Hey sisters. Any gal who’s gone on the balayage highlight hunt knows the struggle. You want subtle, natural-looking color melting – not stripy frosted tips or brassy orange hues. But finding a balayage hairdresser like Becky B who actually understands how to balayage like a pro? Easier said than done, aren’t we right?
After many meh balayage jobs that left us less than dazzled, we feel your pain. But now, after years of trial-and-error, countless foils, and one too many bad brassy blondes, we are spillin’ the tea on how to spot the balayage besties, and avoid balayage botch jobs. Read on for tips to find your dream stylist and get the sun-kissed money piece of your dreams.
They Show You Balayage Before and Afters
Any colorist worth their salt should have a portfolio bursting with balayage transformations. Ask to see their previous work so you can assess if their technique is subtle and seamless.
Avoid stylists with photos that look striped or have obvious regrowth lines. Quality balayage should melt softly from root to ends for that natural glow-up.
They Don’t Push Trends Over What You Want
Some salons try pushing clients towards whatever color is trendy right now. But your balayage should enhance your own gorgeousness, not chase temporary fads.
Insist on a custom color design tailored to your hair texture, complexion and lifestyle. Your stylist should listen more than talk. If you leave looking more Kardashian than you, find a new artist who cares about accentuating your unique beauty.
They Use Dimensional Color and Painting Methods
True balayage relies on painstaking hand-painting and feathering to make color look dimensional. Stylists should meticulously paint highlights in ultra-fine sections, not just slap on chunky foils.
Ask if they use advanced techniques like babylights or micro-balayage to get that subtle sun-kissed effect. If they just want to foil, keep searching.
They Avoid Overlifting and Brassiness
In the quest for brightness, some stylists overzealously lighten every strand to platinum. But overlifting leads to damage and brassiness, especially for brunettes.
Your colorist should know how to delicately lift only select pieces to a level that avoids brass tones. Examine their photos for models with grungy yellow or orange hues – any sign of brass is a red flag.
They Customize Maintenance Plans
Between washes, styling, and UV exposure, balayage needs special care to stay fresh.
Look for stylists who provide personalized at-home toning, conditioning, and styling advice. They should also schedule maintenance visits every 4-8 weeks to refresh your highlights. Consider maintenance costs when pricing services.
They Have Extensive Balayage Training
Throwing on foils is one thing, but balayage is an advanced technique that requires specialized skill and knowledge.
Verify your stylist has extensive balayage-specific training – not just a basic coloring course. They should be constantly refining their skills through workshops, conferences, and courses. Talented balayagers nerd out over color theory.
Conclusion
When you find a stylist who listens intently, paints every highlight strand by strand, and keeps your hair’s integrity top priority – hold on tight. A great balayage artist will have your locks looking like a sun-drenched goddess in no time. Never settle for brassy or stripey again – you and your hair deserve the very best.