HIGHLIGHTS
Balayage vs highlights? Before we start debating, let’s quickly talk about the difference between each technique. Both are lightening techniques to the hair. Highlights are small sections of hair that are lighter than the base colour (which could be your natural colour or a dyed colour) More often than not the highlights will be a lighter share of your base colour. Highlights can be placed all over the head (not just ends) and are increasingly popular around the face, known as “face-framing highlights” or “money pieces” Highlights are done using foiling techniques and can vary in size although it is increasingly popular to have what is known as “baby-lights” which are very fine highlights that create a natural and softer look and yields a softer regrowth.
BALAYAGE
Balayage is a French word that means ‘to sweep.’ In this technique, the dye is swept or painted onto sections of your hair freehand or foiling. Usually, the dye is applied from the mid shafts to the ends of the hair. Another characteristic feature of a balayage highlights is the way it’s done in revolutions around the head. First, the dye is applied to the bottom most section (near the nape of your neck) of your head. Then, the midsection of your head is worked upon and then the top section of hair is colored right at the end. The ombre effect and lighter ends gives hair that perfectly natural sun kissed look.
the big debate
What is better? Well it really depends on the look you are going for. Balayage adds depth and dimension to your hair while highlights focus on framing your face and accentuating the base colour of your tresses. Highlights follow are more structured pattern and are placed more methodically than Balayage. Balayage is painted or foiled into the hair in larger sections from mid-shafts to ends. General rule of thumb, if you want to be lighter all over, go for a full head of foils that are done by saturating the section of hair right from the roots to the ends. Highlights will yield a more intense lightened look all over whereas Balayage is going to add dimension to the ends while leaving your roots/base as close to natural as possible
MAINTENANCE
This is where Balayage might win the debate. Since highlights are done right from the roots, you will need to keep touching them up every few weeks when they grow out. Since Balayage is not done right from the roots, it grows out more naturally and requires less maintenance. As previously mentioned, if you are someone who loves highlights over Balayage and wanting a more gradual grown-out look than “Babylights” are an option for you. All Epic Hair Designs Brisbane salons provide Balayage and Blonde Foiling Packages to suit many styles and preferences. Check out our packages today and make a booking online.
Share this article