Describe the contrast
Would you like gentle brightness or a more noticeable change? Bring photos and point to where you want the lighter pieces to begin.
Salon guide · Bliss & Blade
Balayage
vs. highlights.
Highlights are lighter strands of hair. Balayage is a placement technique that can create highlights with a softer transition from the roots. The look you want matters more than the label.
Explore the service
Start with
the finished look.
Use these differences to explain your preferences. The exact placement and result depend on your hair and the plan you discuss with your stylist.
| What to compare | Balayage | Traditional foil highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | Swept-on placement, often emphasizing selected lengths and ends. | Selected strands are separated with foils for controlled placement. |
| Root area | Often designed with a softer transition near the roots. | Can bring brightness closer to the roots; placement can vary. |
| Grow-out | A blended root may make new growth less noticeable. | Root contrast depends on the placement and difference from your natural shade. |
Make it
your own.
Discuss your starting point
Tell your stylist about previous color and home dye. Ask what is realistic for your appointment and whether your goal may take more than one visit.
Talk about upkeep
Discuss how often you want to return and what care your finished color will need. Avoid choosing a service based only on a promised maintenance interval.
Further reading: Wella Professionals: balayage and highlights
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you time?
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Book an appointmentFrequently asked questions
A few things
to know.
A few more answers to help you plan your appointment.
Is balayage a type of highlight?
Yes. Highlights describe lighter strands, while balayage describes a technique used to place them. The terms overlap.
Is balayage always more natural-looking?
The final effect depends on placement, contrast and shade. Bring examples of the result you mean by natural-looking rather than relying only on the service name.
Which option is right for me?
Compare your preferred root depth, brightness and maintenance with your stylist. Explore our balayage and hair color and highlights pages before booking.
Visit Bliss & Blade
Find us
in Foster City.
Walk-ins are welcome. Open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Free parking is available for clients.
969H Edgewater BlvdFoster City, CA 94404