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Every day, new hues join the sea of popular hair colours – and the world seems to have a love-hate relationship with whichever hair colour is trending. However, there are some techniques, such as balayage, that are timeless and can help you seamlessly achieve main character energy. This hair colouring method is a popular style that is loved for its natural appearance and elegance. Balayage is quite versatile and works beautifully on most hair textures, types, and colours. Whether you have dark, luscious locks or caramel-brown hair, you cannot go wrong with balayage.
Balayage is also super easy to maintain and complements different skin tones to add a radiant glow. So, if you wish to try this hair colour style but are not sure where to begin or what it even means, we’ve got you covered. This guide gets down to the basics and shares all the details on what balayage is, and if it even suits Indian hair. We’re also exploring 12 popular hair colour shades used for the balayage style and how you can apply it at home. Keep reading!
What Is Balayage?
Balayage – pronounced as ‘bah-lay-ahge’ – is derived from the French word balayer, meaning ‘to sweep’. As the name suggests, it is a hair colouring technique that uses free-hand sweeping motions. So, what makes the balayage hair highlighting technique such a crowd-puller? It gives your hair a multi-toned finish with a play of contrast that appears natural. Think of it this way – a smooth transition from dark to light along the lengths of your hair. The natural colour of your hair appears to seamlessly fuse with the dye color to create a graduated highlighting effect in the balayage hair colour technique.
Also, for the cautious ones who’re always planning a step ahead, let us tell you that the growing-out phase of balayage hair highlights isn’t as stark as other highlights. You can, basically, go for longer without random people advising you to book an appointment with your stylist.
Does Balayage Work On Indian Hair?
Balayage can look stunning on darker Indian hair when done right. You can opt for sun-kissed highlights that are versatile and complement the rich, dark tones of Indian hair. Regardless of your hair type – straight, wavy, or curly – balayage adds dimension and depth to enhance your appearance. It also helps lighten and brighten naturally dark hair for added visual interest.
Besides, Indian hair is typically thick, and the gradient effect of balayage only adds to its luscious texture. However, the key to a stunning look is choosing the right colour. Consider factors like your skin's undertone while picking the right balayage shade. Caramel, honey-blonde, and auburn tones compliment warm undertones, while ash brown, burgundy, and chestnut brown are best suited for cool undertones.
12 Popular Balayage Hair Colours
Now that you’ve got the hang of this trend, let’s get those fingers scrolling and discover a balayage shade that will sweep you off your feet, shall we?
1. Unicorn
Well, last night you sure did swap your regular glass of rum and coke for a vibrant glass of the most potent cocktail, didn’t you? Do the same to your mane, too. The unicorn balayage is all about throwing in variations of pretty pastel colours into a mix that will make heads turn. We’re talking pink, lilac, buttercup, aqua, and pistachio. Why bother finding ways to drive away the Monday blues when you’re sporting the most mythical hue on your own head? Tress Gods say a big damn YASS!
What we love: Nisha Cosglam Pastel Creator
2. Burgundy
Sign up to be a part of the burgundy tribe and you won’t regret it. Think of this balayage colour as a deep red shade tending towards brown with purple undercurrents. The highlights jar the eyes but at the same time, frame your face with a subtle velvety finish. The beauty of this versatile shade is that spans in permutations from warmer to cooler hues and can flatter almost every complexion. Think of it like the good ol’ LBD in your closet. The safest choice to fall back on and still come out looking like a million bucks.
What we love: LOreal Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color - 3.16 Burgundy
3. Red
There’s always a fiery red hue for everyone. Olive, dusky or fair, red can do the trick on them all. Go for muted reds or vibrant reds and up your redhead game like nobody’s business. The right red shade can draw out the paleness of your complexion, enhance your eye colour and frame your face brilliantly. Honestly, we feel this colour works with you on all levels to bring out the best in you so time to finally show red the green light, if you know what we mean.
