: A Complete Comparison Balayage vs Highlights
Both techniques add dimension and lightness — but with different results, maintenance and costs. As Italian-trained colourists at Chelsea and Notting Hill who perform both daily, here's our honest comparison to help you choose.
Understanding the Techniques
Highlights use foils for uniform, structured lightness. Balayage is hand-painted freehand for a softer, natural effect. Neither is inherently better — it depends on the result you want.
What Is Balayage?
A freehand painting technique creating soft, sun-kissed highlights that blend naturally. Low-maintenance and grows out without harsh root lines. See our balayage service page for full details and pricing.
What Are Highlights?
Foils isolate hair sections for even lightening root to tip. More uniform, defined streaks with greater precision. Can achieve a lighter, more dramatic result than balayage.
Damage Comparison
Balayage generally causes less damage — less product, no foil heat acceleration. At GA Salons, we minimise damage with both techniques using bond-strengthening treatments and organic Oway products. Pair with our restorative treatments for healthy colour.
Maintenance & Cost
Balayage: touch-ups every 12 to 16 weeks. Highlights: every 6 to 8 weeks. Over a year, balayage often works out more cost-effective. Check our price list for current rates.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose Balayage If…
You want a natural, sun-kissed look. You prefer low-maintenance colour. You have medium to long hair. Book at South Kensington or any of our salons.
Choose Highlights If…
You want brighter, more uniform lightening. You prefer defined colour from root to tip. You have shorter hair. You want maximum lightness.
Our Recommendation
Many clients combine both — babylights around the face with balayage through the lengths. If you're also considering natural plant colour, ask about our organic options during consultation.
What Our Clients Say
“My colourist at GA switched me to balayage and I get compliments constantly — it looks so natural.”— Sophie
Frequently Asked Questions
Balayage vs Highlights
Book a Colour Consultation
Book a free consultation with one of our Italian-trained colourists at any of our four London salons.
Chelsea
3 Bray Place, SW3 3LL
Notting Hill
2 Wellington Terrace, W2 4LW
South Kensington
27 Thurloe Street, SW7 2LQ
Wimbledon
154 Arthur Road, SW19 8AQ