Exploring Balayage Vs Highlights: What's The Difference

Written by Anushka ShahAug 14, 2023
Exploring Balayage VS Highlights: What's the Difference

Well, summer is here and if switching up your hair’s hue is on your to-do, we’re not surprised. And neither are taken aback, when hearing about how confused you are as the market is flooded with options to choose from. And two of the hottest techniques RN are balayage and highlights. While both options involve lightening sections of hair, there are some key differences between the two. And to ease the issue, in this article, we'll take a closer look at both, exploring their similarities and differences…all while stating ‘em facts. Hopefully at the end of this read, you’ll know what’s best for you whether you're looking for a subtle change or a dramatic transformation, understanding the differences between these two techniques will give you the clarity you need! 

So, let's dive into the world of balayage hair colour and highlights and discover which option is right for you. 

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

What is Balayage?

First things first, balayage is a French word that means "to sweep" or "to paint." This hair colouring technique involves painting highlights onto the hair, creating a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect. The colour is applied freehand, without the use of foils or caps, allowing for a more gradual and natural-looking transition between the highlights and the base colour! And while all the beauty divas are flaunting their balayage hair colour on the gram - you may be inclining towards getting it - however, you have to be updated on the facts. 

Balayage Fact #1: Low maintenance 

We know you may have out and about if you’ve ever gotten your locks coloured - from touch ups to softening treatments, they all follow. However, when it comes to the balayage hair colour block, it's a low-maintenance option that requires fewer touch-ups than other hair colouring techniques. Wonder why? Because the highlights are painted onto the hair, rather than applied all over, they grow out more seamlessly and require less maintenance. So, even if they grow an inch longer - it’s all a part of the style!

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

Balayage Fact #2: Versatile as ever

Balayage hair colour is also a versatile option that can be customised to suit your unique hair type and personal style. So, whether you have those Rapunzel locks or a wild shag, it can be done on any hair length or texture - all you need is the right vibe (plus willingness to do it) for it promises a super dramatic effect. So, stop the calculations and overthinking - if a balayage hair colour is on your mind, be rest assured you can rock it.

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

Balayage Fact #3: Aftercare required

Considering the hair colour is going to be concentrated at the lower end of your strands, it’s bound to get dry. To keep the broom looking visual at bay, we suggest looking into the aftercare. We say, use a colour-safe shampoo and conditioner to help protect the colour and prevent it from fading. You may also want to use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. By just being mindful, you’ll welcome soft and diva-looking hair.  

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

What are highlights?

PSA: This is my favourite and loved by ladies over generations now. Basic and eye-catching if done right, highlights are a hair colouring technique that involve lightening small sections of hair to create contrast and dimension. This technique typically involves wrapping small sections of hair in foil and applying a lightening agent, such as bleach or hair dye, to create lighter strands within the hair. Highlights can be applied to any hair type or length, and can be used to create a subtle or dramatic effect, depending on the preference of the person getting the highlights. So, now that we’ve highlighted a gist - let’s plunge into the #facts.  

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

Highlighter Fact #1: It’s a wrap

Depending on the colour of your hair and how light you want your highlights, the process of getting them involves applying a lightening agent - such as bleach or hair dye, to the desired sections of hair and wrapping them in foil to keep the agent in place. Which depending on your hair density can be time consuming. Plus, if you don’t give your mane enough aftercare, it could lead to frizzy and dry hair. Hence, we suggest - taking lukewarm water showers, no more than thrice a week and using the right hair food. Keeping these simple steps in mind, the dye damage won’t get to you.  

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

Highlighter Fact #2: Skill required

It's important to work with a skilled and experienced hair stylist to ensure that the process is done effectively, considering the colour needs to be evenly distributed all across the hair sections - hence, it requires effort and skill. So, instead of cutting costs or just running to the fanciest saloon in town, we suggest doing that research and falling back on a hairstylist who is a highlights expert. 

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

Highlighter Fact #3: Tone it right

The right highlights can enhance your natural features and complement your skin tone, while the wrong ones can make you look washed out or overly dramatic. By considering your skin tone and undertones when selecting your highlight colour, you can ensure that the end result is a seamless and complementary blend of tones that enhances your overall look. So, take the time to consult with a skilled hair stylist who can help you choose the perfect highlight shade for your skin tone, and you'll be sure to achieve a stunning and natural-looking result!  

What’s the Difference?    

To condense the differences and give you your answer in a quick glimpse: both balayage hair colour and highlights aim to create contrast and dimension - but there are some key differences between the two. Balayage involves hand-painting the lightening agent onto the hair in a sweeping motion, resulting in a more natural, sun-kissed effect. In contrast, highlights are created by wrapping sections of hair in foil and applying the lightening agent, resulting in a more defined and uniform effect. Balayage also typically involves fewer sections of hair being lightened, while highlights may involve more sections for a more dramatic effect. Ultimately, the choice between balayage hair colour and highlights will depend on your personal preferences, hair type, and desired effect. 

FAQs about Balayage VS Highlights: What's the Difference …

Answering your Qs here.

Q1 Can I get highlights if I have dark hair? 

Yes, highlights can be done on all hair colours, but the process may take longer and require more steps for those with darker hair. 

Q2 What is the difference between partial and full highlights? 

Partial highlights involve lightening only certain sections of hair, while full highlights involve lightening the majority of the hair. Partial highlights are a good option for a more subtle effect or for those who want to try highlights for the first time. 

Q3 Can I get highlights if I have fine hair? 

Yes, highlights can be a great way to add depth and dimension to fine hair. Working with a stylist who is experienced in highlighting fine hair can help ensure that the end result is natural-looking and flattering. 

Anushka Shah

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