Balayage Vs Highlights

Balayage Vs Highlights: Choose the Best Technique for You

Struggling to decide between Balayage and highlights this summer? Don't sweat it! Mova Salon's Master Stylist and Senior Colourist, Emily, explains the key differences, as well as the pros and cons of each, to help you make the right choice to suit your look and your lifestyle.

Already know which hair colour technique you fancy? Call our Staines Salon on 01784 449 727, or our Virginia Water Salon on 01344 843 500 to make a personalised colour appointment today.

Important: If you’re new to Mova Salons, or haven’t had a colour service with us in the past six months, please arrange a free allergy alert test at least 48 hours before your first appointment.

What Are Highlights?

Highlights are a classic colouring technique where foils are used to lighten selected strands of hair from root to tip. This creates a gorgeous, striking contrast between lighter and darker sections, ideal if you're after a bold and bright result.

"Because colour is applied close to the scalp, highlights give a fresh, lifted look that's especially effective on fine or medium-textured hair," says Emily. "The structured placement also helps to add the illusion of volume and movement, which is perfect if you struggle with hair that feels flat and lacking in contrast."

What is Balayage?

Balayage is a freehand hair-lightening process that creates a soft, natural gradient effect. Unlike highlights, Balayage doesn't start at the roots — instead, colour is painted onto the surface of the hair in sweeping motions, typically starting from the middle of the hair, and becoming lighter toward the ends. This creates a sun-kissed, blended finish that mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun.

"Balayage an ideal choice you're looking for a more relaxed, lived-in look that grows out seamlessly over time, requiring very little maintenance," adds Emily. "So if you want something beautiful, that's easy to look after at home without frequent salon visits, this is the answer."

Balayage Vs Highlights: Pros, Cons & Maintenance

Highlights:

*Pros: Highlights create a bright, bold and striking look, perfect if you want to get heads turning!

*Cons: This colour technique requires regular upkeep, as roots become visible as they grow out.

*Maintenance: You'll need to schedule regular touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks to keep your highlights looking healthy and bright.

Balayage:

*Pros: Balayage is a low-maintenance style that looks natural even as your locks grow out.

*Cons: This technique may not show as dramatically on darker hair, or may take longer to apply.

*Maintenance: You only need to come in for a touch-up once every 3 to 6 months.

Which Technique is Right for You?

Choosing between Balayage and highlights will depend on your unique hair goals, personal style and how much time you’re willing to commit to home maintenance. Emily adds that, "If you’re after a polished, high-contrast finish and don’t mind regular salon visits, traditional highlights are for you — especially if you want to go several shades lighter or make a dramatic change."

On the other hand, Balayage offers a softer, more natural look that can be blended with your base hair colour. This style is lower-maintenance, grows out more subtly, and is ideal for anyone who prefers a relaxed, beachy effect without frequent maintenance.

"Ultimately", Emily concludes, "both highlights and Balayage are highly customisable techniques, and a consultation with one of our expert Mova colourists will help us to tailor the final look to complement your skin tone, hair texture and lifestyle."

Get Beautiful Balayage or Bold Highlights Today

Ready to get the beautiful Balayage or bold highlights you've been dreaming of? Call our Staines salon on 01784 449 727 or our Virginia Water branch on 01344 843 500 to start your hair colour journey with us today.