As a professional stylist, I have seen many clients come in asking for either balayage or highlights, but not always understanding the differences between the two. Both techniques can achieve beautiful results, but they are not interchangeable. In this guide, I will break down the pros and cons of each technique, factors to consider when deciding between them, and how to communicate your desired look to your stylist.
Understanding the difference between balayage and highlights
Balayage and highlights are both hair coloring techniques that involve lightening sections of hair, but they achieve different results. Balayage is a newer hair coloring technique that involves hand-painting the hair to create a natural, sun-kissed look. The color is applied in a sweeping motion, starting at the mid-shaft and gradually getting lighter towards the ends. This technique creates a subtle, graduated effect that mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun.
Highlights, on the other hand, involve using foils to isolate sections of hair to be lightened. The foil keeps the color from bleeding onto other sections of hair, resulting in a more dramatic, defined look. Highlights can be applied in a variety of patterns, such as a full head of highlights or just framing the face.
Pros and cons of balayage
Balayage has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its natural-looking results. Because the color is applied by hand, there is no harsh line of demarcation between the lightened and unlightened sections of hair. This means that as the hair grows out, the roots blend seamlessly with the rest of the hair. Balayage also requires less maintenance than highlights, as the color grows out more naturally.
However, balayage can be more difficult to achieve on some hair types. It works best on hair that is already lightened or naturally light, as it is harder to achieve a dramatic effect on darker hair. Balayage also requires a skilled stylist who is experienced in the technique, as it can be difficult to achieve the desired result without creating a harsh line.
Pros and cons of highlights
Highlights are a tried and true hair coloring technique that has been popular for decades. They can add dimension and depth to hair, creating a more dramatic look than balayage. Because the color is applied using foils, highlights can be more precise than balayage, allowing for more control over the final result.
However, highlights require more maintenance than balayage. As the hair grows out, the roots become more noticeable, creating a harsh line of demarcation between the lightened and unlightened sections of hair. This means that highlights need to be touched up more frequently than balayage.
Balayage vs highlights: Which one is right for you?
When deciding between balayage and highlights, there are several factors to consider. The first is the look you are trying to achieve. If you want a more natural, subtle look, balayage may be the way to go. If you want a more dramatic, defined look, highlights may be a better choice.
The second factor to consider is your hair type and color. Balayage works best on hair that is already lightened or naturally light, while highlights can work on a wider variety of hair types and colors.
Finally, consider your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. Balayage requires less maintenance than highlights, so if you have a busy lifestyle or prefer a more low-maintenance look, balayage may be the better choice.
Factors to consider when choosing between balayage and highlights
When deciding between balayage and highlights, there are several factors to consider:
- The look you are trying to achieve
- Your hair type and color
- Your lifestyle and maintenance preferences
It’s important to communicate your desired look to your stylist and take into account their professional opinion on what will work best for your hair.
Maintenance and upkeep for each technique
Maintenance and upkeep are important factors to consider when choosing between balayage and highlights. Balayage requires less maintenance than highlights, as the color grows out more naturally. It is recommended to touch up balayage every 6-12 months, depending on how fast your hair grows.
Highlights, on the other hand, require more maintenance. They need to be touched up every 6-8 weeks to avoid a harsh line of demarcation between the lightened and unlightened sections of hair. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, so it’s important to take into account your lifestyle and budget when deciding between the two techniques.
How to communicate your desired look to your stylist
To ensure that you get the look you want, it’s important to communicate your desired look to your stylist. Bring in pictures of the color you want, and be specific about the placement and intensity of the color. Your stylist can help you determine whether balayage or highlights will work best for your hair type and color.
Balayage vs highlights for different hair types and colors
Balayage and highlights can work on a variety of hair types and colors, but they may achieve different results. Balayage works best on hair that is already lightened or naturally light, while highlights can work on a wider variety of hair types and colors.
For those with darker hair, highlights may be the better choice to achieve a more dramatic effect. Balayage can still work on darker hair, but it may require more sessions to achieve the desired result.
Frequently asked questions about balayage vs highlights
Q: Will balayage damage my hair? A: Balayage, when done correctly, should not damage your hair. However, it’s important to go to a skilled stylist who is experienced in the technique to avoid any potential damage.
Q: Can I get balayage or highlights if I have short hair? A: Yes, both techniques can work on short hair. Your stylist can help you determine the best placement and intensity of the color for your hair length.
Q: How do I maintain my balayage or highlights? A: Balayage requires less maintenance than highlights, but both techniques require regular touch-ups to maintain the desired look. It’s important to use color-safe shampoo and conditioner to prolong the life of your color.
Conclusion: Which one is the winner?
When it comes to choosing between balayage and highlights, there is no clear winner. Both techniques can achieve beautiful results, but they have different pros and cons. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the look you are trying to achieve, your hair type and color, and your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
If you’re still unsure which technique is right for you, call 0161 410 0602 to book a consultation with a professional stylist. They can help you determine the best option for your hair and answer any questions you may have.
