Can’t decide between balayage and highlights? You’re standing in the salon, flipping through photos, feeling stuck.
One technique looks natural. The other looks bold. You want gorgeous hair, but you don’t know which method is right for you. This blog explains balayage vs full highlights in simple terms.
You’ll see how each one works, what it costs, and which one fits your hair type. You’ll also learn how to care for your color once you leave the salon.
Let’s help you choose.
Balayage and Full Highlights Overview
When comparing both the techniques, the main difference is how the color is applied.
Balayage uses a hand-painting method. Your stylist brushes lightener onto sections of your hair. No foils. No strict pattern.
The result? Soft, blended color that looks like natural sun-kissed hair.
And unlike partial highlights, full highlights use foils. Your stylist weaves thin sections of hair, wraps them in foil, and applies lightener. This lifts color evenly from root to tip.
The result? Brighter, more noticeable contrast throughout your hair.
Balayage vs Full Highlights – Key Differences
Below is a quick breakdown of what sets balayage apart from full highlights.
If you are finding it difficult to differentiate between balayage vs. full highlights, the table given below clearly illustrates their differences, making it easier to choose between them.
| Factor | Balayage | Full Highlights |
| Application Method | Hand-painted with a brush. Artistic and custom to your hair. | Foils are used in a systematic pattern across your entire head. |
| Color Placement | Mid-lengths to ends. Roots left darker. Natural light-catching spots. | Root to tip in evenly spaced sections all over your head. |
| Cost | approx. $150-$300 per session | approx. $100-$250 per session |
| Time Needed | 2-3 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Upkeep & Regrowth | Low maintenance. Grows out smoothly. Touch-ups every 3-4 months. | Higher maintenance. Obvious regrowth. Touch-ups every 6-8 weeks. |
Pros and Cons of Balayage
If you’re deciding between balayage vs full highlights, knowing the pros and cons helps you choose the right method.
| Pros | Cons |
| Natural-looking, blended finish | Higher upfront cost |
| No harsh regrowth lines | Needs a skilled stylist |
| Works on all hair types | Less dramatic brightness |
| Low maintenance touch-ups every 3-4 months | Slower to build major lightness |
Pros and Cons of Full Highlights
Full highlights can bring a significant change to your look, but they’re not for everyone.
Clearing out what works and what might challenge you, here is a quick, direct breakdown.
| Pros | Cons |
| All-over brightness | Frequent touch-ups every 6-8 weeks |
| Even color distribution | Obvious regrowth |
| Predictable results | It can look stripy if poorly done |
| Great for covering gray | More potential for damage |
Types of Balayage
Not all balayage looks the same. Here are the most common variations you’ll see in salons.
1. Traditional Balayage: Freehand painting focused on the mid-lengths and ends. Creates a sun-kissed, natural gradient.
2. Full Balayage: More coverage than traditional. Color is painted throughout your entire head, not just the bottom half.
3. Partial Balayage: Focuses on the top layer and face-framing pieces. Great for adding dimension without a significant change.
4. Reverse Balayage: Adds darker tones instead of lighter ones. Used to add depth or correct overly light hair.
5. Foilayage: Combines balayage painting with foils. Gives you a brighter lift while keeping the blended, natural finish.
Types of Highlights
Highlights come in different styles based on placement, thickness, and coverage.
1. Full Highlights: Cover your entire head from roots to ends. Maximum brightness and even color distribution.
2. Partial Highlights: Focus on the top layer and around your face. Less time and cost than full highlights.
3. Babylights: Very fine, delicate highlights that mimic natural childhood hair lightening. Subtle and soft.
4. Chunky Highlights: Thicker sections of color for a bold, statement look. Popular in the early 2000s and making a comeback.
5. Lowlights:Darker pieces added to create depth and dimension, often used with highlights for a more natural blend.
6. Ribbon Highlights: Strategically placed highlights that follow your hair’s natural flow. Creates movement and dimension.
Which Hair Coloring Style to Choose?
Wondering which technique suits you better? It comes down to a few simple things.
What’s your daily hair routine like? What look do you want when you check the mirror?
Balayage suits you if you prefer a soft, natural finish that grows out gently. It works well for anyone who wants lighter pieces without frequent salon visits.
The color sits mainly on the mid-lengths and ends, so the grow-out stays smooth and easy to manage.
Full highlights are the better match if you prefer an even, brighter look from roots to ends.
This method works well for those who want a noticeable lift, especially when starting with darker hair.
Because the color reaches the roots, it needs more regular touch-ups, making it a good fit for people who are comfortable with consistent salon maintenance.
Maintenance Tips for Both Techniques
Once you’ve got your new color, protect it. Here are simple tips to keep it looking fresh.
1. Wash less, preserve more:
Cut back to 2-3 washes per week. Every wash fades your color a little.
Use lukewarm or cool water instead of hot. Wait 48 hours after your salon visit before the first wash.
2. Use the right products:
Switch to sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Sulfates strip color fast.
Add purple shampoo to your routine once a week if you notice yellow or brassy tones.
3. Protect from heat:
Always spray on heat protectant before styling tools. Lower your flat iron and curling iron settings.
Air-dry your hair when you can; less heat means healthier color.
4. Shield:
From sun and chlorine UV rays fade color and create brassiness. Wear a hat in strong sun or use UV-protectant spray.
Before swimming, wet your hair with clean water and wear a swim cap if possible.
5. Deep condition weekly:
Use a hair mask once a week. Color-treated hair needs extra moisture.
This keeps your hair healthy and your color vibrant.
Conclusion
So far, you must be clear about which to choose: balayage vs full highlights.
Pick balayage if you want a natural look with less upkeep. It’s perfect for busy schedules and relaxed styles.
Pick full highlights if you want maximum brightness and don’t mind regular salon visits. It’s ideal for bold, polished looks.
Still unsure? Book a consultation with a stylist. Bring photos of looks you love. They can assess your hair and recommend the best option for you.
What color technique are you leaning toward? Let us know in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Switch from Full Highlights to Balayage?
Yes, absolutely. Many people make this switch to reduce maintenance. Your stylist can blend your existing highlights into a balayage pattern during your next appointment.
2. Will Balayage or Highlights Damage my Hair More?
Full highlights typically cause more damage because they process hair from root to tip with foils. The foil traps heat, which speeds up color development but stresses hair more.
3. Can I do Balayage or Highlights on Already Colored Hair?
It depends on your current color. If you have light-colored hair or subtle dye, both techniques work fine. If you have dark permanent dye, especially box dye, balayage is safer.
