What Are Half Head Highlights and Are They Right for You
Olivia MurrayManager
Published
Half Head Highlights Explained
If you are considering lightening your hair but want a softer, more natural result than an all-over colour, half head highlights could be exactly what you need. Popular with clients looking for a manageable yet impactful refresh, this technique offers brightness and dimension without the full commitment of a complete colour change.

At Cruz Hairworks in Whitley Bay, our expert colour team specialises in creating beautiful, natural-looking highlights tailored to each client’s style, skin tone, and maintenance preferences. Let’s take a closer look at what half head highlights are and whether they are the right choice for you.
What Are Half Head Highlights?
As the name suggests, half head highlights are applied to roughly half of the head. Typically, they are focused on the crown, top layers, and the sides of the hair that frame the face. The underneath section is usually left untouched, allowing for natural depth and contrast.
This makes half head highlights an ideal option for clients who wear their hair down most of the time, as the lighter sections will be the most visible. They are also a popular choice for maintaining colour in between full head services or enhancing your natural base with soft, flattering lightness.
Who Are They Best Suited To?
Half head highlights are wonderfully versatile. Whether you are blonde, brunette, or redhead, the technique can be adapted to create subtle brightness or bold contrast depending on your goals.
They work particularly well for:
- Clients new to colour looking for a gentle introduction
- Those wanting to brighten their look without a full head of bleach
- Clients maintaining existing highlights or balayage
- Anyone who prefers a more natural and low maintenance result
If your hair is worn up frequently or cut very short, a full head of highlights may give a more even result. However, for most medium to longer styles, a half head is more than enough to give the desired effect.
How Often Should I Book?
Depending on your natural hair colour and how noticeable you like your regrowth to be, most clients return for a refresh every 8 to 12 weeks. Our team can advise you on the best schedule and aftercare plan to keep your colour looking its best.
We recommend using professional products designed for coloured hair to protect your highlights from fading and dryness. During your visit, we can guide you through the most suitable choices from L’Oréal Professional, Joico, or GHD.
Interested in Half Head Highlights?
If you are thinking about booking half head highlights, we would love to welcome you into the salon. Every colour appointment at Cruz Hairworks begins with a consultation, so we can understand exactly what you are looking for and create a look that works beautifully for you.
To book your appointment or speak to a member of our team, call us on 0191 2521 401 or visit www.cruzhairworks.com.