Hair colour is more than just a beauty choice—it’s a personal statement. If you’ve been Googling “balayage vs highlights”, you’re likely trying to decide which technique aligns best with your look, maintenance level, and lifestyle. At G Majesty in Christchurch, we help clients choose the right hair colour technique based on their individual needs, style preferences, and long-term care goals. In this guide, we’ll explore the difference between balayage and highlights, break down their pros and cons, discuss aftercare, damage prevention, and cost comparison—so you can make the most informed choice for your next salon visit. Understanding the Techniques What is Balayage? Balayage, a French word meaning “to sweep,” is a freehand colouring technique where colour is painted onto the hair for a soft, sun-kissed look. The result is a more natural blend with less noticeable regrowth. Key Characteristics: Hand-painted technique More subtle, gradient finish Focused on mid-lengths to ends No foil used Natural-looking colour transitions What Are Highlights? Highlights involve sectioning off hair and applying lightener with foil for a uniform and structured lightening effect. It creates defined streaks that brighten the overall hair tone. Key Characteristics: Foil-based method More structured contrast Typically applied from roots to tips Ideal for full-colour transformation Greater brightness around the crown Pros and Cons of Each Technique Balayage: Pros Low Maintenance: Regrowth is subtle, making it ideal for infrequent salon visits. Customizable Finish: Ideal for those who want soft, dimensional colour. Less Damage: Because it doesn’t saturate the roots, it’s gentler on the scalp and strands. Trendy Yet Timeless: Perfect for Christchurch women wanting a natural, fashionable colour. Balayage: Cons Not Ideal for Full Lightening: It’s not suitable if you want a dramatic or uniform blonde look. Longer Application Time: Freehand work can take longer depending on hair length and density. Requires Skilled Stylists: A good balayage result depends heavily on the technician’s expertise. Highlights: Pros High Impact: Offers a noticeable colour change. Versatile Styles: Works well with all hair colours and lengths. Custom Placement: Foils allow precise control of brightness and tone. Faster Process: Especially when done by experienced stylists. Highlights: Cons More Frequent Maintenance: Regrowth lines are more noticeable, requiring touch-ups every 6–8 weeks. Higher Risk of Damage: The root-to-tip bleaching can lead to dryness or breakage if not properly treated. Less Natural Finish: Stronger contrast lines may not suit those seeking a blended look. Choosing Based on Hair Type & Style Goals Balayage is Best For: Long hair with waves or curls Natural brunettes wanting sun-kissed ends Anyone wanting a low-maintenance, trendy look Highlights are Best For: Fine or straight hair needing dimension Those desiring an all-over lightened appearance Clients who want bold contrast or traditional blonde streaks Stylist Tip: For many clients, a hybrid approach—subtle face-framing highlights with balayage throughout—can offer the best of both worlds. Hair Damage Prevention & Colour Maintenance (NZ Climate) Christchurch’s climate can influence how your colour ages. Dry air, harsh UV rays, and hard water can fade or damage colour-treated hair. That’s why using professional-grade aftercare products is essential. Recommended Aftercare for Balayage Wella ColorMotion+ Shampoo & Conditioner: Protects hair bonds and colour integrity. Wella Oil Reflections Light Oil: Adds shine and protects against environmental stress. Use Purple Shampoo Weekly: Keeps brassy tones at bay. Recommended Aftercare for Highlights Wella Invigo Blonde Recharge Line: Maintains tone and strengthens hair. Deep Conditioning Weekly: Try Wella Fusion Mask for repairing lightened strands. Minimise Heat Styling: Always use thermal protection like Wella EIMI Thermal Image Spray. Salon Maintenance Tips Balayage Touch-ups: Every 3–5 months Highlight Touch-ups: Every 6–8 weeks Gloss/Toner Refresh: Every 6 weeks for both to maintain tone and shine Cost Comparison: Balayage vs Highlights in Christchurch Pricing can vary depending on hair length, stylist experience, and the salon’s service level. At G Majesty, we focus on delivering lasting results using premium Wella products for every client. Service Average Cost (NZD) Maintenance Frequency Includes Wella Toner? Balayage $250–$320 3–5 months Yes Partial Highlights $150–$220 6–8 weeks Optional Full Highlights $250–$300 6–8 weeks Optional Toner/Gloss $50–$80 6 weeks Yes Note: G Majesty offers custom consultations to assess your colour goals and provide an accurate quote. FAQs What lasts longer: balayage or highlights? Balayage typically lasts longer due to its natural fade and low-maintenance nature. Highlights require more frequent touch-ups because of visible root regrowth. Which is better for covering greys? Highlights can be used strategically to blend grey hair, while balayage is less effective unless paired with a base colour. Does balayage or highlights damage hair more? Highlights can be more damaging since they often involve root-to-tip bleaching. Balayage, when done correctly, focuses on the mid-lengths and ends, reducing scalp exposure and damage risk. Can I switch from highlights to balayage? Yes, but it often requires a corrective colour service to blend the transition. A consultation with a stylist is crucial. Are these services safe for all hair types? Yes, with the right care. Using Wella’s bond-building treatments during colouring significantly reduces damage risks for all hair textures. Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You? Both balayage and highlights offer stunning transformations—but they serve different goals. If you want a natural, low-maintenance look, balayage may be your perfect match. If you prefer bold contrast and precision brightness, highlights will deliver the impact you’re after. Whatever you choose, the colour specialists at G Majesty in Christchurch are here to create a style that enhances your natural beauty while prioritising hair health and longevity. Book a consultation today to find out which technique best suits your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle.
