Highlights, balayage, lowlights – highlights? Terms from the world of hair sometimes resemble the vocabulary of an absolutely unfamiliar foreign language. STYLEBOOK has summarized the differences between the different hair coloring methods so that you are well prepared for your next visit to the hairdresser.
If you want more dimension in your hair, you’ve probably thought about highlights. However, the question arises which method of hair coloring is best for you. Do you want a subtle, sun-kissed result or more depth through dark contrasts? STYLEBOOK explains the differences between different types of highlights so you can say exactly what you want the next time you go to the hair salon!
generic term “highlights”
Highlights – probably the best known term in hairdressing parlance and the invasion of different dyeing techniques. Thin strands of dyed hair are worked into the natural hair to give it more dimension and depth. Highlights are traditionally colored using the foil method. The individual sections are separated, treated with hair dye and then wrapped in aluminum foil to prevent the color from drying out. The foil also generates heat which means that the color is better absorbed into the hair. The highlights are generally evenly distributed and can be worked on precisely down to the roots.
Also interesting: how to return to natural hair color
Highlights – “Highlights”
Highlights are a hair coloring technique that lightens individual strands of hair. Light reflections create reflections of light and give the hair a radiant and sun-kissed effect. Hair appears lighter overall, so highlights are an optimal alternative to a complete bleaching. Depending on how intense you want the lightened look to be, you can have the highlights work through the top hair or throughout the hair. On average, highlights are about three to four shades lighter than your natural hair color.
Dark Highlights – “Low Lights”
As you can imagine, low lights are the polar opposite of highlights. Instead of light highlights, darker color nuances are worked into the hair. They add depth, dimension and shade to hair and can darken the overall look. Due to the ombre effect, lowlights visually evoke more body in the hair. You should make sure that you choose only two or three shades darker than your natural hair color to avoid any sharp edges. Because lowlights can be done without bleaching, this hair coloring technique is also relatively gentle and ideal for people with dry ends.
“Babylights” for a natural look
Babylights are a very natural way of coloring highlights. The look is inspired by beautiful children’s hair, which is usually lighter around the face than the rest of the hair. For an especially natural look, streaks shouldn’t be colored more than one or two shades lighter than your natural hair color. The stylist often works the color into the hair freehand using a brush. This creates natural color gradients and a soft, even result. Because the look is so natural, Babylights are particularly low maintenance compared to other hair coloring methods.
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Hair coloring trend “Balayage”
One trend that has become one of the most popular ways to add dimension to hair in recent years is balayage. The name comes from the French “balayer”, which is German for “to sweep”. This refers to the sweeping motion used to work color into the hair using a brush. The hairdresser distributes the highlights unevenly. This creates a natural look: a growing root is barely noticeable, rather it looks like the tips have been bleached by the sun. As a rule, bleaching is used for balayage. It’s important not to color the strands too lightly to ensure seamless transitions.
“Shadow Effect”
The ombré effect also creates a contrast between light and dark in the hair. This creates a color gradient: the roots are darker, while the hair becomes lighter towards the ends. To incorporate the transition, the highlights are treated with only the color around the height of the chin. Basically, this creates a more intense look than balayage. The transitions are more striking, the color gradient more noticeable.
