Partial Highlights vs. Full Highlights: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 13, 2024
Partial Highlights involve coloring sections of hair, usually around the face, for a subtle change, while Full Highlights involve coloring strands throughout the entire head for a dramatic transformation.
Key Differences
Partial Highlights are a hair coloring technique where only certain sections of hair, typically around the face, are lightened. This method offers a more natural and subtle enhancement. Full Highlights, in contrast, involve lightening strands of hair all over the head, creating a more uniform and noticeable change.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
The objective of Partial Highlights is to create depth and dimension in specific areas, often to frame the face. Full Highlights aim to give a more consistent, all-over lightening effect, which often results in a more dramatic look compared to the subtlety of Partial Highlights.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
In terms of maintenance, Partial Highlights usually require less upkeep, as the grow-out is less noticeable due to the strategic placement of highlights. Full Highlights, covering the entire head, can have more noticeable regrowth, requiring more frequent salon visits for upkeep.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Partial Highlights are often preferred by those seeking a minor change or who wish to experiment with highlights without committing fully. Full Highlights are chosen by individuals looking for a significant change in their hair color or to substantially lighten their overall hair look.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
The time taken and cost involved in Partial Highlights are generally less since fewer sections of hair are colored. Full Highlights require more time and can be more expensive due to the extensive work involved in highlighting the entire head of hair.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Coverage
Selective sections, usually around the face
Throughout the entire head
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Feb 13, 2024
Maintenance
Lower, with less noticeable regrowth
Higher, due to more noticeable regrowth
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Feb 13, 2024
Ideal For
Minor change or first-time highlighters
Significant color change or overall lightening
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Feb 13, 2024
Time and Cost
Generally less time-consuming and cheaper
More time-consuming and expensive
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Feb 13, 2024
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Partial Highlights and Full Highlights Definitions
Partial Highlights
Coloring specific hair sections
I got Partial Highlights around my face for a subtle glow.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Full Highlights
Requires regular maintenance
Maintaining my Full Highlights involves frequent salon visits.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Partial Highlights
Subtle, natural-looking
Partial Highlights give my hair a sun-kissed look.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Full Highlights
Time-consuming and expensive
Getting Full Highlights was a longer, costlier salon experience.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Partial Highlights
Ideal for first-time highlighters
For my first highlights, I went with a partial technique.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
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Full Highlights
Coloring strands all over the head
I got Full Highlights for a complete hair transformation.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Partial Highlights
Cost-effective hair enhancement
Partial Highlights are budget-friendly and effective.
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Jan 21, 2024
Full Highlights
Dramatic and noticeable change
Full Highlights significantly lightened my hair color.
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Jan 21, 2024
Partial Highlights
Less maintenance required
I chose Partial Highlights for easier upkeep.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Full Highlights
Ideal for a significant color change
I chose Full Highlights to dramatically lighten my hair.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 21, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
How do Full Highlights differ from Partial?
Full Highlights involve coloring strands throughout the entire head.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
What are Partial Highlights?
Partial Highlights involve coloring select sections of hair.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Are Full Highlights suitable for dramatic change?
Yes, they're ideal for a noticeable, all-over color change.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Are Full Highlights good for dark hair?
Yes, they can significantly lighten darker hair.
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Feb 13, 2024
Who should choose Partial Highlights?
Those seeking subtle changes or minimal maintenance.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Do Full Highlights work on short hair?
Yes, they can be applied to hair of any length.
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Feb 13, 2024
Do Partial Highlights cost less?
Generally, yes, due to less hair being colored.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can I do Partial Highlights at home?
It's possible, but professional application is advised.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Is upkeep for Full Highlights demanding?
Yes, they require more frequent salon visits.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can I switch from Full to Partial Highlights?
Yes, you can change the highlighting technique.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are Partial Highlights visible in updos?
Yes, especially if placed around the face.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can Partial Highlights look natural?
Yes, they're often used for a natural, sun-kissed effect.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
How long do Partial Highlights take to apply?
They usually take less time than Full Highlights.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Will Full Highlights damage my hair?
They can be more damaging due to extensive coloring.
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Feb 13, 2024
Do Full Highlights cover gray hair?
They can effectively blend in gray hair.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are Full Highlights a good choice for thin hair?
They can be, but consultation with a stylist is recommended.
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Feb 13, 2024
How do Full Highlights affect hair texture?
They may alter texture slightly due to the coloring process.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can I get Partial Highlights with curly hair?
Yes, they work well with all hair types.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
How often should I touch up Partial Highlights?
Typically less often than Full Highlights.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can Partial Highlights add volume?
They can create an illusion of depth and volume.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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