Thinking about giving your hair a fresh, sun-kissed glow with highlights? You’re probably wondering, “How much does it cost to highlight hair?” Whether you want a subtle change or bold streaks, understanding the price can help you plan your beauty budget wisely.
The cost of highlights varies depending on where you live, the technique used, and the salon’s expertise. You’ll discover the typical price ranges, what influences the cost, and tips to make your highlights last longer—all tailored to help you get the look you want without surprises.
Keep reading to find out how to achieve gorgeous highlights that fit your style and budget perfectly.
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Highlighting Techniques
Highlighting hair involves different techniques that create various looks. Each method changes your hair style and color effect. Prices vary depending on the technique used. Understanding these methods helps you choose the right one for your style and budget.
Two popular techniques are foil highlights and balayage. Both offer unique results and costs.
Foil Highlights
Foil highlights use thin sheets of foil to separate hair strands. The stylist applies color or bleach on these strands. This method lifts color sharply and creates a bright, defined look. Foil highlights suit those wanting a bold contrast. The process takes more time and skill. It often costs more due to the precision and materials needed.
Balayage And Ombré
Balayage is a hand-painting technique that creates soft, natural highlights. It blends colors smoothly from roots to ends. Ombré offers a gradient effect, usually darker roots and lighter tips. Both give a sun-kissed, natural appearance. They require less frequent touch-ups than foil highlights. These methods may cost less in some salons because they use less foil and take less time. However, the price depends on hair length and stylist expertise.
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Average Costs By Location
Hair highlight costs vary widely by location. Understanding average prices in different areas helps plan your budget. Prices depend on salon quality, stylist experience, and local market demand. Below are typical costs to highlight hair in Austin, Texas, and across the state. Real salon price examples give a clearer picture of what to expect.
Prices In Austin, Texas
In Austin, highlights usually cost between $100 and $160. Many salons offer full head highlights starting around $140. Some high-end salons charge up to $200 or more. Balayage and ombré styles may cost slightly higher. Austin’s vibrant beauty scene keeps prices competitive.
Statewide Price Variations
Texas shows wide price differences depending on city and salon. Larger cities like Dallas and Houston often have higher rates than smaller towns. Prices in Texas range from $80 in smaller towns to $180 in luxury salons. Local demand and salon reputation strongly influence costs.
Salon Price Examples
Salon Vibe in Austin charges $114 to $160 for blonding services. A full head of highlights at some Texas salons costs about $130 to $170. Mid-range salons offer prices near $120 on average. High-end salons can charge $200 or more for premium highlight services.
Factors Influencing Price
The cost of hair highlights depends on several key factors. These affect the final price you pay at the salon. Understanding them helps you plan your budget better.
Each factor plays a role in how much time and products are needed. This influences the overall cost of your hair highlight service.
Hair Length And Thickness
Longer hair takes more time and product to highlight. Thicker hair also requires extra effort to cover all strands. Both increase the price of your highlights.
Short or thin hair usually costs less because it uses fewer materials. Salons charge based on how much work they need to do.
Type Of Highlights
Different highlight techniques vary in complexity and time. Foil highlights, balayage, and ombré each have unique costs. More detailed styles often cost more.
Balayage and ombré require skilled hand-painting, raising the price. Foil highlights are quicker but still depend on the number of foils used.
Salon Reputation And Expertise
High-end salons with expert stylists charge more for highlights. Their experience and skill justify the higher price. They also use quality products.
Local or less-known salons may offer lower prices. Choosing a reputable salon can ensure better results and longer-lasting color.
Cost Comparison
Understanding the cost differences between highlighting and other hair coloring options helps you choose better. Cost depends on the technique, salon, and hair length. Comparing highlights to full color reveals how each option fits your budget and style needs.
Touch-up schedules and the lifespan of the color also affect the overall value. A clear cost comparison saves money and keeps your hair looking fresh longer.
Highlights Vs. Full Color
Highlights often cost more than full color at first. They require more skill and time to apply. Salons charge for the precision and the number of sections highlighted.
Full color usually costs less for the initial session. It covers all hair uniformly, needing less time. However, full color can require more frequent touch-ups, increasing long-term cost.
Touch-up Frequency
Highlights need touch-ups every 8 to 12 weeks. This depends on hair growth and color contrast. Fewer touch-ups mean less money spent over time.
Full color touch-ups are needed every 4 to 6 weeks. Roots show quickly because the entire hair is colored. Frequent visits raise the total cost.
