If you’re looking for a hair colour that brightens your hair, enhances your features, and is customized to your unique style, balayage might be the answer. The best part? This elevated style is ultra-low-maintenance.
Balayage, pronounced bah-lay-ahge, is by far the most highly requested service in our Calgary hair salon.
Highlighting has been around for decades and balayage is in fact one of the oldest techniques for highlighting hair. Over the past few years, balayage has made a comeback in the industry, and it’s here to stay.
The word "balayage” is a French term that literally means "to sweep". It is a free-hand painting technique done in a sweeping motion. The key to perfect application is a light-handed touch and a gentle sweep.
The technique creates a highlighted effect that is perfectly seamless and natural. Not to be confused with ombre, which is a transition from dark to light on the whole head, balayage is more subtle. Balayage is applied using a lightener.
The application can start anywhere between the new growth and the mid-lengths leading into a heavier saturation towards the ends.
If you want a sun-kissed look that accentuates your features and haircut without worrying about your roots showing, balayage might be perfect for you.
Balayage can be used in a wide variety of looks. Depending on your needs, your stylist has several options when using the technique. The intensity of contrast, depth, dimension and tone are considerations to be discussed with your stylist during the consultation. If desired, balayage can also be used to create subtle accent pieces that are perfect for breaking up solid colours.
You might have come across a beautiful look on Pinterest or in a magazine, and we always encourage you to take inspiration from what you love when deciding on a look. Additionally, providing your stylist with some visuals is always a great option in order for you to clearly communicate what you like or dislike about a certain look.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all clients have the same starting point (hair colour). The best result for you compliments your hair texture, colour, and condition. Because of this, it is important to enlist an expert stylist, as well as to discuss what you can expect as realistic results. This includes discussing all of your hair colouring history, and any other factors that will affect the process of creating the desired look.
When it comes to a single balayage appointment, darker-haired clients can expect a warmer, caramel-toned finish while natural blondes can expect a bright platinum result.
However, dark-haired clients can still get a bold, blonde look if they so choose. They will simply have to return for additional balayage applications.
A full session of balayage at our Calgary hair salon can take anywhere from 2 ½ to 4 hours depending on the length and density of the hair. Partial applications will take less time. Your stylist can discuss all of these options with you to ensure that the appointment fits your needs.
