Babylights: The Finest Highlights for a Sun-Kissed Blend
If you want brighter hair that still looks like yours, babylights are the answer. They are the softest, most delicate way to add light, with none of the stripey contrast of traditional highlights. Here is how they work, who they suit and what to expect when you book at Gusto.
What are babylights?
Babylights are extremely fine highlights, placed in very thin sections of hair. The name comes from the way a child’s hair lightens naturally in the sun: subtle, scattered and seamless. Because each strand is so fine, the lightness blends into your natural colour instead of sitting on top of it.
The result is a soft, multi-tonal glow that catches the light and looks like you have just come back from somewhere warm.
Babylights vs balayage and traditional highlights
The difference is in the finish. Traditional highlights use wider sections, so the contrast between light and dark is easier to see. Balayage is painted by hand for a graduated, lived-in effect, with the lightest tones towards the ends. Babylights use much finer sections, which gives a denser, more even spread of light from root to tip.
If you like the idea of soft dimension but want it all over, babylights are a great choice. To compare the other techniques, read our guides to balayage, teasylights, air touch highlights and half head vs full head highlights.
Who suits babylights?
Babylights work on a wide range of hair. They are especially flattering on natural blondes who want more brightness, light brunettes who want to brighten gently, and anyone who wants a low-contrast first step into colour. They also work well if you want to blend away early grey strands, because the fine lights break up the line between grey and natural colour.
Very dark hair can still wear them, but it needs more lightening to show the effect, so we will talk through how far to go and what is realistic in one visit.
How long do babylights take and how long do they last?
Because the sections are so fine, babylights take longer than a standard highlight. Expect a thorough appointment, and a proper consultation first so we can map out the placement and tone around your hair.
The upside is how well they grow out. With no obvious root line, many clients are comfortable going several months between visits, and a toner or gloss in between keeps the shade fresh. Our guide to hair toners explains how.
Looking after babylights
Lightened hair needs a little extra care. Use a colour-safe shampoo, keep heat styling to a minimum, and add a repairing treatment such as WNt Revive to keep the lightened strands soft and shiny.
Not sure if babylights are right for you? Book a consultation and our colourists will talk you through the options before anything touches your hair.
