Due to how they’re utilized, the outcomes range, too: “Balayage is comparatively low upkeep whereas highlights require rather more upkeep and maintenance, as regrowth on the roots might be extra noticeable, requiring extra frequent touch-ups,” Chase explains, including that balayage tends to look “gentle, blended, and extra refined with a gradual lightening impact” whereas highlights are “extra structured and outlined, with distinct lighter sections that begin from the roots.”
There are additionally variations in how every type grows out: “Balayage has a extra swish develop out because it lives in a vertical areas versus highlights which grows out horizontally,” says Min, who notes that due to this, balayage is usually preferrred for somebody on the lookout for a lived-in, low-maintenance look, whereas highlights could be extra suited to shoppers who need extra pronounced lightness.
Balayage Vs Highlights: Which is true for me?
With regards to selecting which approach to pursue, Lorena M. Valdes, a colourist at Maxine Salon, suggests contemplating your hair objectives in addition to your hair’s texture and density. “In case your density will get thinner in direction of the ends, it could be a candidate for balayage or a mix, since highlights may end up in a brighter general look faster however may have a number of periods to get the ends totally saturated,” she explains.
However, Renée’s selection between the 2 usually depends upon the extent of lightness and the specified last look. Simply keep in mind, the lighter you go, the extra maintenance required, which might doubtlessly be extra damaging on hair. Min thinks the easiest way to determine is to consider how a lot upkeep you wish to decide to, the general look you’re going for, and your current color historical past. (That is particularly vital for those who field dye your hair.)
“If you would like one thing that grows out extra naturally and requires fewer touch-ups, balayage is good, however for those who favor a brighter, extra uniform color, or for those who like a noticeable change between your base color and the lighter items, highlights are an incredible selection,” Min says, including that typically a mix of each works very well, particularly if you would like dimension however with pops of brightness.
One of the best candidates for balayage
“Balayage works effectively for nearly all hair varieties, nevertheless it’s particularly nice for these with medium to lengthy hair, because the approach actually shines when there’s size to work with,” says Min. “It’s additionally preferrred for individuals who need low-maintenance color for the reason that softer transitions in balayage imply you don’t want to the touch up as typically as with conventional highlights. It’s good for somebody on the lookout for a pure, sun-kissed impact.”
One of the best candidates for highlights
“Highlights are incredible for anybody wanting so as to add dimension and brightness to their hair. This method works effectively on all hair varieties, nevertheless it’s particularly useful for these with shorter hair or those that favor a extra structured, uniform lightness all through,” says Min.
“Should you like your color to be noticeable, or for those who’re aiming for a high-contrast look, highlights are an incredible possibility. It’s additionally an incredible possibility if somebody has earlier throughout (darkish) color because the foils will assist to interrupt by means of a number of the built-up color higher in some circumstances than with balayage (depends upon the general desired outcome).”
Consultants universally advise consulting with a hair care skilled. “To find out which approach is most flattering, it’s important to have an in depth session together with your colourist,” Renée asserts. “They may help assess what aligns together with your objectives and is finest suited in your life-style and upkeep dedication.”
Sustaining balayage and highlights
Whereas the appliance strategies might differ, balayage and highlights upkeep is just about the identical. “For any lightening service, correct dwelling care is essential to sustaining your color and defending your funding,” says Renée, whose color care merchandise of selection embrace R+Co Sundown Blvd Every day Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner and Gemstone Colour Shampoo and Conditioner.
“For sustaining each balayage and highlights, I all the time suggest a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner that’s colour-safe,” Min says. “Considered one of my go-to merchandise is the L’Oréal Professionnel Steel Detox – it neutralises metals within the hair (which all of us have because of water), leading to stronger hair that’s much less uninteresting and extra manageable.” For shoppers with blonde or lighter highlights nevertheless, Kim suggests a purple shampoo just like the L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Skilled Silver Shampoo to neutralise any undesirable brassiness.
“Moreover, an excellent hair masks just like the L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Restore Masks is important to maintain hair nourished and hydrated between salon visits,” she provides.
Danielle Sinay is affiliate magnificence editor at GLAMOUR. Observe her on Instagram @daniellesinay.
This function initially appeared on GLAMOUR US.