Longevity And Value
Highlights tend to last longer without looking outdated. They grow out naturally, so roots are less visible. This adds value by reducing salon visits.
Full color fades evenly but may look dull faster. The need for more touch-ups can reduce overall value. Choosing highlights can give better long-term satisfaction despite a higher starting price.
Maintaining Highlights
Maintaining highlights is key to keeping your hair looking fresh and vibrant. Highlights add brightness but need care to last longer. Proper upkeep saves money by reducing frequent salon visits.
How Long Highlights Last
Highlights usually last between 6 to 8 weeks. The exact time varies by hair type and color. Darker hair with light highlights shows regrowth faster. Light colors may fade quicker than darker tones. Frequent washing can also shorten the lifespan of highlights.
Tips To Extend Color Life
Wash hair less often to avoid fading. Use dry shampoo to keep hair fresh without water. Always wash with cool water to keep color sealed. Avoid heat styling tools or use heat protectants. Protect hair from sun exposure by wearing hats or using UV sprays.
Recommended Hair Care Products
Choose shampoos and conditioners made for color-treated hair. Purple shampoo helps keep blonde highlights from turning brassy. Use deep conditioning masks weekly to keep hair healthy. Leave-in conditioners protect hair and maintain moisture. Avoid shampoos with sulfates, as they strip color faster.
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Additional Services And Costs
Highlighting hair involves more than just the color application. Additional services can impact the final price. These extras enhance the look and help maintain hair health. Understanding these costs helps you budget better for your salon visit.
Full Head Vs. Partial Highlights
Full head highlights cover all hair strands. This process takes longer and costs more. Partial highlights focus on specific sections, usually around the face. They use less product and require less time. Prices for full highlights range higher than partial. Choose based on your style and budget.
Combining Highlights With Haircuts
Many clients get a haircut with their highlights. Combining services saves time and often reduces total cost. Salons may offer package deals for both services. A fresh cut improves the overall hair appearance. Expect to pay more than for highlights alone.
Add-ons And Treatments
Extra treatments protect hair from damage during coloring. Deep conditioning or Olaplex treatments are common add-ons. These help keep hair soft and strong. Add-ons can add $20 to $50 to your bill. They are a good investment for healthy, vibrant hair.
Finding Affordable Options
Finding affordable options for hair highlights helps you enjoy a fresh look without overspending. Many choices fit different budgets and styles. You can find great deals by exploring various salon types and even considering at-home methods. This way, you get the best value for your money while keeping your hair vibrant.
Discount Salons And Promotions
Discount salons offer lower prices by using less expensive products. They often run promotions during holidays or slow seasons. These deals can cut the cost of highlights significantly. Watch for special packages that include highlights with other services. Booking appointments during off-peak hours can also save money.
Salon Chains Vs. Local Studios
Salon chains usually have fixed prices and standardized services. They may offer loyalty programs or group discounts. Local studios tend to be more flexible with pricing. They might customize services to fit your budget. Sometimes, local stylists provide personal attention and unique styles. Compare prices and reviews to find the best option for you.
Diy Highlighting Considerations
Doing highlights at home can save a lot of money. Kits are available at drugstores with easy instructions. Choose a product that matches your hair type and color. Mistakes can happen, so follow directions carefully. Remember, DIY results may not last as long as salon highlights. If unsure, consider a professional touch-up later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost To Highlight Your Hair At A Salon?
Highlighting hair at a salon typically costs between $100 and $300, depending on location and technique. Prices vary by city, salon reputation, and highlight style chosen.
How Long Does A Hair Highlight Last?
Hair highlights typically last 6 to 8 weeks. Factors like hair growth, washing frequency, and color type affect longevity. Use color-safe products and cool water to maintain vibrancy longer. Regular touch-ups help keep highlights fresh and vibrant.
How Much Is A Full Head Of Highlights Usually?
A full head of highlights usually costs between $150 and $350, depending on salon location and stylist expertise.
Is It Cheaper To Highlight Or Dye Hair?
Dyeing hair is generally cheaper than highlighting because it requires less time and fewer products. Highlights often cost more due to the technique and longer salon time.
Conclusion
Highlighting hair costs vary by salon, technique, and location. Expect to spend between $100 and $300 for a full head of highlights. Prices depend on hair length, stylist skill, and color complexity. Touch-ups every few months help keep your look fresh.
Choosing the right salon and care routine saves money over time. Plan your budget wisely to enjoy beautiful, vibrant highlights without surprises.
