Introduction

Balayage was a hair game changer when we first heard about it.

We didn’t have to sit with our heads in foils for what felt like three days just to wind up with hair that looked like Nicole Richie circa 2003.

No, Balayage is a hair colouring fad that revolutionised the industry.

Balayage was requested by everyone from Alexa Chung to Rihanna to create that beautiful ‘just been kissed by the sun in the Maldives’ caramel hair.

Could we, however, describe what it was? Most likely not…

Balayage: Everything You Need to Know

What is Balayage?

‘Balayage is a French term that means ‘to sweep’ or ‘to paint,” Howard says. ‘It gives you a sun-kissed, natural-looking hair colour, like what nature provides us as kids.’

What is Ribbon Blonde Balayage, and how does it work?

Summer is here, and with it comes the newest balayage style: Ribbon Blonde. Ribbon Blonde is the best out-of-lockdown transition colour for those who have grown to love their natural shade but want to zhush it up a little. Ribbon Blonde is the ultimate out-of-lockdown transition colour for those who have grown to love their natural shade but want to zhush it up a bit.

This balayage style refers to an understanding of how views regarding colour care have evolved throughout the epidemic by infusing tonal ‘ribbons’ of blonde across a darker backdrop.

The best aspect is that it’s entirely customizable, so it looks fantastic on everyone with any hair type or skin tone. Your colorist may integrate a variety of blonde tones for Bondi-beach worthy dimension, whether you want the blonde to give strong contrast definition or something a little softer.

How can you know if your Balayage is done correctly?

The Balayage pieces should be close together and soft at the root, with a thicker highlight at the ends. Balayage should be applied to the section’s surface and not saturated all the way through until the very tips, otherwise you’ll end up with a stripe of colour that isn’t particularly soft.

You’ll Need These Balayage Hair Ideas For Your Next Salon Visit

How do you know if your Balayage isn’t working?

Hair may not lift properly and appear orange if the necessary products are not used and monitored, or if the treatment is washed off too soon.

When using bleach, it’s important that the person applying it understands when to stop – this may vary depending on your hair type and colour. If your Balayage seems uneven, it’s likely because to improper application and placement.

Remember that Balayage is an art form, so seek expert help or watch a lot of videos before attempting it at home.

What should you do if your Balayage turns out to be a disaster?

If you’ve had Balayage but are disappointed with the result, don’t panic; it can be repaired, but it may require a colour correction depending on the extent of the damage.

This may be anything from a root melt to combining the Balayage to toning down and starting over. Always seek advice and guidance from an expert.

What is the difference between Balayage and Ombre?

Balayage is a highlighting method, named from a French term that meaning “to sweep or paint.” ‘Ombré means’shadow,’ and it’s a smooth transition from darker to brighter. People are often perplexed by the two, but you can mix them in a merged approach that is quite lovely.

Sombré is a softer variant of ombré that has remained popular, particularly with the charcoal grey trend.

What’s the difference between highlights and Balayage?

Balayage highlights are softer, less visible regrowth lines than typical highlights, with the main principle being that when hair comes to producing soft, natural appearances, less is more. Balayage mimics the portions of your hair that would naturally brighten in the sun, so there’s no stripy appearance like you’d get with foil highlights.

Furthermore, because no foil or meche is required to produce the highlights, Balayage is a freehand method.

What should you do before getting Balayage?

1. Talk about it
   We are a strong believer in consultation as an important part of the colour process; you should meet with your colorist at least 48 hours before to your appointment so that they can go over your selections and perform an allergy test.
2. Get Your Inspo Sorted
   When you ask for balayage, bring in photos that you like to show what you’re seeing in your brain – either from a magazine or from your phone. Your colorist will be able to tell you if it will fit your skin tone – there are so many beautiful colours out there, some warm and others cold, but you must get it just right.
   
3. Find The Right Salon For You
   Before going to the salon, do some homework. Examine your hair salon’s Instagram profile; each colour should appear unique. If each customer’s application is the same, it isn’t unique to them; instead, each client should have a custom application that works with their cut.

Is Balayage suitable for textured, kinky, or afro hair?

Balayage works on all hair types, although curly hair is a little simpler since you can pick and choose which curls to colour. The choice of pre-lightener (bleach) or colour is based on the final appearance you wish to create, not the texture.

Are there certain hair colours that are compatible with Balayage?

Balayage is a highlighting method that may be applied to any hair colour.

Is it possible to get Balayage with short hair?

Absolutely – it’s the same ideas with short hair; application is governed by the haircut and should always flow naturally.

So here it is! Your all-in-one guide to the wonders of Balayage.