What Nail Service is Right for You?
October 2, 2025
Lash Extensions or Lifts and Tints?
October 20, 2025
Are you getting the itch to change your hair? Sometimes it feels like when the seasons change we want to change right along with them! Let’s talk about blonding for a moment – specifically balayage and highlights. Both are two of the most popular techniques, though they do come with different results and maintenance. Whether you’re a BYU-Idaho student looking for something trendy and low maintenance, or you’re one of our Rexburg Locals and you’re ready for a stunning transformation, we’re here to guide you through the differences and help you decide which is right for you!
Highlights – Classic Brightness
Highlights are all about adding distinct lightness throughout your hair, creating dimension and brightness. This technique involves meticulously sectioning hair and applying the lightener from roots to ends. Those craving a vibrant, all over blonde look, or even something as simple as streaks of blonde that start directly at your roots are going to want to look at scheduling highlights. Keep in mind, when we say highlights, we aren’t always talking about the chunky highlights from the early 2000’s. Highlights can be chunkier, or we can do fine highlights (babylights) to create a softer blend.
We recommend coming every 6-8 weeks as your roots grow out for maintenance. Some clients love coming in for full highlights each time. If you’re wanting a more cost effective option, Partial Highlights may be a great option for you! We focus on the crown of your head instead of all over, making it so the hair you see is touched up. When you come in for your highlight service, ask to see if Partial Highlights may be a good maintenance option for you!
Balayage – The Low Maintenance Look
Don’t worry, here’s how you pronounce it: bah-lay-ahge. It’s a french word that means “to sweep” or “to paint”. It’s a freehand technique that involves painting lightener onto the surface of the hair. This creates a soft and natural gradient effect. Typically you’ll see it go from a darker root to lighter ends with bright pieces up front to frame the face. A Balayage is perfect for those who have a busy schedule and need a low maintenance option.
Maintenance on a Balayage is very minimal! We recommend coming in every 12-16 weeks, depending on your desired look. Some clients like to come in earlier, some like to stretch it out even longer! For in between appointments, we like to recommend Face Framing Highlights to help keep the brightness around your face looking fresh, as well as coming in for toners! Other than that, you can let your Balayage grow without any worry!
So… Which is Right For You?
Honestly, whether you choose a balayage or a highlight depends on your desired look, lifestyle and how often you’re able to come in for maintenance appointments. Here’s the breakdown:
- Choose Highlights if you want customized brightness from root to tip, and you’re able to come in every couple months to get your hair redone.
- Choose Balayage if you prepare a more natural, lived in look with a softer grow out, and a more flexible maintenance schedule.
Still unsure? Schedule a color consultation with us today so we can help you figure out exactly what would work best for you!
Ready for your Transformation?
It’s time for your hair dreams to become a reality! At Tami’s Salon and Spa in Rexburg, Idaho we’re ready to meet you and help you fall in love with your hair all over again. We proudly service clients from Rexburg, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rigby, Sugar City, Teton Valley, and throughout East Idaho! Come stop by!
