WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT HIGHLIGHTS AND BALAYAGE?
Emma Justine Stylist
When it comes to hair color technique, two of the most popular options are traditional highlights and the balayage technique. Both can be used to add dimension and depth to colored hair, but they achieve the look in very different ways.
These hair coloring techniques have taken the beauty industry by storm, and for a good reason. Balayage and highlights are both effective ways to make the hair lighter while adding dimension to your hair.
In this article, we’ll delve into what makes highlights and balayage so special, how they differ from each other, and why you should consider them for your next hair color appointment. So sit back, relax, and prepare to learn everything you need to know about these transformative hair color techniques.
Traditional Highlights
Traditional foil highlights involve sectioning off hair strands and wrapping them in foil to apply a lightener, resulting in a stark contrast between the colored hair and highlights.
The technique is ideal for those with a darker color, as it can lift the hair strands to a lighter shade. Foiled highlights also give more control to the stylist, allowing them to place the highlights exactly where they want them.
However, traditional highlights can sometimes result in brassy tones, especially with deeper natural hair colors.
Balayage Technique
On the other hand, balayage involves a freehand painting technique that creates a more natural-looking result. So as mentioned, balayage is a technique, not a look.
Balayage highlights are strategically placed to add dimension and depth without a harsh line of demarcation, making it a popular choice for those who want subtle highlights or want to go lighter without drastic change.
When applied correctly, balayage can often be mistaken for natural hair color. The technique is best suited for already lightened hair or those with blonde hair.
Balayage vs Highlights
When deciding between balayage vs highlights, it’s important to consider the desired end result. Balayage highlights tend to create a more natural look, while traditional highlights can be more dramatic. Balayage is ideal for those looking for a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect, while traditional highlights can be used to create dramatic dimension or darker highlights. It’s also important to keep in mind that the highlighting process can be damaging to hair, so it’s important to use a stylist who has experience with the technique and who can minimize damage as much as possible.
Which Hair Color is the Best for the Balayage and Highlights?
Color-treated hair, especially blonde hair, is a particularly good candidate for both traditional foil highlights and balayage. With traditional highlights, the hair can be lifted to a lighter shade, while with balayage, a gradual lightening process can create a more natural-looking result. Both techniques can also be used to neutralize warm tones in the hair, creating a more balanced, even color.
For those looking to enhance their facial features, face-framing highlights are a popular choice. Balayage and traditional foil highlights can both be used to enhance the face shape.
It’s also important to note that the lightning process can result in red and orange zones, especially for dark hair. A skilled stylist will be able to neutralize these tones to achieve the desired color result. Neutralizing warm tones is also important for those with already lightened hair, as it can prevent unwanted brassiness and result in a more natural color.
How to Choose?
Ultimately, the best hair color technique for you will depend on your individual preferences and goals. If you want a more natural, subtle look, balayage is likely to be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a more dramatic change, traditional foil highlights may be more suitable. Both techniques offer different benefits, and a skilled stylist can help you choose the technique that will give you the best result.
No matter which technique you choose, a skilled stylist can help you achieve the perfect look. With the right application, traditional foil highlights or balayage can add dimension, depth, and a new level of style to your hair. Whether you want to go lighter or darker, achieve face-framing highlights or a more natural look, balayage and highlights offer endless options to enhance your hair color and your overall look.
In conclusion, balayage has come a long way from its origins as a technique and has emerged as a distinct and highly sought-after look in the world of hair aesthetics. Its evolution has blurred the lines between balayage and traditional highlights, making it difficult to differentiate between the two. Nowadays, achieving those enchanting sun-kissed locks involves a skillful blend of these techniques. That’s why your hairstylist will likely employ a blend of these techniques, seamlessly combining them to create a stunning result that complements your natural beauty.
Book online your next appointment at Emma Justine Salon and finally achieve your hair goals!
