Full Head, Half Head or T-Section Highlights?

Hi, I’m Jane Kirby, a colour specialist here at Baileys Hairdressing in Grantham. If you’re considering highlights but not quite sure whether to go for a full head, half head or T-section, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get from clients across Grantham and the surrounding Lincolnshire villages is: What’s the difference, and which one is right for me?

In this post, I’ll break down the key differences between Full Head, Half Head and T-Section highlights, so you can make an informed decision before your next salon visit.

What are Highlights?

Highlights are a brilliant way to add brightness, contrast, and dimension to your hair. At Baileys Hairdressing, we use professional foiling techniques to lighten sections of your hair while blending them with your natural tone. The result? A beautiful, multi-tonal finish that enhances your cut and frames your face.

Whether you're looking to go brighter all over or just add a soft lift to the top and sides, there's a highlight option to suit every style and budget.

T-Section Highlights – Perfect for Quick Refreshes

Best for: Clients who already have highlights and want a tidy-up in between full or half head services.

A T-section focuses on the top section of your hair, following the shape of the letter ‘T’. That includes:

• The parting area
• The front hairline
• The crown/top

Pros:

• Quicker and more affordable than a full or half head
• Great for keeping regrowth in check
• Ideal if you wear your hair down or parted in the middle

Keep in mind: It won’t brighten the underneath layers, so this is best used as a maintenance option rather than a full transformation.

More about T-Section Highlights

Half Head Highlights – A Popular All-Rounder

Best for: Adding lightness and dimension without committing to a full head of colour.

A half head of highlights covers:

• The top of the head
• The crown
• The front and sides of your hair

This service leaves the underneath section natural, which is ideal if your hair is darker underneath or you often wear it down.

Pros:

• Adds a noticeable lift while keeping some of your natural colour
• Less time and cost than a full head
• Can be built on with lowlights or a toner

Keep in mind: If you often wear your hair up, you might notice darker sections underneath.

Explore Half Head Highlights

Full Head Highlights – Maximum Impact

Best for: Clients looking for a full transformation or consistent colour from root to tip.

A full head includes highlights applied all over your head – front, back, crown, and underneath.

Pros:

• Gives an overall brighter, lighter look
• Perfect if you wear your hair up or in different styles
• Can completely change your tone while still looking natural

Keep in mind: It takes a little longer and costs more than a half head or T-section, but the results are worth it.

Learn about Full Head Highlights

My Professional Advice as a Colour Specialist in Grantham

When choosing the right highlight option, it really depends on your:

• Hair goals
• Budget
• How you wear your hair daily
• Time between salon visits

Many of my clients in Grantham start with a full head, then alternate with half heads or T-sections to maintain the look without over-processing. We can also tone or gloss your colour in between to keep it looking fresh and shiny.

At Baileys Hairdressing, we only use high-quality colour and conditioning treatments, so your hair stays healthy and strong after every service.

Book Your Highlight Consultation in Grantham

Still unsure which one’s right for you? Come in for a consultation and we’ll chat through your hair history, lifestyle and colour goals. Together, we’ll create a bespoke plan that fits you perfectly.

Call us on 01476 576668 or book online today.

Jane x