When it comes to hair color, there are countless techniques a stylist might use to give you the look you desire. Whether it’s adding classic highlights to brighten up your locks, incorporating lowlights for extra dimension, or even creating a multi-dimensional masterpiece with balayage, the options are endless. But today, we’re here to talk about babylights—the subtle yet impactful hair color trend that’s taking the beauty world by storm.
What Exactly Are Babylights?
Babylights, also known as finely woven highlights, are the key to achieving a natural-looking glow in your hair. These ultra-fine highlights are meticulously placed throughout the hair to mimic the soft, sun-kissed hues often seen on children’s hair during summer. They’re designed to look delicate and subtle, often giving the impression of naturally sun-bleached hair.
Think of it as the “no makeup” look, but for your hair! The result? A vibrant, blended color that can easily be mistaken for your natural hue.
Why Babylights Are the “It” Trend for Natural Vibes
Also referred to as “playground highlights,” this trend has made a major comeback in recent years, especially in this year. It’s all about recreating the natural highlights you had as a child when your hair caught the sun just right. Unlike traditional highlights, babylights use a very fine weave pattern that results in a more seamless and less noticeable transition between your natural hair color and the lightened strands.
This technique allows for a fresh, sun-kissed finish without looking overly salon-styled. Perfect for anyone seeking an effortless and low-maintenance change.
Babylights vs. Highlights: What’s the Difference?
While babylights are technically a form of highlighting, they’re a much more refined and subtle version of the classic technique. Regular highlights often involve thicker sections of hair and are placed to create a bolder contrast against your natural color.
Remember the chunky “tiger stripe” highlights of the early 2000s? Babylights are the polar opposite of that look. The thin, delicately woven nature of babylights results in a natural, sun-drenched appearance that doesn’t scream “just out of the salon.” They’re ideal for those who want a “beach babe” aesthetic rather than a high-contrast, color-blocked effect.
What Makes Babylights Unique?
Babylights are incredibly versatile—they can be applied to virtually any hair color, length, and texture. However, they work especially well on straight, fine hair. This is because the finely woven highlights can add depth and the illusion of thicker strands without overpowering the hair. “If babylights were a pasta, they’d be angel hair,” says Mark DeBolt, a renowned colorist and co-owner of Mark Ryan Salon in NYC. They’re delicate and super-thin, yet on the right hair textures, they can truly make a bold, statement-making difference.
Babylights vs. Balayage: Choosing the Right Technique
While balayage is another beloved technique known for its natural, hand-painted effect, it differs from babylights in several ways. Balayage involves freehand application of bleach or color onto the hair, resulting in a soft transition between the base and highlights. Its purpose is to mimic the natural look of grown-out hair, giving a more lived-in vibe. On the other hand, babylights focus on emulating the natural highlights seen in sun-kissed hair. Some stylists may even combine both techniques to create a beautifully customized look.
Are Babylights Worth the Investment?
Babylights typically require a higher level of precision and more time in the salon compared to other highlighting methods, which might make them pricier. However, the end result—a stunning, natural-looking finish—is well worth it. The good news? Because babylights grow out seamlessly, they often require fewer touch-ups. You can get away with visiting your colorist anywhere from every six to eight weeks to just twice a year, depending on your personal preference and hair growth rate.
How to Keep Your Babylights Fresh and Fabulous
One of the best things about babylights is that they’re relatively low-maintenance. Since they don’t create harsh lines of demarcation, you won’t have to rush back to the salon for a touch-up as often. That said, some maintenance is necessary to keep them looking vibrant. Invest in color-safe shampoo and conditioner to preserve the color’s freshness and shine. Pro tip: A hair gloss treatment in between salon visits can also make a huge difference in maintaining that “just-sun-kissed” glow.
Who Should Consider Babylights?
Babylights are ideal for anyone who craves a natural, sunlit look without the upkeep of traditional highlights. They’re particularly well-suited for those with straight, fine hair, as they add a sense of depth and dimension that can make the hair appear thicker.
As colorist Rita Hazan explains, “Babylights are perfect for fine hair because the technique is subtle but creates high impact.”
For thicker, coarser hair, traditional highlights may be more suitable since they offer a more visible color contrast.
How to Ask Your Stylist for Babylights
Thinking about taking the plunge? It’s best to leave babylights to the pros, as the technique requires expertise to achieve a seamless, natural effect. When consulting with your colorist, share your vision and consider bringing photos to showcase the look you’re aiming for. Not all stylists specialize in babylights, so make sure to do your research beforehand. Your colorist will help customize the application to complement your hair’s texture, length, and natural color.
If you’re searching for a subtle yet impactful hair color change that’s easy to maintain and enhances your natural beauty, babylights might just be your perfect match. They offer a sophisticated, natural look with a touch of sun-kissed vibrancy. While they may not be the technique to choose if you want to define the shape of your haircut, they excel in providing a beautifully blended, elevated finish that gives off the appearance of thicker, healthier hair. So, whether you’re in the mood for a summer refresh or simply craving a soft, natural look, babylights are the way to go!
