Are you torn between full vs partial highlights and unsure which one is right for you? You’re not alone.

This is one of the most common color questions our stylists at Hāste Urban Hair Spa hear from clients.

Maybe you want to brighten your look without a huge commitment, or perhaps you’re ready for a bold transformation.

Whether you’re after subtle dimension or head-turning brightness, this guide will break down the pros, cons, maintenance, and results of both highlighting techniques so you can make the best choice for your hair goals.

Quick Comparison: Full vs Partial Highlights

Feature	Full Highlights	Partial Highlights
Coverage	Entire head: top, sides, back, and underneath	Selected areas only, usually top layer or face-framing pieces
Look	Dramatic, noticeable change	Natural, subtle enhancement
Customization	Ideal for bold color shifts or gray coverage	Excellent for soft blending, sun-kissed effects
Maintenance	Touch-ups every 6–8 weeks	Touch-ups every 8–12 weeks
Hair Health	Higher risk of dryness or damage	Gentler, less chemical processing
Cost	Higher: $175–$500 depending on length & thickness	Lower: $100–$300 depending on length & thickness
Styling Flexibility	Works well with updos, braids, and layered cuts	Best for casual, down styles
Best For	Full transformation, gray coverage, high-impact change	Enhancing natural color, soft glow-ups

What are Partial Highlights?

Partial highlights involve adding lighter pieces to specific sections of your hair, usually the top layer and around the face.

They’re perfect for creating a soft, natural glow without fully committing to a new color.

Think of it as a sun-kissed refresh that enhances your natural tones without the drama.

👉 We often recommend partial highlights for face framing, especially if you’re looking to brighten your features without the cost or upkeep of a full head of foils.

💡 Quick Tip: Partial highlights pair beautifully with balayage or soft foil work for added depth and dimension without over-processing your strands.

Pros:

• Lower cost than full highlights
• Less damage to the hair
• Great for subtle changes and maintenance

Cons:

• Doesn’t change the overall hair color
• Less impact when you tie your hair up

Are partial highlights for you? Let’s explore the options using the following techniques and colors.

Best Partial Highlight Options

1. Face-Framing Highlights – Brighten features without altering overall color.
2. Subtle Blonde – Peek-through blonde adds dimension to long bobs and waves.
3. Golden Waves – Lighten the top layer, leaving roots natural for a lived-in look.
4. Red Balayage Accents – Add vibrancy without full-head bleach.
5. Soft Browns – Slightly lighter shades enhance sleek styles.
6. Cool Playful Colors – Scatter highlights on top layers for short or curly hair.
7. Classic Bronzed Look – Bronze/honey highlights for a natural finish.
8. Cool-Toned Balayage – Easy-to-maintain layers with toner.

Partial highlights are ideal for brown and dark hair, softening your look while remaining low-maintenance.

👉 Learn how you can achieve this with a Balayage

What are Full Highlights?

Full highlights involve lightening hair throughout the entire head, from the underside layers to the crown.

This technique creates a consistent, all-over brightness that’s perfect for those who want a significant change or need to blend grays.

💡 An excellent option for anyone transitioning from dark to light shades, especially when looking for a bolder style.

Pros:

• Brighter, more dramatic results
• Uniform look when hair is tied or styled
• Ideal for significant color changes or gray coverage

Cons:

• More expensive than partials
• Requires more frequent touch-ups
• Higher risk of dryness or damage without proper aftercare

👉 At Hāste, we always recommend a deep conditioning treatment after full highlights to maintain softness and shine. Come talk to us.

💡 Did you know that there are 13 highlight techniques available? Learn more about each one with us.

Best Full Highlight Styles

1. Blonde-Brunette Bronde – Mix tones for a chic, gradual transformation.
2. Icy Blonde – Baby lights all over for a trendy, cool finish.
3. Multi-Dimensional Highlights – Adds volume and depth for all hair types.
4. Bold Color Mix – Blonde, red, or purple tones for dramatic flair.
5. Warm Auburn Accents – Subtle warm tones without full saturation.
6. Classic All-Over Blonde – Gradual highlights to achieve dream blonde.
7. Dark Hair Highlights – Strategic placement for a balayage effect.
8. Layered Full Highlights – Soft, bouncy layers for brown or blonde hair.

👉 While here and considering highlights, check out our article on what a hair color correction is and how to thicken fine hair.

Cost, Time & Maintenance Considerations

Partial Highlights:

• Cost: $100–$300
• Touch-ups: 8–12 weeks
• Time: Shorter salon session
• Maintenance: Lower; less regrowth visibility

Full Highlights:

• Cost: $175–$500
• Touch-ups: 6–8 weeks
• Time: Longer session
• Maintenance: Higher; requires frequent care

💡 If you’re still unsure which to choose, ask your stylist for a custom plan. At Hāste, we sometimes recommend starting with full highlights and maintaining the look with partials every few months.

How to Decide Between Full and Partial Highlights

Choose partial highlights if:

• You want a low-maintenance refresh
• You prefer a soft, sun-kissed effect
• You’re new to hair color or lightening

Choose full highlights if:

• You want a major transformation
• You wear your hair up often and want even coverage
• You’re covering a lot of grays

👉 Still undecided? Book a consultation at Hāste Urban Hair Spa and our expert colorists will guide you based on your hair type, lifestyle, and goals.

👉 Also, check out the latest trend in highlights, airy lights that blend in perfectly with your natural hair.

Do Partial Highlights Work On All Hair Colors?

Here is a two-sided answer: yes or no. Anyone can have a partial highlight to adjust the levels and depths of their hair color.

The only time we say no is because many people think that once one is done, it will look like everything is done and be more cost-effective.

Still, from our point of view, having partials done can appear disconnected when viewed from the underside, as it lacks cohesion with the color at the top.

Yet, no matter which one you choose, the important thing is to use the correct products to maintain your fresh color. Hence, it is essential to use a quality shampoo and conditioner.

It will keep your hair hydrated while strengthening it, so why not invest in a deep conditioning treatment after your coloring?

Still, if you’ve highlighted your hair and want to return to a gray color, we also have some valuable tips to help you achieve this.

Are You Ready For a Change?

Whether you want to dip your toes into a lighter look or commit to a bold color overhaul, understanding the difference between full and partial highlights is the first step.

At Hāste Urban Hair Spa, we’re here to help you choose a style that enhances your beauty while keeping your hair healthy and glowing.

👉 Ready to find your perfect highlight match? Book your appointment today.

💡 Don’t forget to ask about our nourishing post-color treatments to extend the life of your highlights and keep your hair soft and shiny.

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