If you’re searching for a natural-looking way to get highlights, Balayage hair is the way to go. 

Balayage is a French word that means “to sweep” or “to paint.” This type of hair color technique is perfect if you want to add some depth and dimension to your locks. In this article, we will discuss what Balayage hair is, how it’s done, and the benefits of using this coloring method.

Balayage hair popularized in 2014 has been a trend ever since. The technique is the most popular hairstyle of the last decade and is responsible for the recognizable hair color seen on red carpets and on Instagram. It looks natural and is definitely one of the best hairstyles out there. 

What is Balayage Hair?

Balayage, also known as BAH-LEEAHGE in French, means “sweeping” or using a hair lightener to add highlights. Balayage is a technique for highlighting which isn’t based on foils. It refers to the process of free-hand painting highlights on the hair which is essential for blended-drink-inspired colors like brown ale and raspberry bourbon. 

Is Balayage Hair Colour for Me?

This is a common question that many people ask when they are thinking about balayage for the first time. The answer is that balayage can be done on any hair type, length, and texture. 

The balayage technique uses a specialized brush to hand-paint color onto your hair. This means that your colorist can customize the balayage highlights to suit your hair type and face shape. 

Balayage is perfect for those who want to add some dimension and depth to their hair but don’t want the upkeep of traditional highlights. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance way to change up your look. 

If you’re considering balayage for the first time, we recommend booking a consultation with a colorist to discuss your options. During the consultation, your colorist will be able to assess your hair type and color and make recommendations based on what will work best for you. 

There are many preferences when it comes to application. Some colorists prefer not to separate the hair. Others use cotton pieces or foil as a divider. Although there are many different ways to achieve balayage, the main reason it has become so popular for colorists is the ability to choose the hair they wish to highlight. 

Balayage creates a natural, blended, sun-kissed look and soft gradation in lightness towards the ends. It gives the hair a beach look or a natural, imperfect glow. This natural-looking technique is used on any shade of hair. Balayage hair is loved by both clients and colorists for its versatility. It also looks much more natural than traditional highlights which makes it far easier to maintain.

What’s the Difference Between Balayage Vs Highlights?

Balayage is similar to highlights but it has some key differences. Highlights are made by covering sections of hair with foil or meche. Balayage, however, is freehand and does not require any sectioning. 

Highlights appear as statement stripes, while balayage hair is more natural-looking but softer. The casual dyeing approach to balayage allows your stylist to be more creative with the placement of colour. This will allow your stylist to frame your face perfectly.

What Are the Various Types of Balayage Hair?

Soft blonde and caramel balayage are classics, but there have been many innovations to the technique. If you don’t like flat colours, 3-D Balayage can give it more dimension. 

To add depth and dimension to the free-flowing color, you can use two colours instead of one. This technique adds more shadows and makes your hair look thicker and more vibrant than virgin hair.

Similar trends are being created with Balayage hair colour. The smokey gold balayage is a combination of espresso and ash tones that emphasizes the hair’s face-framing tendrils at the front and ends. 

You can always try innovations and improvements, such as reverse balayage. Make sure to choose the right hairstylist to recommend the best type of balayage.

How Do You Get Balayage Done Right?

To ensure that balayage is done correctly, there are some guidelines. These are some tips to keep in mind:

  • The Balayage hair pieces should be placed close together, with subtle highlights at the roots and thickening towards the ends.
  • The Balayage color should only be applied to selected areas and not all over.
  • The colour should be soft and light, with the right lift, and without any bright, brassy orange tones. This will require the use of high-quality products and the perfect timing.
  • A uniform flow of colour is important. If there is uneven balayage, something has gone wrong during the bleaching process.

Don’t worry if your balayage isn’t perfect. All you need to do is some colour correction. There are many ways to fix your balayage – from root-melting shampoos to toning shampoos that add colour or brightness. A professional can help you assess the damage and make the necessary repairs to achieve the desired results.

What Are the Benefits of Balayage Hair?

Balayage hair color is not only stunning but also has many practical benefits.

  • It’s trendy, modern, and more attractive than foil highlights.
  • You can customize it to use different techniques like pearly balayage or babylights.  
  • Balayage can adapt to your natural hair growth cycle. The dyeing process allows for tonal changes without the need to go to the salon.
  • You can also customize it to suit your hairstyle, facial features, and skin tone. A hairdresser who is skilled in balayage can apply the colour to the right areas without affecting the cut or base colour of your hair.
  • Balayage appointments take only 15 minutes to complete the backwash and 45 minutes for the more extensive lightening. It’s a low-maintenance color and simple colour-care techniques are sufficient to keep it looking vibrant and safe.

Experience The Best Balayage Hair with L’Ombre

You’ve decided to have balayage done. Now what? Here are some tips to help you prepare for your balayage appointment.

Pick a salon

Balayage is as important as choosing the colour. This is because the creativity and experience of the stylist will determine how your hair turns out. 

You have two options: 

  • go to your regular colourist
  • look online for stylists who are well-known for creating beautiful balayage

At L’Ombre Hair and Beauty Salon, we specialize in balayage hair. Our team of expert colorists will work with you to create the perfect balayage highlights for your hair type and face shape. Our Balayage Hair treatment starts at €100.

Consultation

You shouldn’t expect to be able to walk into a salon with stunning balayage done in an instant. A consultation must be completed at least 48 hours before you can settle in a chair. This consultation is to fully educate you about all the available options and to run an allergy test to determine if you have any adverse reactions to particular brands of colour.

Collect your Inspos

No matter what color you prefer, you need to be able to find inspiration images to match the type of dye job that you want. Your hairdressers Dublin will consider all your preferences and choose the best details for you.

Check out these gorgeous Balayage Hair from our beautiful L’Ombre clients: