This is probably the question I get asked most when someone's thinking about a change, so I wanted to break down the actual difference rather than just the buzzwords.
Highlights
Traditional highlights are sectioned and foiled, which gives a more consistent, uniform result from root to tip. They're a great option if you want a noticeable change or a brighter, more even colour throughout. The trade-off is that as your natural colour grows through, the regrowth line is a bit more obvious, so they usually need topping up every 6 to 8 weeks to stay looking fresh. That said, they can still be placed in a way that gives a more lived-in, lower-contrast look if that's what you're after — it just tends to still need more upkeep than balayage to keep looking its best.
Balayage
Balayage is hand-painted rather than foiled, which means the colour is placed more where the sun would naturally lighten your hair. The result is softer and more graduated, with a much more forgiving grow-out — which is why it's become so popular for people who don't want to be back in the chair every six weeks. It tends to suit longer styles best, where there's more length to show off the graduation.
So which is right for you?
If you want a bold, all-over change and don't mind more frequent maintenance, highlights are usually the better fit. If you're after something lower-maintenance with a natural, sun-kissed finish, balayage tends to be the one. Honestly though, this is exactly the kind of thing that's easier to talk through in person, since it really does depend on your natural colour, your hair length, and how much upkeep you want to commit to. That's what the consultation at the start of every appointment is for.
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