Introduction

When it comes to adding dimension and shine to your hair, highlights are a go-to solution that can completely transform your look. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a bold change, highlights offer endless possibilities. But what’s the difference between partial highlights and full highlights? How do you decide which is best for you? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the different types of highlights to expert recommendations, and style inspirations. We’ll also dive deep into the pros and cons of each technique, so you can make an informed decision.

What Are Highlights?

Highlights are a hair coloring technique used to lighten specific sections of the hair to create contrast, dimension, and depth. By strategically placing lighter strands throughout your hair, a colorist can mimic the effect of natural sun-kissed hair. Techniques like balayage, foil highlights, babylights, and ombre can be used to create a wide range of looks—from subtle to dramatic.

Highlights are often associated with blondes, but brunettes, redheads, and even people with black hair can enjoy their effects. The goal is to create movement and texture in the hair by lifting strands to a lighter color, which is why both full and partial highlights are incredibly popular in hair salons like Inspirations Salon in Sarasota, Florida.

What Are Partial Highlights?

Partial highlights involve lightening only specific sections of the hair, usually around the crown and the face-framing pieces. These highlights can be subtle or bold, depending on your preferences and the skill of your colorist. For those new to hair color or looking to enhance their natural shade, partial highlights are an excellent choice as they require less maintenance than full highlights.

This technique is favored for creating a soft, natural-looking glow. Celebrity colorists like Reece Walker and Jafra Bryant often use partial highlights to add dimension and brightness without overpowering the client’s natural hair color.

What Are Full Highlights?

Full highlights involve lightening the entire head of hair, from roots to ends. This technique covers all sections of your hair, creating a more dramatic change. Full highlights can be used to completely transform your hair color or add multi-dimensional tones. If you’re looking for a bolder, more noticeable look, full highlights might be your best bet.

Full highlights are often used in conjunction with other techniques like lowlights or ombre for added depth and contrast. Colorists like Jeremy Tardo and Kendra Aarhus masterfully use full highlights to deliver stunning, head-turning results that grace the covers of magazines.

Partial Highlights vs. Full Highlights

When choosing between partial and full highlights, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, maintenance preferences, and desired look.

Partial highlights are lower maintenance and less expensive, as fewer sections of the hair are being treated. They create a more natural, sun-kissed appearance and are ideal for those looking to add a bit of brightness without a complete overhaul.

Full highlights, on the other hand, offer more dramatic results and complete hair color transformation. However, they require more upkeep and are typically more expensive due to the extensive work involved.

Pros and Cons of Partial Highlights

Pros:

• Natural Look: Partial highlights offer a softer, more natural glow that enhances your existing color.
• Low Maintenance: Since only sections of the hair are treated, you won’t need frequent touch-ups.
• Less Damage: Partial highlights require less chemical processing, reducing the risk of damage.

Cons:

• Less Dramatic: If you’re seeking a complete hair color overhaul, partial highlights may not provide enough contrast.
• Limited Coverage: Only select portions of the hair are lightened, which may not be noticeable on darker hair.

Pros and Cons of Full Highlights

Pros:

• Dramatic Transformation: Full highlights offer a complete color change and a noticeable new look.
• More Versatile: Full highlights allow for a greater range of styles, from balayage to icy blonde all over.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Because your entire head is treated, root touch-ups and regular maintenance are essential.
• Increased Damage: Full highlights involve more chemical processing, which can be more damaging to the hair.

Choosing Between Partial and Full Highlights

When deciding between partial and full highlights, consider the look you’re going for. Partial highlights are ideal for those who prefer a natural, low-maintenance look that subtly enhances their natural color. Full highlights are better suited for those seeking a complete transformation, as they allow for more contrast and variety in hair color.

Your lifestyle also plays a crucial role in your choice. If you have a busy schedule and don’t want to visit the salon frequently, partial highlights are a lower-maintenance option. If you’re willing to invest more time in your hair and enjoy the upkeep, full highlights offer endless creative possibilities.

Partial Highlights Styles

Golden Beachy Waves: For a carefree, sun-kissed look, golden beachy waves are a favorite among colorists like Reece Walker. Partial highlights placed strategically in the mid-lengths and ends of your hair create a natural glow, perfect for any season.

