Balayage or Highlights? | Cruz Hairworks Whitley Bay

If you’re thinking about lightening your hair but unsure whether to choose balayage or highlights, you’re not alone. At Cruz Hairworks in Whitley Bay, we’re often asked which option is better—and the honest answer is, it depends on your hair, your style goals, and how much upkeep you’re happy to manage.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the difference, and decide which one might be the right fit for you.

What’s the Difference Between Balayage and Highlights?

Balayage is a freehand painting technique where your stylist applies colour in a sweeping motion through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. It’s designed to create a soft, natural-looking gradient that mimics the way hair lightens in the sun. There are no harsh lines or obvious regrowth, making it an ideal choice for a more effortless, low-maintenance look.

Highlights, on the other hand, involve sectioning the hair and applying lightener using foils. This gives more precision and lift, allowing for brighter, bolder results closer to the root. Highlights are great for those who want a more structured, high-impact finish.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose balayage if you want:

• A soft, sun-kissed finish
• Subtle dimension with less obvious regrowth
• A more natural, lived-in look
• Fewer salon visits

Choose highlights if you want:

• A brighter, more dramatic colour change
• A classic blonde or multi-tonal result
• Even coverage from root to tip
• Strong contrast and structured placement

At Cruz Hairworks, we always begin with a consultation to understand your goals and talk through the best option for your hair type, colour history, and maintenance preferences.

What About Maintenance?

Balayage is often the lower-maintenance choice. Because it blends so seamlessly into your natural hair, you can go longer between appointments—usually around 10–14 weeks, with optional toners in between to refresh the tone.

Highlights require more regular upkeep, especially if your roots grow quickly or if you prefer a very bright look near the scalp. We generally recommend refreshing highlights every 6–8 weeks to keep your colour consistent.

Still Not Sure?

Sometimes the best result comes from a combination of techniques. We often blend balayage with highlights to give lift through the roots while keeping the overall look soft and dimensional.

The key is finding a style that works for you—your lifestyle, your hair, and your sense of confidence.

Book Your Colour Consultation in Whitley Bay

If you’re considering balayage, highlights, or aren’t sure where to start, book a consultation with one of our expert colourists at Cruz Hairworks in Whitley Bay. We’ll help you decide what suits you best and create a look that brings out your natural beauty—professionally, personally, and with care.