What is Balayage? Most clients think I'm speaking a foreign language to them when they hear this word. Well, technically I am. Balayage is a French term that translates to "to sweep". This application technique has swept the nation the past couple of years and now is a growing trend done in salons every day. Many clients are still uniformed about balayage and how they can use it to their advantage. Knowing the difference between this technique and more traditional techniques can help help anyone figure out if balayage is right for them.
1. Balayage does NOT mean ombre
Every time the word "balayage" comes out of my mouth, clients automatically assume that I am talking about Ombre and might be immediately turned off. Balayage is often associated with ombre because this is a technique that is commonly used to create the gradual effect ombre is known for. This technique can be used to create all types of variations of color. A client can have anything from the most subtle, natural looking highlights to a bright, sun kissed blonde from roots to ends.
2. How is it done
Balayage is a free-hand technique as apposed to the traditional foil patterns. Using just a brush and a paddle to apply, the product is painted on with full control by the colorist. The colorist can control how big or small any section is and can put the product wherever they choose to put it.
3. Custom colored hair
Since the colorist has complete control to put the product wherever they please, this gives the advantaged to personalize anyones hair color. No two clients will ever look the same, therefore not everyones color should be done the same. Every client has a different eye color, skin tone and natural base color. Their hair color should be personalized for them from placement and tone to compliment their natural features
4. Healthier than highlights
Balayage can be considered a much healthier approach than traditional highlights. Traditional highlights are done by placing hair into aluminum foil. Heat is produced inside the foil, causing the product to process more rapidly. If the hair is not checked frequently, it can be left inside the foil for to long and this can eventually cause breakage. Hair that is balayaged is left by itself with only a layer of cellophane over it. The cellophane generates very little to no heat and being that it's translucent the hair can easily be watched.
5. Longevity
The great thing about balayage is that your most likely not running to the salon every 6-8 weeks to get your roots done. Since it is often more of a natural look, the growing out process is much more forgiving then traditional highlights. Sometimes, it actually looks better the more it grows out because that harsh root line is more softer and subtle. This allows the next salon visit to be stretched out a few more weeks or even months.
The balayage technique is used to create beautiful colors. For those who want a more natural look or just looking to try something new, this is a great thing to consider during your next appointment.
