Everything You Need to Know About Balayage Hair (+How to Get It)

You’ve probably come across hundreds of “balayage” hashtags on social media. Balayage is a French word that means to “paint” or “sweep”. Balayage is a form of hair art, created by applying hair color rather than a specific color itself, involving coloring the hair freehand with use of a brush. 

This incredible technique unfolds hair color that brings about a lightened, naturally blended look. 

The cost of balayage varies depending upon where you’re getting it done and the state of your hair. For this reason, it’s important to first consult your colorist before booking the appointment. During this appointment, your colorist will tell you how many touch-ups you might need. 

The price of balayage can cost over $400 in NYC or cost as low as $150 in other parts of the country. While there are several types of balayage techniques, the two most common types include:

• 3D Balayage: A not-so-good hair color typically ends up leaving the hair color looking drab or flat. This is where 3D makes a difference. It adds a “multi-tonal dimension” to your hair. Here, lights and shadows come together to give the illusion of voluminous and thick hair. 
• Ribbon Blonde Balayage: This technique includes incorporating “ribbons” of blonde or lighter shades against a darker backdrop. It’s popular among fashionistas who love their natural hair color but just want to polish it up a little bit.

Getting Balayage Done the Right Way

Getting balayage is a big fashion decision. Here are a few quick steps to take before making the final decision:

• Bring several variations of photos to help your stylist understand what you’re looking to achieve.
• Clean your hair thoroughly to avoid any buildup of oil, product, or other impurities from interfering with the process.
• Prep your hair using a conditioning treatment a few days before your appointment. 

How to Care For Your Hair After Balayage

Caring for your hair post-treatment is essential, as the color at the end of your hair strands can get dry if neglected. Using moisturization tools like the Supreme Revitalizing Mask can protect your hair from feeling dry. Of equal importance is using color safe shampoos and conditioners, so as to keep the treatment from fading. If you are looking for an iced-out blonde look, you can also use a purple shampoo once in a while to make sure the color doesn’t go too warm. In addition, you can go for hairline touch-ups and toning to retain the brightness and desired tone. 

Can You Do Balayage For Yourself? 

Balayage typically demands a certain level of skill and mastery, since it follows a multi-tonal approach. While there are several balayage techniques available on the internet, it’s always recommended to get it done by a professional. Not only will the results undoubtedly look better, but you will be saving yourself a lot of time and frustration in the process.