Balayage has become one of the most popular hair color trends recently, thanks to its low-maintenance and natural-looking results. But there are two different types of balayage: full and partial. So which is right for you?
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between full balayage and partial balayage, so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your hair.
Let’s go!

A Quick Note on Balayage
First, a quick refresher on balayage. This technique involves “painting” hair color onto the strands to create a sun-kissed, natural effect. The results are low maintenance and look like you’ve spent a lot of time in the sun – without any of the damage!
Now that you know the basics, let’s examine the differences between full and partial balayage.
When it comes to balayage, there are two main types: full and partial. As the names imply, they involve different amounts of color coverage.
What is Full Balayage?
Full balayage is a technique that involves painting color onto the entire head. This can be used to lighten dark hair to create an even, all-over blonde look and add depth and dimension. It’s also a great way to transition between two different shades of hair color without making it look too drastic.
The Pros and Cons of Full Balayage
Full balayage is perfect for those looking to make a dramatic change, while partial balayage is great for subtle accent colors. But each has its own unique pros and cons:
Full Balayage Pros
- A more dramatic transformation
- Can lighten or darken hair in one go
- Low maintenance
Full Balayage Cons
- Can be pricey due to the amount of color used
- May not be suitable for all hair types and styles
What is Partial Balayage?
On the other hand, partial balayage involves painting color onto select sections of the hair to create a subtle and natural-looking effect. This technique can be used to add depth and dimension to lighter-colored hair, as well as enhance highlights. It’s also great for adding texture and creating a multi-dimensional look.
The Pros and Cons of Partial Balayage
Partial balayage is a great way to experiment with bold colors without making a huge commitment. Here are the pros and cons of partial balayage:
Partial Balayage Pros
- Less expensive than full balayage
- Great for subtle accent colors or highlights
- Low maintenance
Partial Balayage Cons
- Not as dramatic of a transformation as full balayage
- May require more frequent touch-ups

What is the Difference Between Full and Partial Balayage
To sum up the difference between full and partial balayage, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Maintenance: Full balayage requires more maintenance than partial balayage because of its intense effects. Over time, the color will fade and need to be touched up. Partial balayage can last longer but may require more frequent touch-ups to keep it looking fresh.
- The Cost: Depending on how much you’re doing, full balayage can be more expensive than partial balayage. The larger the area, the higher the price.
- The Result: Full balayage will give you a brighter and more dramatic effect compared to partial balayage. Partial balayage is great for those who want subtle but still beautiful results.
- The Time: Full balayage will take longer than partial balayage. Depending on how large the area is, it can take up to two hours for full balayage but much less for partial.
- Styling: The look created from full balayage is more difficult to style since it’s very intense. Partial balayage can be easier to style and create a softer, subtler look.
Ultimately, the decision between full and partial balayage comes down to personal preference. Talk to your stylist about what kind of look you’re hoping to
Depending on your hair needs and goals, either full or partial balayage could be the right choice for you. Be sure to discuss your options with your stylist to ensure that you get the look you’re hoping for. They will be able to recommend the best balayage option for you and help determine whether full or partial is better suited for your hair type.
With a little bit of extra care and maintenance, you can have luscious and beautiful locks with the perfect balayage look. Happy styling!
For more information about balayage, check out our blog post.