Hair Colour and BalayageBalayage vs Highlights: What Is the Difference?


Balayage is painted on by hand for a soft blended finish. Highlights are placed in foils in a more defined pattern for a brighter and more even lift. Balayage starts at $240 and highlights start between $90 and $230 at Alex Hair Salon on Bloor Street West in Toronto.

By Alex · Updated 2026-11-10

Foil highlights being applied to long hair at Alex Hair Salon Toronto top view

Balayage and highlights at a glance

The main difference is how the colour is applied and how it looks as it grows out.

Balayage applicationPainted by hand
Balayage finishSoft and blended
Balayage grow outGentle
Balayage priceFrom $240
Highlights applicationPlaced in foils
Highlights finishBrighter and more even lift from the root
Highlights priceFrom $90 to $230

See the full services for balayage in Toronto and hair highlights in Toronto.

How do the prices compare?

Balayage starts at $240 and highlights start at $90 for a small amount and $230 for a full head.

Face framing or money pieceFrom $90
T zone highlightsFrom $110
Partial highlightsFrom $150
Half head highlightsFrom $175
Full head highlightsFrom $230
BalayageFrom $240

These are starting prices in Canadian dollars. Taxes are extra. Toner and a haircut and a blowout are extra unless I tell you otherwise. Read the full guide on balayage cost.

Which one is right for you?

The right choice depends on the finish you want and how much upkeep you want.

If you want a soft and blended look

Choose balayage. The colour is hand painted and it grows out gently.

If you want more brightness

Choose highlights. Foils give a more defined pattern and a brighter and more even lift from the root.

If you want a smaller change

Choose a smaller highlight service like a money piece or partial highlights. A full head is not needed to add brightness.

Can you mix balayage and highlights?

Yes. Foilyage mixes balayage painting with foils and starts at $270.

Babylights are a very fine highlight and start at $240. Ombre fades from a deeper root to lighter ends and starts at $220. I will tell you which option fits your hair at your consultation.

How do you get the exact price for your hair?

I confirm the price before the service begins.

Your hair length and thickness and your colour history change the final price. Bring photos of the look you like. See the pricing page or book online.

Questions

Frequently asked questions


What is the difference between balayage and highlights?

Balayage is painted by hand for a soft blended finish. Highlights are placed in foils in a more defined pattern.

Which costs more balayage or highlights?

Balayage starts at $240. Highlights start at $90 and go up to $230 for a full head. The right comparison depends on how much hair is coloured.

Which grows out better?

Balayage has a gentle grow out. Highlights can show a clearer line as they grow.

Can I get both balayage and highlights?

Yes. Foilyage mixes both and starts at $270.

Is toner included?

No. A gloss or toner starts at $55 and is extra unless I tell you otherwise.

Keep reading

More Hair Colour and Balayage guides


Book your appointment

Ready for Your Next Hair Transformation?

Discover personalized hair colouring, balayage, highlights, haircuts and extensions with Alex.

+1 647-807-9448

851 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON

CallBook