Front-Framing Pieces: Highlighting the strands around your face can add a fresh, youthful appearance. Colorists like Jafra Bryant often use this technique to brighten up the face without committing to a full head of highlights.

Soft and Subtle Browns: If you have brunette hair, partial highlights can add depth and richness without losing the integrity of your natural color. Gina Rivera, founder of Phenix Salon Suites, loves using soft brown highlights to enhance darker hair tones.

Playful and Cool Color: Looking for something fun? Experiment with playful pastel or icy tones for a fresh twist. Celebrity hairstylists like Jeremy Tardo use partial highlights to create playful contrasts that pop.

Classic and Refined: For a polished, timeless look, consider subtle highlights in classic hues like caramel or honey. Kendra Aarhus, a top colorist, often suggests this style for clients who want an elegant yet understated finish.

Full Highlights Styles

Brunette-Blonde Beauty: Full highlights are perfect for those looking to blend brunette and blonde hues seamlessly. This technique creates a stunning gradient that adds depth and dimension.

Icy Blonde All Over: For those seeking a bold, high-fashion look, full icy blonde highlights deliver a cool, almost platinum effect. Victoria Beckham and Miranda Kerr have rocked this style, thanks to the expertise of celebrity colorists.

Multi-Dimensional Highlights: Using a variety of shades, multi-dimensional highlights add richness and complexity to your hair. Julia Garner has been known to flaunt this stunning style with the help of her celebrity colorist.

Full Color Blend: A blend of full highlights and lowlights creates a natural, sun-kissed look that mimics the tones of natural hair lightened by the sun. This style is great for achieving balance in lighter shades.

Auburn Red Warmth: For redheads or those wanting to explore auburn tones, full highlights can add depth and warmth. This look is perfect for fall, providing rich, vibrant color with dimension.

Expert Insights on Highlight Techniques

Industry leaders like Reece Walker, Kendra Aarhus, Jeremy Tardo, and Jafra Bryant have refined their craft over years of experience working with celebrities and clients alike. According to these experts, the key to perfect highlights lies in understanding your natural hair color, face shape, and personal style.

Whether it’s through foil highlights, balayage, or babylights, the right technique can bring out the best in your hair. Jeremy Tardo suggests starting with subtle highlights for first-timers, while Reece Walker recommends face-framing highlights for a quick, effective update. The experts also emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, with Kendra Aarhus advising root touch-ups and gloss treatments to keep your highlights looking fresh.

Final Thoughts on Highlights

Whether you opt for partial or full highlights, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your look. Each technique offers unique benefits, from the low-maintenance glow of partial highlights to the head-turning drama of full highlights. Whatever your hair type or style, highlights can add depth, dimension, and life to your locks.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preference, lifestyle, and desired outcome. With expert colorists like Kendra Aarhus, Jeremy Tardo, Jafra Bryant, and Reece Walker at your side, you’re sure to find a highlight style that suits your needs and enhances your natural beauty.

FAQs

What are partial highlights?
Partial highlights are a coloring technique where only certain sections of the hair are lightened, usually around the face or crown, to create a sun-kissed, natural effect.

How often do highlights need to be touched up?
It depends on the type of highlights and your hair’s natural growth. Partial highlights typically require touch-ups every 8-10 weeks, while full highlights may need maintenance every 6-8 weeks.

Can highlights damage my hair?
While any chemical treatment can cause some damage, using high-quality products and visiting a skilled colorist can minimize the risk. Partial highlights cause less damage than full highlights because fewer sections of the hair are processed.

Are full highlights suitable for all hair types?
Yes, full highlights can work on all hair types and colors. Whether you’re a blonde, brunette, or redhead, full highlights can add depth and brightness to your hair.

What is the difference between balayage and highlights?
Balayageis a hand-painting technique used to create a soft, natural look by lightening sections of the hair in a freehand style. Highlights typically involve using foils to section and lighten specific strands for more uniform color.

How can I maintain my highlights between salon visits?
Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoid excessive heat styling, and consider a gloss treatment to maintain the vibrancy of your highlights between salon appointments.

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