Is a Money Piece Enough, or Do You Need Full Highlights?

A money piece and full highlights can look alike in a photo, but they solve different problems. One changes the hair around your face. The other changes your whole head. The right choice comes down to what's bothering you when you look in the mirror.

What's the real difference?

A money piece puts the color where people look first. Full highlights spread it throughout your hair. Partial highlights sit between the two, and they're often the option people overlook.

When is a money piece enough?

It's probably enough if you can say yes to most of these:

• You like your base color and just want a lift
• You usually wear your hair down, so the front stays visible
• You're testing a lighter look before committing to more
• You want to try a bold shade in a small area

A money piece is also a good test run. If you love it and want more, you can build on it later.

When do you need full highlights?

A money piece won't fix hair that looks flat all over. Bright pieces next to a dull base can look disconnected, which is the opposite of what most people want. Full highlights are usually the better choice if:

• You want to look noticeably lighter from every angle
• You tie your hair back most days, because the front pieces get pulled in with everything else
• Old highlights have grown out and left a heavy line through your hair

If you'd like a softer grow-out, our comparison of balayage vs highlights is worth reading before you book.

How much does the price really differ?

Less than you might expect between partial and full. Karen's full highlights start only $13 to $20 above her partial highlights, depending on your length. Those are starting prices, and your thickness and color history can change them.

A money piece has no published price, so don't assume it's a small fraction of a highlight appointment. Ask for a quote, and ask whether toner is included.

Does a money piece mean less lightening?

It means less hair gets lightened, but not necessarily a gentler lift for those pieces. If your base is dark and you want a very pale front, those strands still have to go a long way. The American Academy of Dermatology says lightening more than three shades takes higher volumes of peroxide, which causes more hair damage. A softer contrast may ask less of your hair, and it can still brighten your face.

How do you decide?

Bring two photos: one of what you want, and one of what you have now. Tell Karen whether you mostly wear your hair up or down. If you want something bolder that doesn't sit at the front, read about peekaboo color.

To talk it through, call to book a consultation with Karen in Georgetown, TX.