Balayage is a French word meaning to sweep or to paint.

It allows for a sun-kissed natural looking hair colour - similar to what nature gives us as children - with softer, less noticeable regrowth lines. The principal idea being less is more when creating soft, natural looks. 

 

How is it applied? 

Balayage is applied on the surface and not saturated through the section until the very tips, otherwise you would have a streak of color that isn’t vey soft at all. It can also be called a freehand technique because no foil or meche are used to create the highlights.

What sets it apart from traditional hair coloring? 

It’s totally up to you! A good balayage expert will be able to place the color to suit your skin tone so it’ll look amazing and really light up your features. But don't get it confused with layage - a similar but more precise technique.

What's making it so popular recently? 

It’s a skilled technique that hasn’t been widely taught in the UK until recently. Now it’s becoming better known because all the models and A-listers are wearing it. Clients are seeing it on the catwalks and red carpets and want to get that finish rather than the uniform highlights that foils give.

Does it require a lot of maintenance? 

Very little. It grows out beautifully and more naturally so you don’t get an obvious regrowth line and and can wear it for longer between appointments. All you really need to do is protect it as you would any other color: use a color protecting shampoo and conditioner, regular treatments and heat protection when styling.