It can be hard to keep up with all the latest salon trends. I’ve avoided any confusion by sticking with the same routine for more than 10 years. But when I started noticing a lot more women at the salon getting a technique called balayage (pronounced bah-lee-AHZGE), I wanted to learn more. My hair stylist, Hannah at Robert Jeffrey in Lincoln Park, has had a lot of clients switch to balayage and was kind enough to answer a few questions for me about what the process is. More information is below, just in case you’ve been thinking about switching up your hair routine, too.
What is the balayage process, and how is it different from other coloring treatments?
The balayage process is different for each client, that is what’s so unique about it. The word balayage means “hand painted highlighting,” and it’s a way to customize different types of blended highlights for each client. Balayage is very different and new to the industry in the sense that in the past, most highlights and dimensional coloring to hair had been done in foils in a very uniform way. Now with hand painting, the options are endless.
People may confuse balayage with ombre. How are they different?
Balayage is a technique while ombre is an actual look. A stylist can use balayage to achieve an ombre look (darker at the root lighter in the ends) as well as many other dimensional colored looks in the hair.
Who should get balayage?
Most people could give it a try as many different looks can be accomplished with it. Virgin (never before colored hair) is the perfect canvas for it. But as long as clients consult with their stylist about the balayage look they are interested in, most of the time it can be done.
What is the normal upkeep?
Most of the time balayage is lower maintenance than typical foiled highlighting, so instead of 6-8 weeks for a touch up, it’s more like 10-12 weeks. However, balayage can be done to the root, and in that case the upkeep might be around the same as foiled highlighting.
What should you discuss with your stylist if you’re interested in the treatment?
Always discuss any coloring that has been done to your hair in the past. It’s also always great to look up pictures of balayage styles you’re interested in and be able to have something to show and help explain exactly what you want.
If you’re in the Chicago area and are interested in learning more about balayage, or just looking for a talented hair stylist, I’d wholeheartedly recommend Hannah! I trust her and have a great time whenever I’m in her chair. Find out more about the salon on the Robert Jeffrey Lincoln Park website.
Photos via Hannah at Robert Jeffrey Lincoln Park
Brittany
I’m so interested in this! I, too, have gone with the same highlights and occasional low lights for so long.