Unveil the Charm of Balayage: The Hair Color Revolution

The Enchanting World of Balayage

In French, "balayage" translates to "to sweep". Highlights are artistically hand-painted or "swept" onto random sections of hair. The dye or lightener is applied with a brush, beginning midshaft and gradually becoming denser towards the end of the hair. With no cap or guide, the result is a natural sun-kissed glow that offers a less strictly patterned finish than regular highlights.

Balayage vs. Traditional Highlights

Unlike traditional foil or caps, balayage is a freehand technique. Foils deliver a uniform finish, while balayage presents more natural results. The colorist (or you) can apply the color in specific areas to enhance your features, creating a more lived-in look.

Balayage vs. Ombre

Ombre hair color transitions from a dark color at the roots to a lighter color at the ends, creating a gradient effect. In contrast, balayage highlights are strategically placed throughout your hair, resulting in a piecy, dimensional appearance rather than a uniform color.

Creating Balayage Highlights at Home

With a DIY home kit, you can celebrate sun-kissed locks without the hassle and expense of visiting the salon. For instance, our Preference Balayage Kit creates luminous highlights and includes professionally inspired tools and a new root blending mask for a natural-looking smokey root effect.

Does Balayage Work on Dark Hair?

Achieving the desired result requires more work if your starting color is darker and you want lighter balayage highlights. Blonde balayage is most common, but you could also opt for a darker shade like caramel or auburn. This will cause less damage to your hair and give you a more natural look. If you're aiming for platinum blonde balayage, you'll probably need to bleach first – even if you already have light hair.

How Long Do Balayage Highlights Last?

One of the charming aspects of balayage highlights is their low maintenance. They grow out naturally without leaving a harsh regrowth line or requiring frequent touch-ups. The longevity of your hair color depends on how you care for it – as well as your hair color and length.

Beyond Classic Balayage

Discover new dimensions with 3D or 4D Balayage, which adds multi-tonal dimension to your hair, similar to contouring. Smoky Gold Balayage offers one of the most luxurious takes on balayage hair, combining ash and espresso tones with a subtle gold lift. Reverse balayage reintroduces depth to blond hair by adding lowlights and darker strands.