Balayage Guide: Everything You Need To Know | Rush
Whether you’re new to hair dye or frequently change your hair colour, you’ve likely heard the term ‘balayage’. This timeless technique originated in France in the ’60s and gained popularity in America in the ’90s. It took a bit longer for the UK to catch on, as we were still enamoured with chunky, skunky highlights until the mid-’00s (and now they’re making a comeback…). But what exactly is balayage, and why has it become such a beloved hair trend? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about balayage!
So, what is balayage and what does it mean? ‘Balayage’ comes from a French word meaning ‘to sweep’. This highlighting technique involves painting the hair with ribbons of colour, freehand, for a blended, multidimensional finish. As the colour doesn’t start at the roots, you can achieve a low-maintenance style with balayage; ideal if booking regular hair appointments is not your strong suit.
Want to know if you’re looking at balayage? It’s completely customisable to each person’s taste, but you’ll see characteristic soft strokes of colour towards the mid-lengths into the ends. Balayage highlights are the perfect choice if you want a sun-kissed, natural look or a lighter, brighter mane. As little or as much colour can be added to your tresses as you desire, creating a bespoke ‘do that is uniquely yours
It’s meticulous art, but the results are worth it!
How to pronounce balayage
It’s pronounced ‘BAH-LEE-AHGE’, or sometimes, ‘BAH-LAY-AHGE’. Don’t worry too much about how you say it though, a good hairdresser is sure to know what you’re talking about straight away. And once you fall in love with your very own balayage style, you’ll never forget how to say it again!
Balayage process: How long does it take?
Your chosen balayage could take anywhere from an hour to three hours to achieve, depending on the desired look, hair density, and length. The balayage process involves sectioning the hair, painting on the colour freehand, and allowing it to process before rinsing and styling.
It’s meticulous art, but the results are worth it!
How long does balayage last?
The average balayage lasts around three to four months when properly looked after. The beauty of balayage is its soft, natural regrowth, which requires far less maintenance than traditional highlights.
To maintain the vibrancy, visit your hairdresser for a toner in between full appointments.
What does balayage look like grown out?
Balayage grows out beautifully, requiring far less maintenance and salon visits! The softer regrowth makes this technique perfect for someone wanting to lighten their hair without the pressure of root upkeep. To keep your colour fresh and full of shine, we advise booking a gloss or toner in-between your colour appointments.
We also recommend professional home-care products to keep your hair and colour at its best. Our favourites are Kerastase Blond Absolu for all those blonde babes and Kerastase Chroma Absolu for any other colour.
How much does balayage cost?
Balayage is a very personalised technique; the cost depends on various factors, including hair density, haircut, and desired result. On average, professional balayage costs around £150, but prices at Rush start from £96. For an extra cost, you can add services like regrowth colour and Olaplex, which enhance your hair’s health and condition. At-home balayage kits are less pricey but won’t offer the same bespoke result.
Balayage vs. Highlights: What’s the Difference?
Traditional highlights start directly at the roots and create a bolder contrast against your base colour. Your hairdresser will separate small sections of your hair, wrap each in foil, and add dye from tip-to-ends. The foil then seals, leaving the dye to do its job!
Compared to balayage, traditional highlights give a very done and less natural finish, with more obvious grow-out after a month or two. However, if you prefer a structured highlight pattern and want to brighten your hair from the roots, traditional highlights might be just what you’re looking for.
Balayage vs. Ombré: What’s the Difference?
The word ‘ombré’ means ‘shade’ in French. An ombré is a solid look that usually features a darker shade from the roots to mid-length, then a lighter shade on the ends. The technique involves applying colour to the roots and bleaching the bottom of your hair, creating a striking contrast. While balayage is more blended and natural-looking, ombré delivers a more dramatic, two-tone effect.
To understand the difference between different hair colouring techniques, check out our guide on Highlights vs Babylights vs Balayage Lowlights: What’s the Difference?.
Full vs. Partial balayage
Full Balayage: Covers the entire head, providing a comprehensive, sun-kissed look. It’s ideal for those wanting a significant change.
Partial Balayage: Focuses on specific sections, usually the top layer or around the face. It’s a subtle, low-commitment way to try out the balayage look.
Why is Balayage so popular?
Balayage is popular because it offers a natural, low-maintenance look that grows out beautifully. It’s versatile, customizable, and works for all hair types and colours. Plus, it’s perfect for those wanting a fresh, modern look without frequent salon visits.
Is balayage good for every hair type?
Yes, balayage works on every hair type. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, thick or fine, a skilled stylist can customise the technique to suit your texture and style preferences.
Does balayage damage hair?
When done professionally, balayage is less damaging than traditional highlights because it uses less bleach and avoids the roots. However, like any chemical treatment, it’s essential to maintain proper hair care to keep your hair healthy.
Can I do balayage at home?
While at-home kits exist, achieving professional-looking balayage at home is challenging. It requires a skilled hand to get the seamless, natural blend. For the best results, we recommend visiting a professional stylist.
How to maintain balayage hair
To keep your balayage looking fresh, use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, and incorporate a deep conditioning treatment regularly. We recommend professional home-care products to keep your hair and color at its best. Our favourites are Kerastase Blond Absolu for blondes and Kerastase Chroma Absolu for other colours. Additionally, book gloss or toner appointments between full colour sessions to maintain vibrancy and shine.
Learn more about maintaining your balayage in our article How to Repair Bleach Damaged Hair.
How long does balayage last?
The average balayage lasts around three-to-four months when properly looked after. If your colour starts to fade between visits, you can visit your Rush salon for a toner to boost the vibrancy.
Do as the French say: “Regarde le bon côté des choses”, and look on the bright side, your new balayage will help you to do just that.
Book Your Hair Appointment Today!
Ready to transform your look with balayage highlights that turn heads and make you feel glamorous? Find a hairdresser near you and book your appointment today.
Let our experts help you achieve a stunning look that complements your natural beauty and style.
