What’s the Difference Between Balayage, Highlights, and Ombré?
Thinking about refreshing your hair color but not sure which technique is right for you? At Studio Be Salon in Northern Colorado, our stylists are experts in the most popular color services—balayage, highlights, and ombré. Each method creates a unique finish, and knowing the difference helps you get the look you’re after.
What is Balayage?
Balayage (pronounced bah-lee-ahge) comes from the French word meaning “to sweep” or “to paint.” It’s a freehand coloring technique where the stylist paints color onto the hair in soft, sweeping motions.
✨ Why clients love balayage:
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Creates a natural, sun-kissed dimension—like you just got back from vacation.
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Grows out seamlessly with no harsh lines, making it a low-maintenance option.
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Works on all hair colors, from brunettes and blondes to redheads.
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Can be subtle for a soft glow or bold with higher contrast.
If you’re looking for a lived-in look that lasts between appointments, balayage is often the go-to choice.
What are Highlights?
Highlights are one of the most classic and versatile ways to brighten hair. Using foils, stylists isolate sections of hair and lighten them from root to tip. This creates a uniform and controlled lift that’s more structured than balayage.
✨ Why clients love highlights:
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Perfect for going consistently lighter or blonder all over.
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Adds bold contrast and brightness throughout the hair.
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Great for covering more surface area, so it works faster if you want a big change.
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Can be customized—think full highlights for a major impact or partial highlights for a softer blend.
Highlights are ideal if you want your hair to look bright, polished, and defined every time you walk out of the salon.
What is Ombré?
Ombré means “shaded” in French, and it’s all about creating a gradient effect. The look transitions from a darker shade at the roots into lighter ends. Unlike balayage, which is hand-painted for softness, ombré is high-contrast and bold by design.
✨ Why clients love ombré:
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Creates a dramatic, eye-catching transformation.
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Perfect for experimenting with fun colors (like coppers, blondes, or even fashion shades like pink or lavender).
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Can be adapted into a softer “sombre” (subtle ombré) for those who want a gentler effect.
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Low-maintenance since the roots stay natural and grow out easily.
If you love trend-driven looks with personality, ombré is a perfect match.
Which Hair Color Technique Should You Choose?
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Choose Balayage → if you want a natural, low-maintenance glow.
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Choose Highlights → if you love consistent blonde or bold contrast.
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Choose Ombré → if you want a trendy, statement-making look.
👉 Pro Tip: Always bring inspiration photos! Our stylists at Studio Be Salon will adapt the technique to your hair type, maintenance preferences, and lifestyle.
How to Maintain Balayage, Highlights, and Ombré
No matter which technique you choose, proper care makes a big difference:
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Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner to protect vibrancy and prevent fading.
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Hydrating masks once a week to restore shine and strength.
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Leave-in treatments or oils to seal the cuticle and protect against heat.
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Regular toners or glosses every 6–8 weeks to refresh your color.
Our stylists will recommend the best salon-grade products to keep your shade looking fresh and radiant.
Trending Hair Color Ideas for Fall in Northern Colorado
This season, our guests are loving:
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Warm coppers and reds for bold autumn vibes.
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Bronde blends (brown + blonde) for easy upkeep.
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Dimensional blondes with shadow roots for a seamless grow-out.
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Rich chocolate balayage for depth and shine.
FAQs: Balayage vs Highlights vs Ombré
Q: Which lasts longer, balayage or highlights?
Balayage typically lasts longer since it grows out more naturally.
Q: Can I combine balayage and highlights?
Yes! Many guests love a mix of both for added brightness and dimension.
Q: Is ombré only for long hair?
Not at all—ombré can be customized for bobs, lobs, and even pixies.
Book Your Transformation at Studio Be Salon
Whether you’re ready for a natural balayage, bold highlights, or dramatic ombré, the stylists at Studio Be Salon are here to bring your vision to life.