AirTouch vs. Traditional Foil: Which Technique Lasts Longer?

Author:
Published on: 2025-06-04

When it comes to getting highlights that look flawless and last, two techniques dominate the conversation in 2025: AirTouch and traditional foil highlights. While both can deliver beautiful results, they differ significantly in blending, maintenance, and longevity.

At Venelle Salon and Spa in Park Slope, Brooklyn, we offer both methods — and we’re here to break down the pros, cons, and most importantly, which one lasts longer.


💨 What Is AirTouch?

AirTouch is a modern highlighting technique that uses a blow dryer to gently push out shorter and fragile hairs before applying lightener. This ensures that only healthy, longer strands are colored, resulting in:

✅ A seamless blend
✅ Less damage
✅ A natural, sun-kissed grow-out

AirTouch is all about soft transitions and graceful fading. It’s ideal for those who want beautiful dimension without a visible root line.


🧯 What Are Traditional Foil Highlights?

Foil highlights are the classic go-to method. Hair is sectioned, teased or not teased, and wrapped in foil with lightener to create:

✅ Defined streaks of brightness
✅ High-contrast dimension
✅ A bold, often more dramatic look

Foils are great for achieving more lift and intensity, but the grow-out can be more noticeable depending on placement and color choice.


🕒 Which Lasts Longer?

🥇 AirTouch Wins for Longevity

AirTouch typically lasts longer between appointments because:

  • The blend from roots to ends is softer, making grow-out lines less visible

  • The color is strategically feathered, not stacked right against the scalp

  • You can go 3 to 6 months before needing a refresh — some clients even stretch to 7!

In contrast, foil highlights often need touch-ups every 6–8 weeks, especially if applied close to the root with a high contrast color.


💬 Maintenance Matters

Both techniques can benefit from:

  • Color-safe shampoo

  • Toning glosses every 4–6 weeks

  • Deep conditioning masks to keep your strands shiny and strong

At Venelle, we offer glossing and hydration add-ons to maintain your look without full re-highlighting.


👩‍🦳 Who Should Choose What?

Choose AirTouch If You Want:

  • Low-maintenance, long-lasting color

  • A soft grow-out and blended look

  • To refresh old highlights without harsh lines

  • A modern, high-end feel

Choose Foil Highlights If You Want:

  • Bold, defined lightness

  • More lift (great for going from dark to blonde)

  • A more dramatic, structured highlight

  • Precision for short hair or certain styles


🛠️ Our Expert Stylists Will Guide You

At Venelle Salon and Spa, our master colorists customize every service. Not sure which is best for you? We’ll evaluate your hair type, lifestyle, and goals to help you decide between AirTouch vs. foil — or even combine the two for a hybrid look.


📍 Book the Right Highlights for You in Park Slope, Brooklyn

Whether you’re ready for long-lasting AirTouch or prefer the pop of classic foils, Venelle Salon and Spa is your go-to hair destination in Brooklyn. We’re located in Park Slope, just minutes from Clinton Hill, Carroll Gardens, and Downtown Brooklyn.

📞 Call to schedule your consultation: 718.989.9800
🌐 Book online anytime: www.venellespa.com


Say goodbye to harsh lines and constant touch-ups — and hello to effortlessly gorgeous color that lasts.