What Is the Difference Between Highlights and Balayage?
Two Techniques, Two Different Looks
When clients come into Salon Novo asking for lighter hair, the first question we ask is: do you want uniform brightness or natural, sun-kissed dimension? The answer usually tells us whether highlights or balayage is the better fit.
How Traditional Highlights Work
Highlights use foils to isolate individual sections of hair and lift them to a lighter shade. The foil keeps the lightener contained, which means clean, precise placement. The result is even, consistent brightness from root to tip.
Highlights are ideal if you want:
- Maximum lightness and contrast
- Even color from roots to ends
- A more polished, uniform look
How Balayage Works
Balayage is a freehand painting technique. Your stylist sweeps lightener onto the surface of your hair in a way that mimics how the sun naturally lightens it. The color is concentrated at the mid-lengths and ends with softer, subtler deposits near the roots.
Balayage is ideal if you want:
- A natural, lived-in look
- Softer grow-out with no hard lines
- Fewer maintenance appointments
- Dimension that works with your natural base
Can You Combine Both?
Absolutely. Many of our clients at Salon Novo get a combination — foil highlights near the face for brightness and balayage through the rest for depth and movement. Your stylist will customize the technique based on what suits your hair and your goals.
Which Costs More?
At Salon Novo, dimensional highlighting starts at $125 and balayage starts at $145. The final price depends on hair length, thickness, and the level of lightening involved. We will always give you a clear estimate during your consultation — no surprises.
Want to know how to maintain your color after the appointment? See our tips for keeping hair color vibrant between visits.
Curious which technique is right for you? Book a color consultation at Salon Novo and we will map out a plan together.