Everyone seems to loosely know the term balayage. They know its the new school type of highlights that they should probably ask for. But what really is balayage?
There are so many beautiful pictures floating around the internet of gorgeous highlighted hair. Some are real people's hair and some are AI generated pictures. (Don't forget AI generated photos aren't real beauty standards in which we should hold ourselves to.) So how does someone really know what to ask for at their hair appointment?
Balayage, by definition, is a coloring technique that creates a gradient highlight that flows from dark to light. Not to be confused with it's less-cool sister technique, Ombré. (which can often look more solid on the bottom, a bit more dip-dyed). Balayage originates from the french work balayer, which means "to sweep."
This technique is traditionally applied in a sweeping hair painting motion. It is generally an open air technique that produces a subtle, gentle amount of warm lightness.
Balayage has evolved over the years and for good reason. All canvases are different and require a customized approach. A detail oriented stylist will consider things like the history of your hair. Do you have previous color on your hair? Is it hair color from a salon or from home or a combination of the two? How does the integrity of your hair feel? Does your desired result embody warm colors or are you requesting a more neutral or cooler finish?
These things determine wether you are a good candidate for traditional balayage. If you aren't, don't fret, foilayage may be a better option for you. Foilayage is a modern-day hair coloring technique that creates a balayage look while utilizing foil. The foil helps isolate and incubate the lightener to produce additional lift and a lighter result.
Balayage and Foilayage are typically followed by a demi permanent color referred to as a gloss, glaze or toner. These technique combinations create a soft, dimensionally rooty effect that lends itself to a low maintenance grow out and less frequent visits to the salon.
It never hurts to bring photos to your appointment! Photos can help translate your desired result when at times it is hard to describe. Keep in mind the photo is best used as inspiration and it is not wise to expect your hair to look completely identical to the photo. Your stylist should consider your hair texture, facial coloring and lifestyle when creating your own version of the inspiration picture.
Lastly, if you're still feeling unsure about what you want or what's best for you specifically, a separate day consultation can put your mind at ease. This is usually a 15-30 minute appointment where a stylist can sit and talk with you about your questions while getting to know your hair type in person. You two can formulate a plan and proceed with making an appointment if desired.
If you're ready for a fresh balayage, let's do it! Our stylists would love to meet with you and make a plan for your hair. Visit the team page of this website and request an appointment today. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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