Balayage vs. Highlights: What's the Difference

The time has come for one of the most important discussions EVER: Balayage vs. Highlights. While highlights have had their moment (or many moments for that matter), balayage is the new kid in town that almost no one can pronounce right. (Its bah-lee-ahge fyi). 

If you're a complete highlight enthusiast, you've probably tried to avoid this new technique for dear life. But we have some good news: there is nothing to fear! If you’ve been thinking about taking the leap but you're still iffy whether or not it will be worth it, we have all the information you need for your color dilemma. 

The Painting Technique

While foil is an old-school thing, we can't knock it. It has stood the test of time and given many true hair confidence. 

The main difference between regular highlights and balayage is the technique. For highlights, foil is used. In turn, the foil helps lighten the hair all the way from the root to the ends. However, the painting technique, known as balayage, helps "mute" the color at the root and progressively becomes lighter. What is the result? A more natural, even color (Hallelujah! No more zebra strips). 

In addition, balayage doesn't create a big scene the way traditional highlights do when the color grows out. Instead of a super obvious color divide, balayage's freestyle technique allows for an unnoticeable grow-out. In fact, you can go months without ever touching it up, which means it's better on your purse. 

While highlights are still on the radar, stylists everywhere recognize that balayage is here to stay. 

If you are thinking, "Hmm, I may want to try this for myself," we have a chair waiting with your name on it. A more natural look that is easier to keep up sounds like heaven to us.