Balayage and highlights are two popular techniques used to add dimension and colour to hair. Each method offers a unique way to achieve a different look, whether you're aiming for subtle sun-kissed highlights or a more defined contrast. Understanding how these techniques work can help you decide which one suits your style and preferences best.
What is Balayage?
You might have heard a lot about "balayage" lately, but what exactly is it? Balayage is a technique for colouring hair that started in the 1970s and became popular in the United States in the 1990s. The word "balayage" comes from French and means "to sweep". Unlike traditional methods using foils, balayage involves painting colour onto sections of hair with a sweeping motion, creating a natural, sun-kissed look.
One of the reasons balayage is so popular is because it gives hair a subtle, blended appearance, especially at the ends. Even though it looks effortless, achieving the perfect balayage takes skill and an artistic eye. A stylist carefully considers your hair's texture and how it moves, placing colour in a way that enhances your natural features.
Balayage is known for being low-maintenance yet stylish, blending seamlessly with your own hair colour. Whether you want a slight change or a dramatic look, balayage offers a personalized approach to hair colouring that enhances your overall appearance naturally.
What are Highlights?
Highlights have a surprisingly long history, dating back to around 4 B.C. when Ancient Greeks first experimented with lightening hair. They used a mixture of gold flakes, olive oil, and pollen, applying it to hair and then sunbathing for hours. Despite being time-consuming and not very effective, this method persisted for centuries.
Modern highlights, as we know them today, began to take shape in the early 20th century. Foil highlighting, introduced in the 1980s, replaced the older method of using a highlighting cap. Foil highlights allow hairstylists more flexibility in creating natural-looking effects by strategically placing colour.
If you're already blonde and looking for a subtle change, you might consider "low lights". Similar to highlights but using darker colours instead of bleach, low lights can gradually transition hair to a darker shade or simply introduce a bit of variety. For example, you can choose a brown red dye for a fire-y look, or a more natural colour like blonde natural to begin with.
What Makes Highlights Different from Balayage?
One of the biggest advantages of getting a balayage is its low maintenance. Unlike traditional highlights that can create harsh lines as your hair grows out, balayage blends seamlessly as it grows, allowing you to extend the time between salon visits. A toner service about six weeks after your balayage appointment can help keep your colour fresh, and it's a simple and economical option.
If you're unfamiliar with toners, they're like a colour glaze that helps prevent your hair from turning brassy or too cool, without the use of permanent colour. They're cost-effective and can help maintain your ideal blonde shade.
However, balayage can be on the pricier side and require a significant time commitment. Due to the intricate technique and amount of colour applied, appointments can cost more and can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. The cost reflects the skill required and considerations like your hair's natural colour, thickness, length, and texture.
In contrast, traditional highlights require regular maintenance. After your initial appointment, it's common to schedule touch-ups every 6 weeks to keep your look fresh. Skipping these appointments can lead to noticeable grow-out. Despite the upkeep, highlights are generally more budget-friendly than balayage.
Similarities Between Balayage and Highlights
Balayage and highlights are both popular ways to lighten your hair and create a sun-kissed appearance. While they differ in their application techniques, they ultimately aim to achieve similar results. The main distinction between these two services lies in how the colour is applied.
Regardless of whether you opt for balayage or traditional highlights, it's crucial to care for your hair both before and after your appointment. Proper maintenance ensures your hair stays healthy and vibrant, enhancing the longevity and beauty of your chosen colour treatment.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between balayage and highlights can be a challenging decision because they offer similar results with subtle differences. The key factor in making your choice often boils down to your commitment to salon visits. If you're someone who can make time every 6-8 weeks for maintenance, highlights might be ideal. They require regular touch-ups but are generally more affordable over time.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more low-maintenance approach after an initial investment, balayage could be the better option. While it may initially cost more and take longer at the salon, the grow-out is more seamless, allowing you to go longer between appointments.
Consider your lifestyle and how much time and money you're willing to invest in upkeep. Whether you choose balayage or highlights, both can enhance your look beautifully. It's about finding the balance that suits your style and fits into your routine effortlessly. So, take your time, weigh your options, and go with what feels right for you!
Balayage and Highlights Hair Care Tips
Taking care of your hair after getting balayage or highlights is crucial because both involve using bleach, which can seriously damage your hair. Bleach, especially low-quality ones, can leave your hair feeling dry, brittle, and prone to breakage if used too frequently. To avoid this, it's essential to pamper your hair with a quality hair oil and switch to gentler shampoos that don't strip your hair of moisture.
After your balayage or highlights, it's smart to switch to a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for colour-treated hair. These products help preserve your new colour and keep it looking vibrant longer. Adding a leave-in conditioner can provide extra hydration and protection.
If you're maintaining blonde highlights or balayage, using a purple shampoo once a week can help counteract any unwanted brassiness and keep your blonde tones cool and fresh between salon visits.
Remember to give your hair time to recover between colouring sessions by spacing out your appointments. This allows your hair to regain strength and minimize damage from chemical treatments. With the right care routine, your balayage or highlights can stay gorgeous and healthy-looking for longer.