Here’s the Difference Between Full, Express & Partial Lightening Services

Lightening Services 101: Brunettes AND Blondes

May 13, 20252 min read
Want a colour change that requires lightening? Here’s the Difference Between Full, Express & Partial Lightening Services

Going lighter doesn’t always mean going blonde. Whether you’re dreaming of soft caramel ribbons, a warm honey brown, or just brighter dimension in your natural base — lightening services are your best friend. But with so many service types (Full? Express? Partial?), how do you choose?

Let’s break it down simply, so you can book your next appointment with confidence.

The Full Lightening Service


 This is your “big change” service. Perfect if:

  • You're starting from virgin or dark hair

  • You want a major lift (blonde or lighter brunette)

  • You’re okay with a 6+ hour session

We use 180+ grams of lightener, tone to your desired shade (which may require multiple layers, like nail polish!), and finish with a root melt or shadow for a blended look. This is a once-a-year kind of transformation. Think balayage, full foils, or global lightening with max coverage.


Hair Express Lightening


Think of this as a “level up” without going all in. You already have some highlights or dimension, and you want to refresh or build on it.

Great for:

  • Adding brightness around the face

  • Enhancing an old balayage

  • Starting subtle and building lightness slowly

Time: 4–5 hours, using ~120g lightener + toner. It’s dimensional, beautiful, and budget-conscious — especially if you come in 2–3 times a year.


Hair Partial Lightening


This is your maintenance service — crown, part line, a few foils around the hairline. Ideal for keeping your color looking fresh between bigger appointments.

Perfect for:

  • Highlight/balayage upkeep

  • Subtle refresh every 6–8 weeks

  • Lower product use (~80g lightener)

Quick 3-hour visit, high impact where it matters most.


Reminder:
If your hair is extra thick or long, we might use more time + product. That’s where the “+” comes in — Partial+, Express+, Full+ — it’s all about what YOUR hair needs.

All services include:
✔️ Custom toning
✔️ Hair treatment
✔️ Blowout + style
✔️ Complimentary trim

Whether you’re going for icy blonde, golden caramel, cinnamon brunette, or something in between — these services are tailored to help you get there.

TAKE OUR PERSONALIZED HAIR CARE QUIZ
The quiz takes just 2 minutes! In no time, you’ll receive a personalized hair care routine tailored to your hair type, texture, and specific concerns

Salon Owner, Licensed Hairstylist, Makeup Artist, Healthy Hair Expert

Sonam D.

Salon Owner, Licensed Hairstylist, Makeup Artist, Healthy Hair Expert

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