Highlights Vs. Lowlights: What's Best for My Hair?
Refreshing your hairstyle is the perfect way to kick off Summer. Of course, a lot of decision-making goes into the process! For example, many of our clients come in wanting highlights initially, but later realize lowlights are the best option after their consultation (and vice versa). While both techniques use color sections to change tone and dimension, they produce different results. To understand which style process is best for your maintenance routine and expectations, we break down the difference between the two.
What are Highlights?
In general, highlights lighten strands of your natural base color, brightening your overall look. This technique creates brightness and dimension, especially when placed around the face or throughout the top layers. Many people choose highlights to refresh their look without going for a full color change. They can be soft and natural or high contrast, depending on the shade and placement. Highlights do require some upkeep since lighter pieces can grow out more visibly over time. Toning appointments may also be needed to maintain the desired shade and prevent brassiness, especially on blonde or lighter tones.
Highlights may be the right fit for you at your next appointment if you want:
- A brighter, sun-kissed look without full color coverage.
- More dimension and movement through your hair.
- A noticeable but blended color change.
What are Lowlights?
On the flip side, lowlights add deeper shades to your hair. Instead of brightening, they create contrast and depth, making hair look fuller and more multidimensional. Lowlights are especially helpful for people whose hair looks too light, flat, or washed out after too many highlights. Lowlights can also help blend, grow out lines, and soften overly bright color. Lowlights are often lower-maintenance than highlights, since they tend to grow out more softly and require less toning. This is an excellent option for those who want a refresh without committing to monthly touch-ups.
Lowlights may be the better choice if you want:
- Added depth and dimension without going lighter overall.
- A more natural, blended color result.
- Softer contrast between highlights and your base color.
Book Your Next Highlight Appointment Today
Deciding between highlights and lowlights ultimately comes down to how you want your hair to look day to day. Highlights create brightness and contrast, while lowlights create depth and softness. Some people prefer one over the other for aesthetic and maintenance purposes, while many choose a combination of both for a balanced, dimensional look that grows out beautifully.
At Lux Hair Bar, our team is happy to help you find the best fit during your next visit. Thinking of DIY-ing your dye job? See why we highly recommend working with a color specialist for the best results.
New to Lux Hair Bar? Be sure to contact us today to learn how to schedule an appointment for hair highlights near Lexington! Already visited us before? We offer online booking services for returning clients. Located in Lexington, Kentucky, Lux Hair Bar proudly serves Lexington, Winchester, Versailles, Georgetown, and Nicholasville, Kentucky.
