Difference Between Balayage And Highlights (Explained)

Balayage and highlights are two popular hair lightening techniques. But what exactly is the difference between them? In this article, we will explore the contrasting characteristics of balayage and highlights, helping you understand which technique is best for achieving your desired hair color. So, let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• Balayage involves hand-painting or “sweeping” highlights onto random sections of hair, creating a natural sun-kissed glow.
• Highlights, on the other hand, are added using foils to saturate specific strands of hair, resulting in a more structured pattern of lightened hair.
• The main difference between balayage and highlights is the use of foil in highlights and the more seamless blending in balayage.
• Balayage can be applied as a full or partial technique, while highlights typically require more frequent touch-ups to maintain the contrast between the lightened strands and natural hair color.

What is Balayage?

Balayage is a hair color technique that creates a natural, sun-kissed glow and a seamless blend with the natural hair color. The term “balayage” comes from the French word meaning “to sweep,” which perfectly captures the hand-painted highlights that are a hallmark of this technique. Unlike traditional highlights that involve the use of foils, balayage allows for a more free-form application, resulting in a softer and more natural look.

During the balayage process, the color is applied starting midshaft and becomes denser as it moves toward the ends of the hair. This technique creates a beautiful gradient effect, with the highlights appearing brighter and more concentrated towards the tips. The colors used in balayage are typically a few shades lighter than the base color, adding depth and dimension to the hair.

There are two main types of balayage: full balayage and partial balayage. A full balayage involves applying the highlights throughout all of the hair, while a partial balayage focuses on specific areas, such as the face or the upper portion of the hair. Partial balayage is a great option for those who want a more subtle and face-framing look.

Benefits of Balayage Technique:

• Creates a natural, sun-kissed glow
• Blends seamlessly with the natural hair color
• Adds depth and dimension to the hair
• Can be done as a full or partial technique
• Requires less frequent touch-ups compared to traditional highlights

Drawbacks of Balayage Technique:

• Not suitable for achieving bold or dramatic color changes
• May require multiple sessions to achieve desired results
• Can be more expensive than traditional highlighting techniques

What are Highlights?

Highlights are a popular hair lightening technique that involves using foils to add color to specific strands of hair, creating a more structured pattern of lightened hair. This technique often results in a pronounced contrast between the lightened strands and the natural hair color.

One of the key aspects of highlights is the sectioning technique. Stylists separate strands of hair and wrap them in foils to ensure even distribution and saturation of the color. This precise application method allows for more control over the placement of highlights, resulting in a more defined pattern.

Highlights require regular touch-ups to maintain the contrast and prevent noticeable root growth. Since the color is applied close to the scalp, the regrowth can be more apparent compared to other techniques. However, highlights can also be customized to create different effects and dimensions in the hair, such as babylights for a subtle and natural look or lowlights to add depth and richness.

Highlights involve using foils to add color to specific strands of hair, creating a more structured pattern of lightened hair.” – Hair Stylist

Technique Comparison

When deciding between balayage and highlights, it’s important to understand the differences in technique and the effects they create. Balayage involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair, resulting in a seamless blend and a natural, sun-kissed look. On the other hand, highlights use foils to saturate specific strands of hair, creating a more structured pattern and a pronounced contrast between the lightened strands and natural hair color.

With balayage, the highlights are applied without the use of foils, allowing for more freedom in placement and a softer effect. The hand-painting technique results in a more natural blend, making it ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance color option. In contrast, highlights provide more control and even distribution of color due to the specific sectioning and foiling method. This technique allows for a more defined contrast and is often preferred for adding dimension and brightness to the hair.

Ultimately, the choice between balayage and highlights depends on personal preference and the desired outcome. Balayage is favored for its seamless blend and low-maintenance nature, while highlights offer more control and contrast. It’s essential to consult with a stylist to determine the best technique for your hair and consider factors such as hair color, length, and texture.

Suitability and Maintenance

When it comes to choosing between balayage and highlights, factors like suitability and maintenance play a crucial role. Balayage is known for its low-maintenance nature, making it a great option for those looking for a hair color that requires less upkeep. The hand-painted highlights in balayage create a seamless blend, resulting in a more natural look. This technique is also ideal for face-framing highlights, as it allows for a gradual regrowth that blends effortlessly with the rest of the hair.

