Is there a difference between balayage and highlights?
Add a little fun and flair to your hair this year with colour! Colour brings depth and dimension to hair, and can add volume and vibrancy to limp hair. Have you been thinking about adding a little colour to your hair but aren’t sure which technique is best? You’ve likely heard of highlights but how about balayage? Is there a difference between them? We’re here to help clear up any confusion and help you decide which one is right for you.
Most of us are probably familiar with the look and application of hair highlights. A stylist uses pieces of foil on specific sections of hair to add colour from the root to the tip. This type of hair colouring is well-defined and can provide an amazingly intense colour. It generally lasts for about 6-8 weeks before touch-ups are required as the grow-out can be really noticeable.
Highlights
Uses foils
Well-delineated areas of colour
Can achieve intense hair colour
Lasts 6-8 weeks before touch-up
Balayage (pronounced ball-ay-yahj), is a French term meaning to sweep. This refers to how the colour is applied with the sweep of a brush. Instead of using foils, the stylist will hand-paint colour onto the hair starting anywhere from the roots on down. Balayage offers a multi-tonal, more blended, subtle look that works on all hair textures and types. Colouring lasts 3-6 months but it’s recommended to visit a salon every 8 weeks for a touch-up. This allows for a more natural grow-out.
Balayage
Uses hand-painting
Multi-tonal blend
More subtle/natural
Lasts 3-6 months before touch-up
You’re sure to see many examples of hair highlights or balayage in Vancouver over the next several months as people look to brighten up their mood and surroundings for the winter season. Plus, it’s a new year and the perfect time to kick up your style!
Rush Salon offers colouring services including highlights, partial highlights, balayage and touch-ups. Book an appointment with one of our Colour Designers to talk about which is best for you.