It has become apparent to us at KP that although the term balayage is used daily in our world, the meaning can cause a bit of confusion or curiosity to other people and our customers! So what even is a balayage? Is it a particular colour? Can I have balayage on my hair even though its short? I have dark hair can I have balayage? These are just some of the questions we have been faced with, to be able to clear up any questions you may have and to create your desired look exactly how you would like, we have put together the following questions and answers that will hopefully help you choose your service with us.
What is balayage?
Balayage is a French word meaning to sweep or to paint. It’s a freehand hair colouring technique that gives a really blended natural look with no harsh or obvious regrowth lines.
Balayage allows for a sun-kissed natural looking hair colour, with softer, less noticeable re-growth. The principal idea being less is more when creating a natural, multi-tonal finish. The technique uses patches of light and shades to create multiple dimensions to the colour.
How is balayage applied?
Balayage is painted on the surface of the hair strand and not saturated through the section until the very tips. This ensures a smooth, blended stroke of colour.
How long does it take to do balayage?
The depth of balayage can vary so much from a few small highlights that will only take a matter of minutes to a full on, triple process look that can take up to 3 hours. If you want a few balayage babylights this may take as little as 45 minutes.
What sets it apart from traditional hair colouring?
Balayage is quite different to traditional highlights because the colour is painted on freehand. The finished result is less uniform than typical highlights. If you’ve ever been worried about having stripy colour after a visit to the hairdressers, balayage is a sure way to avoid that harsh contrast between colours – especially if you’re going blonder.
The colour created is totally bespoke to you and can even be placed in a way to compliment or distract attention away from certain features on the face.
Is it suitable for all hair types/lengths?
It works on both light and dark hair depending on how much lighter you want to go and all hair textures. Whether it’s straight, wavy or curly the colour will still work well and look great.
The technique is particularly popular amongst celebrities with long, textured hair as it creates a beautiful, beachy style.
What’s the difference between ombre and balayage?
Balayage is a totally blended hair look, there are no lines or blocks of colour and the graduation between shades is much more subtle.
Ombre hair has a more defined contrast between the roots and tips of the hair with colour starting mid-way down the strands. Ombre colour is a more noticeable, statement look compared to Balayage.
Does balayage work on grey hair?
Balayage works for all colours but the only thing it won’t do is cover grey hair. It will only help blend in the grey to disguise it so if you want full coverage for greys it might not be the right choice for you.
What makes it timeless?
Balayage creates a totally bespoke, personalised colour finish. Healthy, natural looking hair will always be ‘in’ which is why the technique has remained popular for so many years. Depending on what you’re looking for the finish can be subtle or quite bold. It’s the ability to completely tailor the colour effect that makes this such a popular colour choice.
To see some of our balayage work at Kate Preston check out our Instagram page – @kateprestonsalons