Highlights, Balayage, and Ombres. Which one is the right look for me?!
So the confusion surrounding highlights, balayage, and ombre is so real. What's the difference? Is there a better option for my life style? Is there a more cost effective option? Do they cost the same? I mean, how do you even say balayage??!
Okay, calm down, I'm here to help you! ;)
Highlights:
Defined as: a bright tint to the hair, especially one produced by bleaching or dyeing (aka lightenting or coloring).
So basically a standard highlight technique involves foils and a rat tail comb or weaving comb (one side looks like a metal stick). A highlight will give you exactly that: a lightened piece of hair. Using a weaving or slicing technique will give a beautiful dimensional color that has a grow out time of 4-6 weeks. Usually highlights won't be quite at the scalp but pretty close! One way to soften the grow out is by having a glaze or root tap applied at the root which helps blur that little line you see where the highlight begins. Highlights are a great option if you like a classic, beautiful, higher maintenance look.
Balayage:
Defined as: free painted highlights.
Basically what makes balayage the rage that it is, is that they're free painted onto the hair. You can have color in the exact places that you want. Just looking for brightness around the face? No problem! Just a sun-kissed piece here or there? Totally doable! This technique is great for those looking for very low maintenance color. You pretty much can't get easier color than this to keep up. It's soft, as subtle as you're looking for, and can be used as a color correcting technique. You're looking at coming in every 8 to 12 weeks. This is also a great way to go if you're looking for a slow, safe journey to blonde!
Ombre:
Defined as: an old card game from the 17th and 18th centuries.
So, clearly, that's not how we use it currently. Modern terms translate to a soft graduation of color. Usually, a dark to lighter color. Although, it could go the other way around successfully. This technique is pretty cut and dry. Your ends are one color, your root color is a solid shade as well. This technique is great for those who want touch ups every 6-12 months. If you're just looking for a color change for whatever reason this is a good route to go. Minus the occasional gloss you're set for a long time.
I hope this helps you decide the best route to take in choosing your blonde journey. Remember: what level of maintenance are you willing to commit to? How light are you wanting to go? Are you more of a classic blonde gal or an alternative blondie? :)
Happy blonding!
