The most-asked question in any colour consultation. Both lighten the hair. Both look good. The technique, price, maintenance, and grow-out are different. Here is how to decide.
Side by side
| Factor | Balayage | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Hand-painted, freehand | Foiled sections |
| Look | Soft, lived-in, sun-kissed | More uniform, controlled lift |
| Grow-out | Soft - no harsh line | More visible regrowth |
| Refresh | Every 3-4 months | Every 6-12 weeks |
| Time per appointment | 2.5-3 hours | 2-2.5 hours (full head) |
| Full head price (Senior) | £145 | £130 |
| Full head price (Director) | £155 | £140 |
| Best for grey blending | Light grey, soft transition | Heavier grey, full coverage |
| Best on dark hair | Yes, with realistic timeline | Yes, more uniform lift |
| Annual cost (Senior, est.) | £435 (3 appts) | £520-£780 (4-6 appts) |
* Prices accurate as of April 2026 and may have changed since. Confirm current pricing when booking.
Choose balayage if...
- You want low maintenance and infrequent salon visits.
- You want a soft, hand-painted look that grows out gracefully.
- Your hair is mid-length to long.
- You like a more sun-kissed, dimensional finish.
- You are happy waiting 3-4 months between full appointments.
Choose highlights if...
- You want more uniform lift across the whole head.
- You have significant grey to blend.
- You don't mind a 6-12 week refresh schedule.
- You want a sharper, more "highlighted" finish rather than soft balayage.
- Your hair is shorter (balayage needs length to graduate).
Have both?
Yes, plenty of clients combine highlights through the top with balayage on the lengths. We plan this in consultation - the goal is one coherent finish rather than two competing techniques.
Skin test policy
For any colour or chemical service, we require a skin (patch) test 48 hours before your appointment. This is mandatory for all new clients. It takes two minutes and protects you against allergic reactions. Book the patch test when you book the service, or call us on 0208 994 8008.
Find us
Hair @ Number 3
Bedford Corner, W4 1LD
Chiswick, London
Tel: 0208 994 8008
Email: info@hairatnumber3.co.uk
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday closed. Earlybird appointments are available on request.
The salon sits on Bedford Corner, a short walk from Turnham Green tube (District line), Chiswick Park tube, and the heart of Bedford Park. We are easy to reach from Chiswick High Road, Acton (W3), Hammersmith (W6), Ealing, and the wider west London area.