Understanding the difference between these two techniques can transform your look without a drastic change. Highlights and lowlights are both fantastic ways to enhance your natural hair color, but they serve distinct purposes. Highlights are ideal for adding brightness and contrast, making your hair look more vibrant and radiant. On the other hand, lowlights are perfect for adding depth and dimension, giving your hair a richer and fuller appearance. So, how do you choose the right one for you? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about highlights and lowlights, so you can make an informed decision and achieve the hair color of your dreams.
What Are Highlights
Highlights involve lightening certain sections of your hair to create contrast and brightness. Typically, these strands are 2-3 shades lighter than your base color. They can be achieved through various techniques such as foiling or balayage. Highlights are great for creating a sun-kissed look or adding a fresh, vibrant twist to your current color. They are especially effective if you want to brighten up your hair without a complete color overhaul.
Techniques For Highlights:
- Foiling: This method uses aluminum foils to isolate and lighten sections of hair.
- Balayage: A freehand technique where color is painted onto the hair for a more natural, blended effect.
- Chunky Highlights: Larger sections of hair are lightened to create a bolder contrast.
What Are Lowlights
Lowlights are darker strands woven into your hair to add depth and dimension. These strands are generally 2-3 shades darker than your base color. They work to counteract any flatness or dullness in your color, giving your hair a fuller, more textured appearance. Lowlights are particularly useful if you want to enhance your natural color or deepen your highlights.
Techniques:
- Balayage Lowlights: Applied in a sweeping motion for a seamless blend.
- Foil Lowlights: Sections of hair are wrapped in foil to create defined, darker pieces.
- Ombre Lowlights: Gradual darkening from the roots to the tips.
Highlights Vs. Lowlights
The main difference lies in the effect each technique creates. Highlights lighten your hair, making it appear brighter and adding contrast. Lowlights, however, deepen your hair color, adding dimension and a richer tone. Deciding between the two depends on whether you want to brighten up your look or add more depth and complexity.
Choosing The Right Technique:
- For Brightness: Opt for highlights to add a luminous effect.
- For Depth: Choose lowlights to introduce contrast and enhance your natural color.
Can You Mix Highlights And Lowlights
Absolutely! Combining highlights and lowlights can provide a dynamic, multi-dimensional look. This technique allows for a balance between brightness and depth, creating a more natural and textured appearance. Your stylist can customize the blend to suit your preferences and enhance your overall color.
Benefits of Mixing:
- Enhanced Dimension: A combination adds layers of color for a fuller look.
- Natural Appearance: Mimics natural color variations and light exposure.
How Are Highlights And Lowlights Applied
Both techniques involve precise application methods to ensure a natural and flattering result. Highlights are typically applied using foils or balayage, while lowlights are strategically placed to blend with your base color. The application process can vary based on the desired effect and the technique used.
Application Methods:
- Foils: For defined, clean lines of color.
- Balayage: For a softer, more blended appearance.
- Combination Techniques: For integrating both highlights and lowlights.
Conclusion
Struggling to choose between highlights and lowlights for your hair? Highlights add brightness and vibrancy, while lowlights create depth and richness. This guide will help you understand the difference, so you can decide which technique best suits your desired look.
