Balayage highlights, the effortlessly cool hair color trend, has been making waves since 2014. With a soft effect that resembles how your hair would naturally lighten up after a summer trip to the beach, this is one hair-highlighting technique that’s worth trying out.

How do you know if balayage will suit you?

Achieving a sun-kissed look without using foils, this technique is easier than traditional highlights and doesn’t require frequent touch-ups. Plus, it’s safe for natural hair and won’t cause as much damage.

Choosing your hair type and the look you want to achieve are key factors in deciding which color technique is right for you. If you have natural brown or black hair, a classic balayage highlight is a good option.

Another popular hair-highlighting technique is ombre, which is a gradation of color from darker roots to lighter ends. This is a great way to add depth and dimension to your hair, especially on short and medium-length hair.

What’s the difference between ombre and balayage?

The name ombre comes from the French words for “shade” and “gradation.” It’s a great way to create a natural-looking hair color transition on dark or dark-brown hair.

Maintaining balayage hair can be a challenge, but with the right products and techniques, you can have beautiful color for months to come! Start with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner and avoid harsh chemicals.

What to expect at your next balayage appointment:

A partial balayage takes 45-90 minutes, while a full balayage can take 1.5-3 hours on average. The length and thickness of your hair will affect the amount of time needed to complete a balayage.