You’ve probably heard or seen the term “balayage” in salons, on Instagram, fashion magazines or a friend who just got their hair done! When this word started trending it became confusing to know if balayage was the new best thing or just a fancy words for highlights! First, we want to let you know, you by no means needs to know the technical term of what you’re wanting to do with your hair, that’s our job! We love taking inspiration photos and talking with our clients to customize a look with several different techniques best suited for them! But if you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between balayage and highlights, we’re here to let you know!
Let’s start with our beloved highlights! This blonding technique is a more traditional way of lightening and adding depth to your hair. Highlights are created using foils to help saturate specific pieces of hair from the root to the tip. This technique creates a more higher contrast between the highlighted pieces and your natural color. This also has a maintenance appointment every 6-8 weeks.
Balayage is a French term that refers to a technique used for lightening hair using a more freehand method. Unlike the structure of foil highlighting, with this technique, color is hand-painted onto sections of the hair. This application generally is applied from the mid shaft or middle section of the hair right around the ears giving it a more sweeping look. Foils can be used in between each layer of hair, but aren’t necessary! This technique is very unique and customizable! We recommend finding inspiration pictures to show to your stylist to make sure you’re on the same page! Balayage has become more popular because this technique requires less maintenance. Some balayage clients go 12-16 weeks in between color appointments!
So… which should you choose? When it comes down to balayage vs. highlights, it really is about personal preference and hair type. Live your life girl! We aren’t here to choose for you, but instead to give you all the tools you need to make the decision that’s best for you! And you better believe our expert stylists will be with you every step of the way!