Balayage

Balayage is a freehand colouring technique, which when done properly, leaves softer, less noticeable regrowth lines. This allows for a sun-kissed, natural looking hair colour.  In French, the word means to sweep or to paint.  In the salon however, the word has become a way of life…

Is Balayage and Ombre the same thing?

Balayage is a colouring technique, and Ombré is a gradient of hair colour. We use the technique (balayage) to achieve the finish (Ombré). Balayage offers gorgeous highlighting that looks naturally lightened while keeping things relatively low maintenance.

How long does balayage last?

One of the biggest perks of this style is that it doesn’t require as much upkeep as traditional colour. The blended finish means you can leave longer between your salon appointments, and depending on the style you go for, you can leave up to four months between top-ups.

However, in general balayage does take a bit longer than foil because the stylist goes through piece by piece to customise the colour. This highlighting technique is also a bit more expensive. This is because it takes more thought and creativity from the stylist.

Because a balayage involves lightening and toning certain sections of your hair, the effect is permanent, although the colour might fade slightly after a few months if not looked after properly. We recommend salon professional shampoos and conditioners to maintain your look for as long as possible.

To keep your balayage fresh, we look to make small tweaks. For a good balayage, we always recommend coming to the salon approximately every 3 to 4 months. So, once the initial balayage is done, the next balayage is all about tweaking it – getting it moved up or keeping the colour fresh, completely bespoke to you.

Is balayage just for curly hair?

Though balayage looks fabulous on curly hair, it is also great for straight hair too. For clients with straight hair, a balayage technique with some extra highlights and natural tones worked through works well. Which avoids a potentially harsh line, and blends softly between the colours, creating a fabulous look.

What if my hair is grey?

If as a client you have a noticeable amount of greys or you just prefer a darker root to your natural colour, then we can colour and blend your root area as well. This is usually known as a ‘Colour Melt’. This is in addition to your balayage price, but can be achieved on the same appointment.

During maintenance balayage appointments you will need a root touch up as well.

First time colour clients are required to arrange a complimentary consultation and be skin/ patch tested a minimum of 48hours prior to any colour services.