Read MoreLooking in the mirror and wondering, "What haircut suits my face shape?" You're not alone. Christchurch women are embracing customized haircuts that enhance natural beauty while staying in tune with the latest local trends. Whether you're after a sleek transformation or a style refresh, knowing your face shape is the first step toward a flattering, confidence-boosting look. At G Majesty, Christchurch’s go-to hair experts, we combine precision styling with trusted Wella products to give every client a haircut that suits their face, lifestyle, and hair type. Understanding Different Face Shapes Choosing the right haircut starts with identifying your face shape. Here’s how to recognize yours: Oval Face Shape An oval face is well-balanced, with slightly wider cheekbones and a gentle taper to the chin. Often considered the “ideal” face shape, most haircuts work well here. Round Face Shape A round face has equal width and height with softer angles. The goal is often to elongate the face and add definition through the haircut. Heart Face Shape This shape features a wider forehead and cheekbones with a narrower, pointed chin. Balancing volume between the top and bottom halves is key. Square Face Shape Defined by a strong jawline and broad forehead, square faces benefit from cuts that soften those angles. Long/Rectangular Face Shape These faces are longer than they are wide. The right haircut can help create width and reduce the appearance of length. Haircut Recommendations by Face Shape With your shape in mind, here are the best haircut styles to flatter each one: Best Haircuts for Oval Face Blunt Bob – Creates symmetry and modern style. Long Layers – Adds volume and bounce without hiding facial features. Curtain Bangs – Frames the face softly while maintaining balance. Styling Tip: Use Wella’s “EIMI Thermal Image” to protect hair and hold the style longer. Best Haircuts for Round Face Long Straight Layers – Elongates the face while providing movement. Side-Swept Bangs – Breaks the roundness and creates structure. Lob (Long Bob) with Texture – Adds vertical lines for a slimming effect. Product Match: Wella’s “Volumize Uplifting Spray” enhances lift at the roots, giving more dimension. Best Haircuts for Heart Face Pixie Cut with Volume at Crown – Draws the eye upward and balances the chin. Side-Parted Lob – Minimizes forehead width while adding weight near the jawline. Wavy Shoulder-Length Cut – Softens the angles for a more proportional look. Try This: Wella “Oil Reflections” adds a subtle glow to textured, wavy cuts. Best Haircuts for Square Face Soft Waves with Layers – Breaks up the strong jawline and adds softness. Textured Bob – Keeps the look fresh while drawing attention away from angular features. Side Bangs with Shoulder-Length Hair – Gentle contrast to strong facial structure. Stylist Tip: Blend the style with Wella “Nutri-Enrich Frizz Control Cream” to smooth ends and frame the face delicately. Best Haircuts for Long/Rectangular Face Chin-Length Bob – Creates width around the jawline. Layered Curls or Waves – Adds body to reduce vertical length. Bangs (Straight or Wispy) – Helps shorten the perceived height of the face. Must-Have Product: Wella “Boost Bounce Mousse” adds lift and playful curl definition. Hair Types Matter Too Your face shape is just part of the puzzle—hair texture and thickness matter as well. Curly Haircuts in Christchurch Christchurch’s cool air and coastal breeze mean curls need hydration and hold. Deva-style layered curls for face-shaping bounce. Curly shag cuts volume without weight. Wella Tip: Use “Nutricurls Curlixir Balm” for frizz control and natural shine. Fine Hair: What Works Best Fine hair benefits from blunt edges and volume-building layers: Textured lob with balayage highlights Choppy pixie cuts with movement Go-To Product: Wella “Invigo Volume Boost Crystal Mask” adds body without heaviness. Wella Products: The Secret to Salon-Worthy Hair at Home At G Majesty, we proudly use and recommend Wella Professional products—perfect for sustaining your salon style. Color longevity: Wella’s ColorMotion+ range locks