Balayage vs. Highlights: Which Hair Coloring Technique is Right for You?

Find out which technique suits you best

When it comes to transforming your look, few things make as much impact as a fresh new hair color. Two of the most popular techniques in salons today are balayage and highlights. Both have revolutionized the way we think about hair color, offering endless ways to refresh your style. But if you’re caught between the two and wondering which technique is right for you, you’re not alone.

This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of balayage and highlights, from how they’re applied to what kind of maintenance they require, helping you make the best choice for your lifestyle, personality, and hair type.

Understanding Balayage

Balayage isn’t just a coloring technique – it’s an art form. The word itself comes from the French term meaning “to sweep,” a fitting description since balayage is done through a freehand painting method. Instead of using foils or caps, your stylist hand-paints color onto the surface of your hair in sweeping strokes.

The result? A soft, natural look that mimics the way the sun naturally lightens hair over time. Unlike traditional coloring methods that can leave noticeable lines, balayage creates a seamless transition between shades. Your base color and the lighter tones blend beautifully, adding dimension and movement to your hairstyle.

Why clients love balayage:

• Low Maintenance: One of balayage’s biggest selling points is that it grows out gracefully. Since the color isn’t applied directly at the roots, regrowth is less obvious. This makes it ideal for people who don’t want to be in the salon every six weeks.
• Customizable: From subtle caramel accents on brunettes to icy blonde pieces on lighter hair, balayage can be adapted to any shade.
• Works on All Hair Types: Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, balayage enhances texture and adds depth without needing precision placement.
• Natural Finish: Perfect for anyone looking for that “just back from vacation” glow.

If your style leans toward low-effort chic, balayage might be your best match.

Learn more about balayage on our blog.

Embracing Highlights

Highlights, on the other hand, are a more traditional approach to adding dimension. This technique uses foils to section off strands of hair before applying a lightener or color from root to tip. The foils not only keep the lightened strands separate from the rest of your hair, but they also help intensify the lightening effect.

Highlights offer a stronger contrast compared to balayage. They’re the go-to choice if you want a more dramatic difference between your natural color and the lighter pieces woven throughout.

Different types of highlights:

• Traditional Highlights: These are the classic, evenly spaced lighter strands applied throughout your hair.
• Babylights: Ultra-fine highlights that create a subtle, delicate shimmer. Perfect for a softer effect.
• Lowlights: Darker strands added into lighter hair for dimension and depth.
• Chunky Highlights: Bold, statement-making streaks that were especially popular in the ’90s but are making a comeback for those craving a retro vibe.

Why clients choose highlights:

• Defined Contrast: Highlights are great for people who want a noticeable shift in their overall color.
• Great for Short Hair: Since color can be applied closer to the scalp, highlights often work better for shorter cuts than balayage.
• Versatility: With the right placement, highlights can brighten your whole look or add layers of dimension.

The only trade-off? Because highlights start at the roots, regrowth becomes visible faster, meaning touch-ups every 6–8 weeks are usually recommended.

Choosing the Right Technique for You

Both techniques offer unique benefits, so the “best” option depends on your preferences, hair type, and lifestyle. Let’s break it down.

Hair Texture and Type: 

• Balayage: Works beautifully on all textures and lengths, but it really shines on medium-to-long hair where there’s more room for the blended gradient effect to show. Curly and wavy hair especially benefit because the soft placement enhances natural movement.
• Highlights: Can be applied to any texture, but they’re often favored for shorter cuts since foils allow colorists to work close to the scalp for precise, uniform lightening.

Maintenance Level:

• Balayage: Perfect for busy schedules or those who want a fuss-free routine. Because the transition between colors is softer, you can stretch appointments farther apart – sometimes up to 12–16 weeks.
• Highlights: Require more upkeep. Since the contrast is stronger and starts at the root, new growth is more obvious, calling for touch-ups every couple of months.

Color Preference:

• Balayage: Best for those craving a natural, sun-kissed finish. The blended tones make it subtle yet stunning.
• Highlights: Ideal for bold, eye-catching looks. If you love contrast or want to brighten your entire appearance, highlights deliver impact.

Ultimately, both balayage and highlights are versatile techniques that can produce amazing, stunning colored locks you’ll love! The highly skilled colorists at Warren Tricomi understand that your hair is as unique as you are. They can help you determine which method is right for your hair type, maintenance preferences, desired level of contrast, and personal style. Learn more about color application on our blog.

Find stunning color at Warren Tricomi

Your hair is your canvas, and our skilled stylists are the artists ready to bring your vision to life. Whether you opt for the effortless elegance of balayage or the bold definition of highlights, you’ll leave with a head-turning look customized just for you.

Schedule your appointment at one of our locations, serving New York City (Midtown and the Upper East Side), Sag Harbor, and Greenwich.

Learn more about what to expect when visiting a hair color salon like Warren Tricomi on our blog.