Highlights or balayage : which one is the best for me ?
You are about to change your hair color but still not sure which style you should opt for? You are still confused about the differences between highlights or balayage style you have seen everywhere. You may prefer a bold transformation or some more subtle change. We are here to help you. Let’s see together what is going to fit you best !
What is Balayage?
Balayage comes from the French word “balayer”, meaning “to sweep”.
It is a hair colouring technique, that involves to hand-paint hair bleach and dye on random portions of the hair surface for a blended sun-kissed result.
Balayage isn’t a look, it is a technique. Traditionally without using foil, parts of the hairs are bleached in V shape motion. It can be applied as a full balayage throughout your hair for a lighter look with minimal maintenance on the roots. However, the use of foil may be necessary especially for dark hairs, for a better render. As originally the technique was used on blonde to brown hairs, that lift much easier with bleach.
The recommended hair colour for balayage is usually a few shades lighter than your hair colour to give your locks a natural depth and dimension.
What are Highlights?
On the other hand, highlights are generally done from the roots, following a more structural pattern, using a hair dye that is lighter to lift the brightness of your hair strands.
The stylist will use the foil to saturate the hair with a lightener to reach its maximum bright hue. Then a hair colouring solution, or toner color will be applied to close the cuticles and reach the shades requested.
As the patterns is more structured than a more natural balayage, it will require more touch up and maintenance.
Balayage vs Highlights: What’s the Difference?
Balayage and highlights are two popular styles for decades, but still quite unknown in details by general public.
They are usually designed to add dimension and depth to the hair. Similar in some ways, they are quite different though in terms of technique, result, and maintenance.
different technique
Balayage is originally assimilated as a freehand painting technique, so the hair dye is often applied on random portions of your hair surface. Nevertheless, the technique has evolved to adapt to different types of hairs, and foil can be used as well in some cases.
Meanwhile, highlights requires a structured pattern, with strands sections strategically bleached and lifted with foils, for the expected result.
different results
In balayage, the under section remains dark, giving overall a more natural effect. Therefore, the colour blends seamlessly into your natural hair colour to create a sun-kissed highlights.
Meanwhile, highlights offer a deeper contrast with your natural hair colour base. The results is more structured, and usually starting from the roots.
different maintenance
With the balayage, the color and contrast blends seamlessly into your hairs. As a result, it doesn’t require monthly maintenance with the regrowth parts, as it still looks natural with your roots.
On the other hand, the grown-up roots will start to show and contrast with your highlights after a few months. To mitigate the contrast, it will need regular touch-up to keep it even.
So which one should you choose?
When deciding between balayage and highlights, it will depends on your daily habits, your available time dedicated to maintenance, and your personality. If you want a bolder look, with high contrast, and you don’t mind coming at the salon regularly, then highlights are for you.
However, if you are looking for a more subtle, and natural result, and low-maintenance, you can go for balayage.
Looking to get your hair balayage or highlights done at a hair salon here in Bangkok? Contact NICHE today!
It is always best to come and consult at the hair salon first. There are plenty of hair colouring salons in Bangkok. Although at Niche salon, you are welcome anytime for a free consultation, with no booking required.
At Niche Salon Bangkok, we understand that each client has its own personality and way of life. Therefore, our team emphasizes in offering the most tailored service as possible. Taking the time with the client to get to know what they are looking for, will let our stylists recommend the suited style for them.