in pigment and adds vibrancy. Scalp care: The Balance line nurtures sensitive scalps, keeping your roots healthy. Styling support: EIMI sprays and creams allow for touchable hold, heat protection, and defined texture. Why Wella? Trusted by stylists for over 140 years, Wella products are ideal for the New Zealand climate and hair types. Trending Hairstyles in Christchurch for 2025 Christchurch women are embracing low-maintenance sophistication this year. Top trends include: The Soft Wolf Cut: A modern shag with subtle layering. The Long Italian Bob: Sleek, chin-grazing with middle part. Beachy Layers: Especially for those with medium-long lengths. Glossy Black and Bronde Balayage: Colour techniques that flatter every face shape. Want to stay ahead of the trend? Book a style consultation at G Majesty and let our stylists personalize these looks for your face shape and lifestyle. Final Tips Before Your Haircut Consultation is Key: Bring reference photos and discuss face shape + lifestyle with your stylist. Think Beyond the Cut: Maintenance and styling matter—choose a look you can manage daily. Use Professional Products: Wella ensures your style holds, color shines, and strands stay healthy. FAQs What haircut suits my face shape the best? The ideal haircut depends on your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle. Oval faces can experiment with most styles, while round and square faces benefit from cuts that add height and soften angles. A consultation with G Majesty stylists ensures a tailored look. Can I get a flattering haircut if I have fine or thinning hair? Absolutely. Cuts that add structure—like blunt bobs or layered pixies—work wonders for fine hair. Using Wella’s volumizing products enhances the look further. Do Wella products really make a difference? Yes. Wella products are salon-grade, designed to protect color, add moisture, and provide styling hold. They’re ideal for New Zealand conditions and help maintain salon-fresh hair at home. Are Christchurch hair trends different from global trends? Local styles often blend international trends with regional lifestyle needs—think lower maintenance, humidity-resistant products, and cuts that survive Canterbury’s windy days. Conclusion If you've ever asked yourself, “What haircut suits my face shape?”, you're already on the path to a better, more flattering style. With Christchurch’s top stylists at G Majesty, combined with the proven performance of Wella products, your next haircut won’t just fit your face—it will transform how you feel. Ready for your perfect haircut? Book your consultation today at G Majesty and let your face shape inspire a style that’s 100% you.
Read MoreEyebrows & Eyelashes at Gmajesty: Frame Your Beauty At Gmajesty, we know that well-groomed eyebrows and luscious eyelashes can transform your entire look. That’s why we offer specialized services to enhance your natural beauty with precision and care. Our Eye Trio and Eyebrow Tint services are designed to give your brows and lashes the attention they deserve, leaving you feeling confident and radiant. Our Eye Trio service includes eyebrow shaping, tinting, and an eyelash tint. This all-in-one package ensures that your eyes pop, whether you're heading to a special event or embracing everyday elegance. The treatment is tailored to suit your face shape and personal style, giving you perfectly sculpted brows and bold, defined lashes. For those who prefer a simple enhancement, our Eyebrow Tint service offers a quick and effective way to darken and define your brows. Using high-quality tints, we enhance your natural brow color, making them look fuller and more polished. This service is perfect for anyone wanting a low-maintenance way to keep their brows looking sharp between appointments. At Gmajesty, we combine artistry with expertise to bring out the best in your brows and lashes. Whether you’re looking for subtle definition or a bold, dramatic look, our team ensures you leave with the perfect finish. Enhance your natural beauty with our expert eyebrow and eyelash services. Experience the Gmajesty difference today.