On the other hand, highlights require more frequent touch-ups to maintain the pronounced contrast between the lightened strands and the natural hair color. If you prefer a hair color that provides more control and a structured pattern, highlights may be the way to go. They can add dimension and brightness to your hair, but keep in mind that touch-ups will be needed to prevent noticeable root growth.

When considering suitability, balayage is a versatile technique that works well with various hair colors and textures. It can be customized to complement different skin tones, making it a popular choice among many individuals. Highlights, on the other hand, can be tailored based on personal preference and desired level of contrast. They can be used to add subtlety or create a more dramatic effect, depending on the look you’re aiming for.

Balayage Suitability

Low-Maintenance

Face-framing Highlights

Gradual Regrowth

Highlights Suitability

Frequent Touch-ups

Maintenance Tips

• Use sulfate-free products to prolong the longevity of your hair color.
• Protect your hair from excessive heat and sun exposure, as these factors can cause color fading.
• Consider using toning shampoos and conditioners to maintain the vibrancy of your hair color.

Ultimately, the suitability and maintenance requirements of balayage and highlights will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Consult with a professional stylist to determine which technique aligns best with your hair goals and maintenance expectations.

Combination Techniques and Considerations

Stylists often employ a combination of balayage and highlights to achieve personalized results that suit each client’s unique hair goals. One such technique is known as “American tailoring,” which involves starting with traditional foil highlights and then adding balayage highlights in between the foils. This method creates a softer and more blended effect, giving the hair a natural-looking dimension and depth.

Another popular technique is called “foilyage,” which combines the hand-painted balayage technique with the use of foils. Stylists begin by applying balayage highlights to the hair, creating a soft and seamless blend. Then, additional foil accents are strategically placed to add more brightness or contrast. This technique is particularly suitable for those who desire a more dramatic effect while still maintaining a natural and blended look.

When considering a combination of balayage and highlights, it’s essential to take various factors into account. The length of the hair plays a significant role in determining which technique is most suitable. Balayage is often favored for longer hair as it allows for a more gradual and natural-looking blend. On the other hand, highlights can be applied closer to the scalp, making them particularly suitable for shorter hair lengths.

American Tailoring Example

Take a look at this example to better understand how “American tailoring” combines balayage and highlights:

By combining balayage and highlights using the “American tailoring” technique, a stylist can create a beautiful and customized hair color that suits the client’s individual style and preferences.

Length Consideration

When deciding between balayage and highlights, it’s essential to consider the length of your hair. Balayage is particularly well-suited for longer hair, as it allows for a more seamless and natural-looking blend. The hand-painted technique creates soft transitions and adds dimension to the hair, enhancing its length and movement. On the other hand, highlights can be applied closer to the scalp, making them suitable for shorter hair lengths. They can create a more defined contrast and provide a brighter overall effect.

Ultimately, the choice between combining balayage and highlights comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome. Consulting with a professional stylist is crucial to determine the best combination of techniques for your hair type, length, and overall style goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deciding between balayage and highlights is a matter of personal preference. Both techniques offer unique benefits and can be customized to suit different hair colors, textures, and skin tones. Balayage provides a natural and low-maintenance option, creating a sun-kissed glow with seamless blending. On the other hand, highlights offer more control and contrast, allowing for a structured pattern of lightened strands.

To maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair, there are a few maintenance tips to keep in mind. Use sulfate-free products specifically designed for color-treated hair, as they are gentler and help preserve the color. Protect your hair from excessive heat by using heat protectant sprays or serums before styling with hot tools. Additionally, shield your hair from sun exposure by wearing a hat or using UV-protective sprays.

Regular touch-ups are essential to keep your hair looking fresh and to maintain the contrast in highlights. Consult with your stylist on how often you should schedule touch-up appointments based on your desired look and hair growth rate. If you have balayage, consider using toning shampoos and conditioners to help neutralize any brassiness and keep your color looking vibrant.

Ultimately, the choice between balayage and highlights should be based on what you feel most comfortable with and what aligns with your personal style. Whether you prefer the natural blend of balayage or the structured contrast of highlights, both techniques can enhance your hair and give you the desired look you envision.