Aside from getting a haircut, one quick way to transform your look is by getting a pop of color in your hair. But there’s one burning question: should you get highlights or lowlights? What’s the difference between the two anyway? If you have asked yourself (or your hairdresser) the same question, this article is for you.
Summary Table
| Highlights | Lowlights |
| Strands of hair that are dyed two or three shades lighter than your base hair color | Strands of hair that are dyed two or three shades darker than your base hair color |
| Can give your hair a flowy or sunkissed look | Can give your hair texture, depth, and volume; also perfect for when your highlighted strands become too light or dull |
Descriptions
Highlights are certain hair strands that are dyed two or three shades lighter than the base color of your hair.
Although most highlights are blonde or platinum, highlights can actually be done in any shade or shades as long as they are lighter than the rest of your hair. The shade is typically based on what look you are trying to achieve, the kind of hair you have, and how light you want the highlights to be. You should also bear in mind that highlights should compliment your natural hair color and skin tone. When in doubt, your professional hairdresser can help you find the best shade or shades for best results.
Highlights, when properly done, will give your hair that sun-kissed glow (as if you just had a vacation in a tropical paradise) because they mimic how the sun naturally lightens your hair. They can also give your hair a textured and flowy look.
On the other hand, lowlights are strands of hair that are dyed two to three shades darker than your base hair color.
Lowlights are intended to give your hair depth, volume, and texture. They are also perfect for when your hair becomes too dull and light due to regular dyeing.
As long as the correct shade is applied, lowlights have a subtle effect to make your hair look thicker than it actually is. They especially look natural on hair that is already dark.
Highlights vs Lowlights
What, then, is the difference between highlights and lowlights?
The greatest difference between the two is that highlights are strands of hair that are dyed two or three shades lighter than your base hair color, whereas lowlights are strands of hair that are dyed two or three shades darker than your base hair color.
Both highlights and lowlights can create amazing effects when done correctly. Highlights can give your hair a flowy or sunkissed look, while lowlights can give your hair texture, depth, and volume. Lowlights are also a perfect way to cover up those strands that have become too light or dull because of regular highlighting.
Why Would Someone Want to Highlight Their Hair?
There are many reasons a person may choose to highlight their hair. We’ll take a look at some of the main reasons someone may choose to add highlights:
Enhance natural hair color: highlights are a great way to enhance your natural hair color. By adding lighter or darker highlights, your hair’s natural color looks more vibrant and brighter. A person may choose highlights if they have a subtle hair color and want to add dimension and depth to their hair.
Versatile: highlights can be customized to fit your style and preferences. You can choose to add subtle, natural highlights or bold highlights that make a statement. It’s also possible to choose where to place your highlights.
Great for any hair type: highlights are a great option whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair. This is because highlights are flexible and customizable to meet your preferences.
Why Would Someone Choose Lowlights for Their Hair?
Someone may want to choose lowlights if their hair color seems flat or looks too thin. Lowlights can add thickness and improve hair texture.
Lowlights are also a great choice if you have a new hair color that needs more depth. They can also make hair color less harsh or dramatic.
Are Lowlights or Highlights Better for Your Hair?
Lowlights are better for your hair because they cause less damage than adding highlights. Lowlights are usually done with demi-permanent or permanent hair color, which is less damaging than highlights.
But no matter which you choose, both lowlights and highlights can weaken hair. Your hairstylist may suggest that you use heat-styling methods less often and that you use hair masks to improve your hair’s appearance and texture.