Read MoreNail Art at Gmajesty: Elegance at Your Fingertips At Gmajesty, we believe that beautifully crafted nails are the perfect finishing touch to any look. Whether you prefer subtle elegance or bold designs, our nail services are tailored to meet your style and pampering needs. From manicures and pedicures to advanced nail art and dip powder techniques, we offer everything to keep your hands and feet looking flawless. Our manicure services range from gel removal and tidy-ups to express manicures with either ordinary or gel polish. For those seeking extra durability and style, we provide extensions with builder gel, ensuring long-lasting, beautiful nails. If you prefer a more minimal approach, our dry manicures with gel polish offer a neat and polished finish without the fuss. For feet that need some love, explore our pedicure offerings, including the luxurious Pure Fiji Spa Pedicure, express pedicures, and gel polish add-ons for a splash of vibrant color. Our pedicures ensure your feet feel as good as they look, leaving you refreshed from heel to toe. We also specialize in dip powder nails, offering everything from removal and tidy-ups to natural nails or extensions with dipping powder. This technique provides durability with a sleek finish, ideal for those wanting longer-lasting results. Our nail art options, including French or Ombre styles, let you express your creativity. From simple accents to intricate designs, our skilled artists ensure your nails reflect your personality perfectly. Treat yourself to exceptional nail care and artistry at Gmajesty—where beauty meets precision.
Read MoreBeauty Services at Gmajesty: Elevate Your Elegance At Gmajesty, we believe that beauty is not just about appearance but also about feeling confident and empowered in your own skin. Our salon offers a wide range of beauty services designed to bring out the best version of you, with a focus on relaxation, rejuvenation, and radiance. From luxurious facials that restore your skin’s glow to expertly done makeup for every occasion, we are dedicated to delivering personalized care. Our skilled beauty professionals stay updated with the latest trends and techniques, ensuring that you receive treatments tailored to your unique needs. Whether it's a soft, natural look or bold, glamorous styling, we create looks that complement your features and match your vision. At Gmajesty, we also offer manicures, pedicures, and waxing services, ensuring that every detail of your beauty routine is covered. Using premium products, we prioritize both the health and aesthetics of your skin, nails, and hair, giving you long-lasting results that feel as good as they look. Every visit to Gmajesty is more than just a service—it's an experience of pampering and self-care. Whether you’re getting ready for a special event or simply treating yourself, we are here to make sure you leave feeling refreshed and beautiful. Discover beauty redefined at Gmajesty, where elegance meets excellence.
Read MoreBarbering at Gmajesty: Where Precision Meets Style At Gmajesty, barbering is not just a service; it’s an art form. We believe that a great haircut is the foundation of confidence, and our skilled barbers are here to craft styles that reflect your personality. Whether you’re looking for a sharp fade, a classic cut, or a bold new look, our team combines traditional techniques with modern trends to ensure a fresh and flawless finish every time. We understand that barbering is about more than just a haircut—it's about the experience. At Gmajesty, we create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you can unwind and enjoy top-notch grooming. From precision beard trims and line-ups to haircuts tailored to your lifestyle, our barbers pay close attention to detail, ensuring that every look is a perfect fit. We also use high-quality grooming products that keep your hair and beard healthy, helping you maintain that freshly groomed look long after you leave our salon. Whether it’s for a quick touch-up, a full grooming session, or advice on beard care, Gmajesty offers personalized services designed to meet your needs. Step into Gmajesty, where tradition meets innovation, and every client leaves looking and feeling their best. Because at Gmajesty, barbering is more than grooming—it’s craftsmanship. Discover your style. Experience the difference. Only at Gmajesty.
Read MoreWomen’s Hair Hairdressing: Unlocking the Majesty of Your Look At Gmajesty, we believe that a woman’s hair is more than just strands; it’s an extension of her personality and a crown she never takes off. Whether you prefer sleek elegance, playful curls, or bold transformations, our salon is dedicated to making every hairstyle a masterpiece. The art of hairdressing is all about personalization. From trendy cuts to classic styles, from balayage to highlights, we understand that every woman has unique preferences. Our experienced stylists listen carefully to your vision, offering expert advice to ensure you walk out with confidence and satisfaction. We pride ourselves on staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in women’s haircare. At Gmajesty, we use top-quality products to nourish your hair, ensuring every style is not only beautiful but also healthy. From blow-drys and updos for special occasions to routine trims that keep your hair in shape, we are committed to making your hair journey smooth and enjoyable. Your satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re ready for a dramatic change or just need a refresh, Gmajesty welcomes you with a luxurious experience tailored to your needs. Visit us today and let us help you feel like royalty every day! Because every woman deserves to wear her hair like a crown – only at Gmajesty.
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