Boise Hair Salon

A Boise Hair Salon Guide to Balayage vs. Highlights

At unDONE Salon, we often get asked about the difference between balayage and highlights and which technique might be the best for our clients. Both methods offer a beautiful way to lighten and add dimension to your hair, but they achieve this in slightly different ways. That’s why we’d like to provide you with the following guide to help you understand these differences so you can decide which option will work best for you.

What is Balayage?

Balayage is a French word meaning “to sweep” or “to paint.” It’s a freehand technique in which the color is applied by hand rather than using the traditional foiling or cap highlighting techniques. Balayage provides a more natural, sun-kissed look with softer, less noticeable regrowth lines. The principal idea behind balayage is to create depth and dimension in the hair.

Pros of Balayage

Natural-Looking Results: Balayage offers a more subtle transition between your natural hair color at the root and the lighter ends.

Low Maintenance: Because the technique offers a more natural grow-out, you won’t have to visit your Boise hair salon as frequently for touch-ups.

Customizable: Balayage can be tailored to suit any hair color or length.

Cons of Balayage

Potentially Higher Cost: Due to the skill and time required, balayage can be more expensive than traditional highlights.

Subtler Lightening: If you’re looking for a dramatic change, balayage might be too subtle for your taste.

What are Highlights?

Highlights involve selecting small or thin strands of hair and lightening them to stand out against the rest of your hair. Typically, foils are used to separate the strands being lightened from the rest of the hair. Highlights can vary in size and intensity but are generally uniform in color from root to tip. This technique can significantly lighten your overall hair color and add vibrancy and dimension.

Pros of Highlights

Dramatic Results: Highlights can significantly change your hair color, making them ideal for those looking for a more noticeable transformation.

Versatility: You can choose from partial highlights (focusing on specific areas, like framing the face) or full highlights (for all-over lightening).

Uniform Color: Highlights provide a consistent color from root to tip.

Cons of Highlights

Maintenance: As your hair grows, the demarcation line becomes more noticeable, requiring more frequent salon visits.

Potential Damage: The process can be more damaging to your hair, especially if you’re going significantly lighter than your natural color.

Which Technique is Right for You?

Choosing between balayage and highlights comes down to your personal style, maintenance preference, and the current condition of your hair. Here are some considerations to help you decide:

Desired Outcome: If you prefer a dramatic and uniform color change, highlights might be your go-to. For a more natural, sun-kissed look, balayage is the way to go.

Maintenance Level: Consider how often you’re willing to visit your Boise hair salon for touch-ups. Balayage generally requires less maintenance than highlights.

Hair Health: If your hair is already damaged, you might want to opt for balayage, as it’s generally considered less damaging than the foil method used for highlights.

Consultation is Key

The best way to decide is to consult with a Boise hair salon stylist. At unDONE, our hair color experts can assess your hair’s condition, discuss your desired outcome, and recommend the best option for you. We’ll take the time to understand your vision to ensure you walk out of our Boise hair salon feeling fabulous and satisfied with your choice.

unDONE – A Trusted Boise Hair Salon

Balayage and highlights are both excellent ways to add depth, dimension, and interest to your hair. The right choice depends on the look you’re aiming for, how often you can commit to salon visits for maintenance, and the health of your hair. Whether you choose the natural, sun-kissed effect of balayage or the dramatic transformation offered by highlights, both techniques can give your hair a beautiful boost. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (208) 287-2010 today.

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