Most people have no idea what the word “Balayage” means or even how to say it. For years we did highlights the same way. We targeted the root area to be bright and have a large pop of color near our root area.

Trends started to point us in a different direction and the method of Balayage was born.

“Balayage” means that color is swept through the hair in a fluid and natural method to grow out without harsh lines.

The picture above shows a visual difference between traditional highlights and balayage highlights. Both color techniques are still trendy and used in the salon today. How I choose which method for a client is based off their hair maintenance schedule and where they’re wanting to see a lighter and brighter POP of color.

Personally, I’ve loved wearing Balayage highlights for the past few years for many reasons:

– My thick hair has dimension by having lighter pieces throughout my length.

– I can wait 2-3 months before maintenance is due because the growout is so soft.

– It mimics what my hair would do if it lightened naturally.

Anyone can apply hair color, where the point of difference comes from as a stylist is knowing how to place color on a head of hair that looks like it’s always been that way. As kids we spent hours playing outside and our hair lightened in a similar way. I’m sure you spend just as many hours inside the home or an office that has left your hair feeling ashy and just blah.

Being that there is little maintenance with a Balayage, it is a perfect fit for those who are timid to add hair color to their beauty routine.

Since you’ve made it to the end of this post, you now know what Balayage means. It’s not just a fancy French word, but instead a subtle kiss of color that looks gorgeous for months.

Jacqueline Weesner is a hairstylist licensed on the Western Slopes of Montrose, CO. Her salon offers natural hair color services for women using PPD-free & non-ammonia hair color. Learn more about Balayage hair color and begin your online consultation here.