If you’re considering giving your brown hair a refresh, you’ve probably come across the terms “balayage” and “highlights.” While both techniques can create beautiful, sun-kissed strands, there are some key differences between the two.
In this article, we’ll break down the 9 most important distinctions between brown hair balayage and highlights. So, whether you’re trying to achieve a natural-looking glow or a bolder, more dramatic look, you can make an informed decision about which technique is right for you.
1. Application Technique
Balayage:
- Freehand painting technique
- Hair is sectioned and lightener is applied to individual strands
- Creates a gradual, natural-looking blend of lighter and darker tones
Highlights:
- Traditional foiling technique
- Hair is wrapped in foil packets with lightener applied
- Produces more defined, contrasting sections of lighter hair
2. Type of Color
Balayage:
- Typically uses natural-looking shades that complement your base color
- Aims to create a subtle, dimensional effect
- Can be customized to create a variety of looks, from soft and warm to bold and cool
Highlights:
- Can use a wider range of colors, including brighter, more unnatural tones
- Often creates a more noticeable, contrasting effect
- Can be used to add a touch of color or create a more dramatic transformation
3. Placement
Balayage:
- Lightener is applied to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair
- Creates a sun-kissed effect that looks like it’s been naturally lightened by the sun
- Can be placed strategically to frame the face or enhance certain features
Highlights:
- Lightener can be applied to any part of the hair, including the roots
- Can create a variety of looks, from subtle to bold
- Typically placed in more defined sections throughout the hair
4. Maintenance
Balayage:
- Lower maintenance than highlights
- Gradual blending means touch-ups are less noticeable
- Can last up to 6 months or longer with proper care
Highlights:
- Higher maintenance
- Roots will need to be touched up every 6-8 weeks
- Can become damaged if not cared for properly
5. Cost
Balayage:
- Typically more expensive than highlights
- Requires a higher level of skill and experience to perform
- Can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the length and thickness of your hair
Highlights:
- Less expensive than balayage
- More common and easier to perform
- Can range from $50 to $200 or more
6. Damage
Balayage:
- Can cause less damage than highlights
- Lightener is applied to fewer strands and for a shorter amount of time
- Balayage artists use techniques to minimize damage
Highlights:
- Can cause more damage than balayage
- Lightener is applied to more strands and for a longer amount of time
- Foil packets can create heat and stress on the hair
7. Longevity
Balayage:
- Can last up to 6 months or longer
- Gradual blending means touch-ups are less noticeable
- With proper care, balayage can maintain its vibrancy for an extended period
Highlights:
- Typically lasts for 2-3 months
- Roots will need to be touched up every 6-8 weeks
- Highlights can become dull or brassy over time if not properly cared for
8. Versatility
Balayage:
- Versatile technique that can be customized to create a variety of looks
- Can be used on all hair types and textures
- Suitable for both subtle and bold color transformations
Highlights:
- Less versatile than balayage
- Can be limiting on certain hair types and textures
- May not be suitable for creating very natural-looking results
9. Personal Preference
Balayage:
- Ideal for those who want a natural-looking, low-maintenance color
- Suitable for all hair types and textures
- Can be customized to complement any skin tone
Highlights:
- Better for those who want a more dramatic, contrasting color
- Can add a touch of color or create a more noticeable transformation
- May not be suitable for all hair types or textures
What’s Right for You?
Ultimately, the best way to decide between brown hair balayage and highlights is to consult with a professional hair colorist. They can assess your hair type, texture, and desired results to recommend the technique that is right for you.
If you’re looking for a natural-looking, low-maintenance color that will enhance your natural beauty, balayage may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a more dramatic, contrasting color that will add a touch of glamour, highlights may be the way to go.
No matter which technique you choose, be sure to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your hair colorist to ensure that your new color lasts as long as possible.
Additional Tips for Choosing Between Balayage and Highlights
- Consider your lifestyle and personality. Balayage is a good choice for those who want a low-maintenance color that will look good even as it grows out. Highlights require more frequent touch-ups, so they may be better suited for those who are willing to commit to regular salon visits.
- Think about your hair type and texture. Balayage is a good choice for all hair types and textures, but it can be particularly flattering on fine hair. Highlights can be more damaging, so they may not be a good choice for those with thin or fragile hair.
- Do your research and find a reputable salon with experienced colorists. A good colorist will be able to help you achieve the look you want and minimize damage to your hair.
- Bring pictures of inspiration to your consultation. This will help your colorist understand your desired results and make sure you’re both on the same page.
- Be patient and realistic. It may take multiple sessions to achieve your desired look, especially if you’re starting with dark hair.
With a little research and planning, you can find the perfect hair color technique to enhance your natural beauty and make you feel confident and beautiful.