Main Content
GET 20% OFF* BREWS WITH CODE: BREWS25
Redken Blog: Ombre vs Balayage what is the difference

Balayage: Everything You Need to Know for Sun-Kissed Hair

Tired of dull, lifeless hair? Balayage is our secret weapon for gorgeous, dimensional color. This guide covers everything balayage – what it is, how it differs from highlights and ombré, how to get the look, and how to keep it fresh. Get ready to transform your hair with Redken!
09 Aug 2022

Long, wavy, brown hair with caramel balayage highlights

What is Balayage? The Hair Color Technique That's Taking Over


Balayage (meaning "to sweep" or "to paint" in French) is a freehand highlighting technique. Color is applied to the surface of the hair, creating soft, blended highlights that look totally natural, like sun-kissed hair. Unlike traditional foils, balayage offers a customized, seamless blend of colors, perfect for any hair type – short, long, fine, thick, straight, wavy, curly, or coily.





Balayage, Highlights, Ombré: What's the Difference?


They all lighten hair, but here's the breakdown:
Balayage: Creates soft, blended, natural-looking highlights with a seamless grow-out. Think sun-kissed, beachy hair.
Highlights: Uses foils to create more uniform, structured highlights. The grow-out is more noticeable.
Ombré: A gradient effect, transitioning from darker roots to lighter ends. Balayage can create an ombré, but they aren't the same thing.


Partial vs. Full Balayage: How Much Coverage Do We Want?


Partial: Targets specific sections for a subtle refresh or added dimension.
Full: Lightens a larger portion of hair for a brighter, more overall look.

Long, wavy blonde hair with balayage highlights





A hand holding a section of blonde hair

The Balayage Experience: What Happens at the Salon?


• inspiration photos, and discuss maintenance.
Application: The stylist hand-paints the lightener or color onto your hair.
Processing: Time to relax while the color lifts.
Toning: Neutralizes brassiness or adds custom tones (ash blonde, golden blonde, rose gold, etc.).
Shampoo & Conditioning: Your hair is washed and conditioned with color-safe products.
Styling: Your stylist styles your hair to showcase your new balayage.





Keeping Your Balayage Fresh: Hair Care Tips


Color-Safe Products: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners for color-treated hair, like Acidic Color Gloss and Redken Color Extend Magnetics.
Deep Conditioning: Treat your hair to a weekly deep conditioner, like Redken's Acidic Bonding Concentrate range.
Minimize Heat Styling: Protect your color (and your hair!) by limiting heat styling and using heat protectants.
Hair Gloss: Refresh your color and add shine with a gloss treatment, like Redken's Acidic Color Gloss Shine Trio.
Salon Touch-Ups: Schedule regular appointments to maintain your balayage and address root growth.

Is Balayage Right for You?



Find Your Hair Care Match




Is Balayage Right for You?


Balayage is incredibly versatile, working on all hair types, textures, and colors. Whether you're after subtle highlights or a dramatic change, balayage can deliver. Consult with a Redken stylist to find your perfect match! Find a Redken salon near you and explore Redken's best-selling products to protect and care for your balayage at home.

On the same topic

The Redken blog is your ultimate resource for all things hair, offering expert advice, inspiration, and product recommendations to help you achieve your best hair yet. From the latest trends and techniques to personalized hair care routines and styling tips, discover everything you need to know to create and maintain healthy, beautiful hair. Explore articles covering a wide range of topics, including color care, styling tutorials, product spotlights, and expert interviews, all designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools to achieve your hair goals. Whether you're a seasoned stylist or a hair enthusiast, the Redken blog is your go-to destination for staying ahead of the curve and unlocking your hair's full potential.



INSTANTLY EXPLORE NEW HAIR COLORS WITH OUR

VIRTUAL HAIR TOOL

Virtual Try On Redken Hair Color
Redken Blog: Things Hairstylist Wants You Know Before Coloring Hair


FIND A REDKEN SALON NEAR YOU


Discover your nearest Redken salon to book your appointment today!
Services for all hair types, conditions, and desired looks.

FIND A SALON









SHOP REDKEN BEST SELLERS






Redken Loves You Loyalty Rewards Program


REDKEN LOYALTY PROGRAM


Redken Loves You Rewards is Redken's free loyalty program where members can earn and redeem points on every order, unlock members-only exclusive offers, get first access to new launches & promotions and more! ​

SIGN IN TO JOIN TODAY





Orientation Message
For the best experience, please turn your device.