradual, blended effect that looks like your hair has been naturally lightened by the sun.
Highlights are a more traditional way to add color to hair. The stylist will use foils to separate sections of hair and then apply lightener to the roots. This creates a more precise, defined look that can be customized to your desired level of brightness.
Which One Is Right for You?
The best way to decide which technique is right for you is to consider your desired look and lifestyle.
Balayage is a good option if you want:
- A natural, sun-kissed look
- Low-maintenance color
- To avoid harsh lines of demarcation
Highlights are a good option if you want:
- A more precise, defined look
- To be able to customize the level of brightness
- To add volume and lift to your hair
Balayage vs Highlights: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Balayage | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Freehand painting | Foils |
| Placement | Mid-lengths and ends | Roots |
| Effect | Natural, sun-kissed look | Precise, defined look |
| Maintenance | Low-maintenance | Higher-maintenance |
| Cost | Typically more expensive than highlights | Typically less expensive than balayage |
The Benefits of Balayage and Highlights
Both balayage and highlights can give you a beautiful, sun-kissed look. But each technique has its own unique benefits.
Benefits of Balayage:
- Creates a natural, blended look
- Low-maintenance
- Avoids harsh lines of demarcation
- Can be customized to suit your desired level of brightness
Benefits of Highlights:
- Creates a more precise, defined look
- Can be customized to suit your desired level of brightness
- Can add volume and lift to your hair
The Drawbacks of Balayage and Highlights
Like any hair treatment, balayage and highlights have their own set of drawbacks.
Drawbacks of Balayage:
- Can be more expensive than highlights
- Can be time-consuming
- May not be suitable for all hair types
Drawbacks of Highlights:
- Can be higher-maintenance than balayage
- Can create harsh lines of demarcation
- Can damage hair if not done properly
How to Choose the Right Stylist
Choosing the right stylist is key to getting the perfect balayage or highlight. Look for a stylist who has experience with the technique you’re interested in and who can understand your desired look.
Here are some tips for choosing the right stylist:
- Ask for recommendations from friends or family members.
- Look at the stylist’s portfolio to see examples of their work.
- Read online reviews to see what other clients have said about their experience.
- Schedule a consultation with the stylist to discuss your desired look and to get a price quote.
Conclusion
Balayage and highlights are both great ways to add dimension and color to dark hair. The best technique for you will depend on your desired look and lifestyle. By understanding the differences between the two techniques, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.