21 SOUTH STREET, DORKING, SURREY RH4 2JZ

21 SOUTH STREET, DORKING, SURREY RH4 2JZ

TEL: 01306 500 192

Appointments available Mon to Sat 7.30am to 8pm
Email:darrenbye@hotmail.co.uk

Balayage Highlights or Foil? What Do You Need To Know Before Booking Hairdressers in Dorking

Oct 24, 2025

Most of the time, clients walk into the salons unsure of the hair colour that they want. If you’ve been scrolling through social media, you will be wondering which colouring technique will suit you best. With so many alluring options, choosing the right one gets difficult. Hairdressers in Dorking can guide you through this phase. However, instead of being ignorant, you should know about Balayage, Highlights or Foil before booking a hairdresser. 

What is balayage?

It is a freehand colouring technique where soft highlights are blended. The hairdresser will use styling colours and apply them directly to the hair, rather than using foils. This type of colouring creates a gentle look from the natural ingredients. You can get darker roots and lighter in as an outcome of balayage.

It is the best technique for women who like low-maintenance hair colours and for clients who do not prefer a harsh regrowth line. It is perfect for clients who want a fresh and stylish look without spending hours in the salon. The best thing about balayage is that it grows out beautifully without needing touch-ups. They suit all hair textures and styles. 

What are the highlights?

They are different from baylayge. When you approach a hairdresser for highlights, they will apply a lightener of varying strengths throughout your hair to brighten the overall colour of your hair. These highlights typically start closer to the root and lend a consistent colour throughout the head. If you are looking for noticeable hair colour, highlights are the best option. If your hair is smooth and fine, highlights will shine out. Highlights lighten the hair and help you get a natural look. Suppose you are planning a bright blonde transformation; highlights are the best way to achieve it.

What are foils?

This is a hair colour technique where hair strands are isolated with intense colour. It can be used for highlights, low lights or colour corrections. The hairdresser will use foils to trap heat and create a dramatic result. If you have failed at DIY colouring, hairdressers generally use foils to correct your colour. You can achieve a high contrast look with foils. Files give the stylist better control over the hair texture and help the clients get a new shade.

Which one should you choose?

If you want a low-maintenance option, choose balayage. Again, for brightness and touch-ups, you can choose highlights. Choose foils if you’re going for a dramatic transformation or need strong, even lifting. The ultimate decision lies in the colour you want.

Before you book a hairdresser, it is always worth knowing in detail about these three types of hair colours. A skilled stylist will analyse the type of your hair, its condition, and its colour history before recommending the technique that will achieve the best results. 

Wear a new look with a complete hair makeover from the professionals. Contact Darren James Bye Hairdressing, a prominent hair salon in Dorking. We boast a dedicated team of stylists who are up to date on the latest hair trends. With smooth customer service and efficient styling, we have been a top choice for many customers.