How much time do you put into the way you look every day? While this number is different for everyone, investing some time into your appearance can really help you to go out into the world more confidently and feel better about yourself. I started going to spas and salons a few months back, and it was really nifty to see how many services they offered that could really improve my life. I decided that it would be incredible to work with other people to teach them about spas and salons, since they can make you feel renewed and refreshed.
Lena Griffin
Balayage highlights are a great way to go a little blonder and add dimension and color to your hair, without the difficult upkeep of going fully blonde. Balayage usually includes blending the blonde highlights with your natural color and leaving some darkness at the roots. This is a more natural look that grows out gracefully. If you are interested in trying balayage highlights, just be sure to keep these three tips in mind:
Know What Balayage Highlights Are
Before deciding if balayage highlights are right for you, spend time looking at photos of balayage as well as traditional highlights. Balayage highlights are hand-painted, making them less uniform than traditional highlights which involve separating sections of your hair and then wrapping them in foil while the bleach does its magic.
Because balayage highlights are handpainted, they look more natural and lived-in. Balayage hair is often referred to as "sun-kissed" because the highlights are typically painted on right where the sun would hit your hair.
Plan to Be at the Salon for a While
Just like other types of highlights and hair color, balayage can take a while and may take even longer since the technique is so intricate. You will need to wait while your color processes, and should also expect to have a toning treatment done after your balayage highlights are complete. By the time you add in styling, you will likely be at the salon for at least a few hours.
Schedule your balayage highlights appointment for a day when your schedule is wide open. This is a great time to finish that book you've been reading or catch up on podcasts.
Commit to Proper Balayage Upkeep
While balayage grows out more naturally than other highlights, you will still need to come in for touch-up appointments a few times a year. Because bleach can be damaging to your hair and make it more fragile, you should take especially good care of it after getting balayage. High-quality shampoo and conditioner designed specifically for color-treated hair are musts.
You should also do a deep conditioning treatment when your hair feels dry, get regular trims, and go into the salon for toning treatments if your hair ever looks brassy.
If you think balayage highlights may be the look you want, it's time to schedule a consultation appointment at an experienced salon. Be sure to bring photos of your desired hair color so your stylist can create a plan for getting you there.
Call local salons to find a stylist that offers balayage service.