Foils & Balayage 

Understanding Balayage: A Comprehensive Guide

​

What is Balayage?

Balayage, derived from the French word for 'sweeping,' is a freehand colouring technique. Colour is painted directly onto specific sections of the hair without using foil, resulting in a natural, sun-kissed hue with no harsh contrast between colours. It's a customizable way to refresh your look subtly.

​

Balayage vs. Highlights

Balayage offers a softer, more natural appearance compared to traditional foil highlights. It creates delicate, golden lines that mimic sun-kissed hair, with less noticeable regrowth lines.

​

Balayage vs. Ombre

Balayage provides a blended, graduated colour with no harsh lines or blocks. In contrast, ombre has a more defined contrast between the roots and ends of the hair, starting midway down the strands. Sombre, a subtler version of ombre, offers a more seamless blend but is still more dramatic than balayage.

Full vs. Partial Balayage

• Full Balayage: Lightens all your hair using the balayage technique.

• Partial Balayage: Applied only to the top and outer layers, leaving the underlying layers your natural colour.

​

What is Reverse Balayage?

Reverse balayage involves adding dark colours as lowlights near the roots and throughout the hair to add depth and texture. It can tone down brassy blonde balayage or provide a refreshing change.

​

Transitioning from Foil Colour to Balayage

You don't need to grow out the existing foil colour before getting balayage. This low-maintenance technique can be applied over existing colour, working with your hair’s natural tones. It can also refresh roots and cover greys with a natural balayage colour.

​

Balayage for All Hair Colours

While blonde shades are popular, balayage can be done in various colours. It's perfect for those new to hair colouring, offering multi-tonal shades that add depth and texture for a cool, effortless look.

​

Salon Time for Balayage

The duration varies based on the number of highlights. Simple highlights take about 45 minutes, while layered balayage can take up to three hours. Consult your colourist to determine the best option and time required.

​

Cost of Professional Balayage

Professional balayage can be costly, starting at around $175.  Discuss the full cost with us beforehand, including any additional services like haircuts or blow-drying.

​

Balayage and Grey Hair

Balayage works on all hair colours, including grey, but it won’t cover grey hair. It helps blend grey, allowing you to embrace your natural colour. For full grey coverage, other colouring techniques may be more suitable.

​

Balayage and Hair Health

Balayage is less damaging than regular bleaching or frequent root touch-ups, as it doesn’t use foils and heat. However, it’s still a chemical treatment, so proper aftercare is essential. Our Detox Mask can provide a deeply hydrating boost for dry, distressed hair.

​

Getting the Perfect Balayage

A good cut creates the ideal base for balayage. Your stylist can recommend the best cut and colour to suit your features and skin tone. Bring inspiration pictures to your appointment to help your stylist understand your desired look.

​

Balayage for Different Skin Tones

• Pale Skin: Blonde, red, and light to dark brown balayage work best.

• Medium Skin Tones: Warm blondes, soft browns, chocolate browns, and reds are ideal. Cool shades like blues or purples are also flattering.

• Dark Skin Tones: Warm or ashy blondes, caramel, and light colours complement darker skin tones beautifully.

​

Longevity of Balayage

Balayage can last 3-4 months, depending on root colour, hair growth, and care. It blends seamlessly into your natural hair, avoiding visible roots as it grows out.

​

Maintaining Balayage Hair

Balayage requires less maintenance than a full head of colour. Use products designed to cleanse and enhance your highlights, keeping your balayage hair looking beautiful.

​

​

Ready to transform your look with balayage?

​

​

Book a consultation with us to explore the best options for you!