The Difference between Balayage and Ombré

Balayage has been around for a while but this timeless technique is creeping its way back into being one of the most popular colour requests within the salon. Balayage is a technique for highlighting hair in which the dye is painted on in such a way to create a graduated, natural looking effect. The word Balayage comes from the French meaning ‘to sweep’ or ‘to paint’. It allows for a sun-kissed look, with softer less noticeable regrowth lines. This technique works on both light and dark hair and most lengths other than very short cropped hair styles.

When having Balayage in a salon, it is important to explain what you are going for as Balayage and Ombré are often mistaken for one another. As hairdressers ourselves we recommend finding pictures of what you do like and what you really do not like as it gives us a better idea of what you want to achieve. If you are unsure on what you would like we offer one to one free colour consultations and if you haven’t had colour with us before you have a colour test done prior to your appointment.

 

Ombré came on the scene a few years ago and was a huge trend amongst celebrities. Many people tend to get Ombré also mixed up with another technique called ‘Dip Dye’. Whilst dip dyeing leaves an obvious edgy line, Ombré is a much more subtle option. It’s a colouring technique that looks like a grown out colour. Ombré is also good for people who like having funkier, brighter fashion colours in their hair. Ombré is not just designed for the natural browns and blondes like in Balayage. You can incorporate red, pink, purple and even blue into an Ombré look as long as your ends are lighter than your natural colour. If you find your ends are not lighter than your root colour this can be achieved by your stylist lifting the ends with bleach.

 

With Ombré you can decide how high or low the colour blend is. Whether it is just the very ends of the hair or the majority of the hair very close to the root. This look can also be achieved with just hair extensions if you feel taking the plunge on your own hair is a step too far. If you are still unsure on what your hair needs call us on 01252331302 for more advice.