Title: The Difference Between Highlights, Lowlights, and Babylights – Which One Is Right for You?

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Published on: 2025-05-26

When it comes to adding dimension and vibrancy to your hair, the options can sometimes feel overwhelming. Highlights, lowlights, and babylights are popular coloring techniques—but what exactly sets them apart? Understanding these differences will help you choose the perfect look tailored to your style and maintenance preferences.

At Venelle Salon & Spa in Park Slope, Brooklyn, our expert colorists specialize in all three techniques and can guide you to the best choice for your hair goals.


✨ What Are Highlights?

Highlights are sections of hair that are lightened to create brightness and contrast. They give your hair a sun-kissed, luminous effect by adding lighter strands throughout your natural hair.

  • Purpose: Brighten and add dimension

  • Common colors: Blonde, caramel, honey, platinum

  • Techniques: Foil highlights, balayage, babylights (fine highlights)

Best for: Those wanting a lighter, radiant look or to refresh their blonde.

Keywords: highlights Brooklyn, blonde highlights NYC, sun-kissed hair Park Slope


🌰 What Are Lowlights?

Lowlights are the opposite of highlights—they add darker strands to your hair to create depth, richness, and contrast.

  • Purpose: Add dimension by darkening sections

  • Common colors: Chocolate brown, espresso, auburn, deep caramel

  • Effect: Makes hair look fuller and more multi-dimensional

Best for: People with naturally light hair who want a richer tone or brunettes who want subtle variation.

Keywords: lowlights Brooklyn, brunette hair color NYC, rich hair tones Park Slope


👶 What Are Babylights?

Babylights are ultra-fine, delicate highlights that mimic the subtle, natural lightening you’d see in children’s hair after sun exposure.

  • Purpose: Create a soft, natural glow without harsh contrast

  • Technique: Very fine sections of hair lightened

  • Effect: Seamless, blended dimension that grows out beautifully

Best for: Anyone seeking subtle dimension or a natural “just back from the beach” look.

Keywords: babylights NYC, natural highlights Brooklyn, subtle hair color Park Slope


🌟 How to Choose Between Them

Technique Look & Feel Maintenance Level Ideal For
Highlights Bright, bold, noticeable Moderate to high Lightening natural hair, adding brightness
Lowlights Rich, deep, natural contrast Low to moderate Adding warmth and fullness to light hair or brunettes
Babylights Soft, subtle, natural glow Low First-timers, natural-looking dimension

 


🧴 Caring for Highlights, Lowlights & Babylights

No matter the technique, maintaining your color’s vibrancy requires good aftercare:

  • Use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos

  • Avoid excessive heat styling and always use heat protectant

  • Schedule toner or gloss treatments every 4–6 weeks

  • Book regular trims to keep ends healthy


🗓️ Book Your Custom Color at Venelle Salon & Spa

Our color experts in Park Slope, Brooklyn are ready to help you find the perfect balance of light and shadow with highlights, lowlights, or babylights tailored just for you.

📞 Call us at 718.989.9800
🌐 Book online: venellespa.com


✨ Mention this blog for $20 OFF your first color service!


📲 Follow @venellesalonspa on Instagram

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