If you have ever sat in a salon chair feeling unsure about which colour technique to ask for, you are not alone. Ombré, balayage, and highlights are three of the most popular hair colouring services — and while they are all forms of lightening, they produce very different results. Here is a clear breakdown from our colour specialists at Bigoudee Coiffure in Mount Lawley, Perth.
What Is Balayage?
Balayage (pronounced bah-lee-ahge) is a freehand painting technique where colour is applied directly onto sections of hair using a brush. The word comes from the French verb meaning “to sweep,” which perfectly describes how colour is swept onto the hair surface.
The result is soft, blended, sun-kissed colour with no harsh lines. Balayage is highly customisable — it can be subtle and natural-looking, or bold and dramatic, depending on your goals. Because colour starts further from the root, it grows out beautifully with minimal maintenance. This is one of the biggest reasons balayage has become one of the most requested services at Bigoudee.
Best for: Clients who want a low-maintenance, natural-looking result. Balayage suits almost every hair type and length.
What Is Ombré?
Ombré is a colour effect rather than a specific application technique. It describes a gradient that transitions from dark at the roots to light at the ends — or occasionally the reverse. The contrast is typically more visible and dramatic than balayage, with a clearer transition point between dark and light.
Ombré can be achieved using different application methods. Some stylists use balayage to create it; others use a more structured placement. The key characteristic is the noticeable gradient — dark to light.
Best for: Clients who want a bolder, more defined contrast between root and ends. Ombré makes a statement.
What Are Highlights?
Traditional foil highlights involve separating sections of hair and wrapping them in foil before applying a lightener or colour. This allows precise control over placement and produces consistent, uniform colour throughout the highlighted sections.
Highlights are great for adding brightness and dimension across the whole head, rather than concentrating colour at the ends. They can be fine (baby lights) or chunkier, depending on the look you want. The main difference from balayage is that highlights tend to start closer to the root, resulting in a more uniform coverage — but also a more obvious regrowth line as hair grows.
Best for: Clients who want a brighter, more uniform look with colour throughout the head, not just at the ends.
Which One Is Right for You?
Here is a simple comparison to help you decide:
- Want low maintenance? Balayage is your best option.
- Want bold contrast? Ombré is for you.
- Want brightness throughout? Traditional highlights may suit you best.
- Want the most natural result? Balayage or baby lights.
The truth is, many modern colour services combine these techniques. A great colourist will blend elements of all three to create a look that is tailored to your hair, your skin tone, and your lifestyle.
Book a Colour Consultation in Perth
Not sure which technique is right for you? Book a consultation with our colour specialists at Bigoudee Coiffure. We will assess your hair, discuss your vision, and recommend the best approach. Call 08 9328 3244 or book online. Find us at 602 Beaufort Street, Mount Lawley.