Balayage Dark Hair Tips – How to Do It Right

The term Balayage has become one of the most important hair styling buzzwords this season, and for many obvious reasons. It consists of a freehand technique that is used to paint color onto the hair in such a way that it creates a natural and gradual end result. Many well-known stars and celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, and Sarah Jessica Parker have all been seen sporting various forms of balayage dark hair styles recently.

A Celeb Hair Colorist Tells All

George Papanikolas, a celebrity hair colorist who has worked with Khloe Kardashian, told Hollywoodlife.com how he is able to give the best possible results when it comes to balayaging dark hair. “The real artistry comes with her highlights. I do balayage, a French highlighting technique where the highlights are painted directly on to the hair. I start with fine delicate highlights at the root, gradually getting thicker, chunkier and heavier towards the ends. Because I can control exactly where the highlights are placed, and depending on the amount of lightener used on each hair strand, you get a variation of different colors, tones and intensity,” he said.

Strictly a Salon Process

The balayage technique should only be performed by an experienced and professional salon stylist, as he or she will know how to prevent excessive overlapping of color that can result in the hair becoming dry, damaged and very brittle. As a result, attempting to perform this coloring technique at home is strongly discouraged. It is also necessary to determine whether additional heat from a foil treatment may be needed to help lighten darker hair to the desired color or shade, as too much heat on the hair may result in the hair becoming over processed and unmanageable.

Minimal Upkeep and Maintenance

In most cases, people who have balayage performed will only need to have it touched up or refreshed every 2 to 4 months. It is essential during that time to keep the hair healthy and hydrated because the effect may be lost if the hair becomes dry or brittle. It is also essential to use salon quality shampoo, conditioner and styling products to ensure that the results last as long as possible. Salon hair stylists will also recommend that the hair not be washed for a minimum of 48 hours after a balayage treatment has been performed, as this will allow the hair cuticles to close – dry shampoo can be used if needed.

Unlike many other coloring trends that have come and gone over the years, balayage is one that has arrived and that looks set to stay with the hair styling industry indefinitely. Anyone who would like to have this technique performed on their hair should not hesitate to schedule a consultation appointment with one of our professional and experienced stylists today. They will ensure that the best possible end results are obtained.