Partial Highlights

There are more hair color options than ever before. It’s not just a question of adding some blonde highlights for a sun-kissed look -- although that’s always a popular option! We offer both partial highlights or full highlights in a range of colors. Below are answers to some of the questions we get most often about highlights:
 

Should you get partial or full highlights?

When scheduling an appointment to add highlights to their hair, guests may find themselves unsure of what the differences are between the different highlighting options and just what each kind of highlighting entails. Most hair stylists will steer guests in the right direction as far as what will look best on them. 

We really just recommend partial highlights for those who have previously had full highlighting done and need a touch-up in between full highlight appointments. If you haven’t done full highlighting in a while, you will probably need to go with another full highlight. Otherwise, partial highlights won’t achieve the full look, especially when the hair is tied up in a ponytail or bun without the top showing.
 

What is the difference between partial and full highlights?

With a partial highlight, we will highlight only the top (or crown) of the hair while leaving the underside its natural color. 

Full highlights entails streaking the majority of the hair from the front, sides, back and possibly even the nape of the neck if desired. It can both lighten a natural brunette to a bright blonde highlight, or subtle enough to lighten only a little. Full highlights can be either dramatic or even natural depending on personal choice, so be sure to tell your stylist about the exact look you’re going for.

Whether you are getting full highlights for the first time (or the first time in a while), or need partial highlights to freshen up your already-highlighted look, our skilled stylists can advise you on how to get the best look for your hair style and type.
 

What is the partial highlight process?

A partial highlight is when we apply the highlight to sectioned portions of the hair -- usually the crown, or the top of the head. Once the hair to be treated is sectioned off, the stylist applies the highlight with a color-paste brush. Once this step is completed, the sectioned hair is wrapped in foil and processed until it reaches the perfect shade.
 

How light should I go?

For those seeking a more natural look to their hair, the color of the highlights shouldn't be more than two to three shades lighter than the base color and should stay within the tonal family. If the hair base is a warm tone, then the highlights should also be warm. The opposite is true for cooler tones.
 

What are the different styles of highlights?

 

  • Traditional highlights are uniform colored strands of hair, streaky or well-blended.
  • Balayage is a freehand technique where we create a natural, less symmetrical, look throughout the hair.
  • Babylights are delicate highlights placed near the hairline to give a shimmer of color.
  • Lowlights are added to darker portions of the hair and usually combined with highlights to give contrast and dimension.
  • Ombré is either the gradual or striking darker color near the roots to a lighter tone at the ends of the hair.
  • Sombré is a low-maintenance color that is a softer, more natural look of the ombré. It looks great on brunettes.


Ready for a new look or to freshen up your existing highlights with a partial highlights treatment? Book your appointment online today!