Foils & Highlights Queenstown

Precision Foiling by Queenstown’s Colour Experts

Foil highlights are one of the most transformative colour services we offer at Iron + Ivy — and in the hands of our award-winning artists, they’re nothing short of art. Whether you’re after a full head of bright, seamless blonde or a half head of soft, face-framing highlights, our team delivers results that are precise, luminous, and built to last.

Foils vs Balayage — What’s the Difference?

Both are highlighting techniques, but they work differently and produce different results.

Foils use sections of hair wrapped in aluminium foil with bleach or lightener. The foil creates heat, which lifts the hair faster and more uniformly — giving a brighter, more even, and higher-contrast result. Foils are ideal when you want maximum lift, defined panels of colour, or a more uniform blonde.

Balayage is hand-painted freehand without foils, producing a softer, more gradual, “lived-in” result with less defined lines.

Many of our clients combine both techniques for a multi-dimensional result — our artists will recommend the best approach based on your hair and your goals during consultation.

Full Head Foils

A full head of foils covers the entire head from root to tip. It’s the go-to service for clients who want:
• A bright, all-over lighter result
• Maximum coverage including the underneath layers
• A dramatic transformation or significant colour change
• Uniform, consistent highlight placement

Full head foil pricing starts from $157 and varies by artist level and hair length.

Half Head Foils

A half head of foils focuses on the top sections and crown of the hair — the areas most visible in natural light. It’s a great option for clients who want:
• Face-framing brightness without the full commitment
• A more subtle, lower-maintenance result
• A quicker and more affordable appointment
• Refreshing existing colour between full head services

Half head foil pricing starts from $127 and varies by artist level.

Why Our Foiling Results Are Different

The difference between average highlights and exceptional highlights comes down to sectioning, placement, and toning. Our colour artists are internationally trained in advanced foiling techniques and understand how light interacts with different hair types, textures, and face shapes. Every foil placement is intentional.

We finish every foiling service with a professional toner to refine the shade, eliminate unwanted brassiness, and deliver the exact result you came in for.

The Consultation Process

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between foils, highlights and balayage?
Foils and highlights use foil to lift precise sections for brightness and definition, while balayage is hand-painted for a softer, grown-out finish. Neither is “better” — it comes down to the look and upkeep you want. Our guide Balayage vs Highlights breaks it down.

What are baby lights?
Baby lights are ultra-fine, delicate highlights woven through the hair for a soft, natural, sun-kissed effect — lovely for adding subtle brightness without bold contrast. More here: Baby Lights, the Secret to Ultra-Natural Highlights

What is a money piece?
A money piece is a brighter, face-framing highlight around the front — a flattering way to lift your look with minimal commitment. Read Money Piece Highlights if you’re tempted.

How often will I need my foils topped up?
It depends on the technique and how much contrast you have with your natural colour — finer, softer work grows out more gently than a full head of bright foils. We’ll recommend a maintenance rhythm that suits your hair and lifestyle.

How much do foils and highlights cost?
Pricing depends on the technique, your hair length and the artist, so we confirm it at consultation or booking — get in touch and we’ll help you choose the right option and give you a quote.

How do I keep my blonde from going brassy?
The right toning, a good purple shampoo used correctly, and regular care all help. Our guide Why Your Blonde Turns Brassy explains how to prevent it.

All new clients to Iron + Ivy are required to book a complimentary consultation at least 48 hours before their appointment. We’ll assess your hair’s condition and history, discuss your goals, and build a plan — including whether foils, balayage, or a combination is right for you.

Foil Highlighting Pricing

Service Starting From
— —
Full Head Foils — Artist $157
Full Head Foils — Lead Artist $187
Full Head Foils — Senior Artist $194
Full Head Foils — Art Director $199
Full Head Foils — Creative Director $213
Half Head Foils — Artist $127
Half Head Foils — Lead Artist $147
Half Head Foils — Senior Artist $152
Half Head Foils — Art Director $155
Half Head Foils — Creative Director $165

All prices are “from” and may vary depending on hair length and product usage.

Book Your Foils Appointment

Ready for brighter, more luminous hair? Book a consultation with the team at Iron + Ivy Hair Studio and let us create a highlighting result that’s built around you.

Book a Consultation

Iron + Ivy Hair Studio
Shop D1-02A/19 Grant Road, Central Shopping Centre, Queenstown 9300