What we love: Garnier Color Naturals Creme Hair Color - 7.65 Raspberry Red
4. Blonde
Be ready to make your features pop with sandy blonde highlights. These sun-bleached highlights can effortlessly bring about a gorgeous contrast against both light and dusky skin tones. The yellow and platinum undertones add warmth to pale skin while supporting a transition from dark roots to light ends in case of a balayage on black hair. If you’re still sceptical, think of Taylor Swift’s blonde mane and you will hear ‘You Belong With Me’ ring in your ears.
What we love: L'Oreal Paris Excellence Fashion Hair Color - Shade 9.13 Golden Beige Blonde
5. Brown
This comforting brown makes a strong case for you, maybe it’s finally time to ditch your jet-black strands. It might be the most common color on the streets but that doesn’t make it any less interesting. Whether you are looking for warm subtle hues to enhance your complexion or rich undertones for a classic appearance, brown balayage on black hair is the way to go. What’s more? Brown highlights accentuate your skin tone while making your locks look really lush.
What we love: LOreal Paris Excellence Creme Hair Color - 5 Light Brown
6. Caramel
Thick dark chocolate with swirls of caramel makes for an irresistible dessert so don’t be surprised if it works for your tresses too. The beautiful interplay between teases of caramel and a rich brown base, smoothly gliding along the lengths of your hair, gives a fresh twist to the traditional plain ‘ol brown. Paint your locks with swirls of yummy caramel and trust us you won’t be able to get enough of it.
What we love: Garnier Color Naturals Creme Riche Nourishing Hair Better Color - 5.32 Caramel Brown
7. Brunette
Brunette is a pretty take on brown that adds hues of warmth to your hair while uplifting your complexion. There’s a reason why the balayage brunette is the most coveted hair shade among women. It’s because this earthly colour gives you a colour boost without being too loud. What makes it flattering, you ask? The depth of this colour enhances the pink undertones in your skin, instantly taking years off your face. Anti-ageing trick? Sign us up, please.
What we love: L'Oreal Paris Casting Creme Gloss Hair Color - 300 Darkest Brown
8. Honey Blonde
If you desire a warm, radiant glow, opt for a honey-blonde balayage. It adds an effortless sun-kissed touch to your hair and is perfect if you’re looking for a noticeable change in hair colour without being over-the-top. The soft, golden hues blend in beautifully with light and dark hair and are ideal for most skin tones.
What we love: BBLUNT Salon Secret High Shine Creme Hair Colour Honey Light Golden Brown- No Ammonia
9. Pink
Whether you aren’t over Barbiecore yet or just want to add a whimsical touch to your look, pink balayage presents the perfect opportunity to express your unique personality. From vibrant hot pink to soft pastels, there are several customisable pink shades you can pick from to complement your natural hair colour. It is also a great choice for those who want pink hair but are afraid to commit to a full head of the hue.
What we love: Streax Professional Hold & Play Funky Hair Color - Groovy Pink
10. Copper
Love autumn vibes? Add a touch of rich warmth to your hair with a copper balayage that looks uber-elegant. It looks especially stunning if you have warm skin undertones! Copper balayage also serves as the perfect contrast to dark hair, making your mane shine and reflect light naturally.
What we love: Raaga Professional Pro 10 Express Permanent Hair Colour - Light Blond Gold Copper
11. Blue
If you’re looking for blue hairstyle ideas, embrace a blue balayage for an edgy look that effortlessly makes a statement. From cobalt and navy to bubblegum, you can pick from a variety of blue hair colour shades to stand out and match your aesthetic. Another bonus point for blue balayage is that a range of stunning hues will emerge during the fade-out process.
What we love: ALFAPARF MILANO Revolution Blue
12. Ash Blonde
Perfect for most skin tones, ash blonde adds an almost smokey effect to the hair for a refined and sophisticated look. The versatile hair colour provides a chic contrast to darker hair and brightens lighter hair, too.
What we love: Streax Hair Colour Highlighting Kit - Soft Blonde
How To Do Balayage Hair Colour On Your Own
- Begin by sectioning your tresses. Pull the top of your hair and clip it on your head with a hair-sectioning clip.
- Take your balayage colour kit and first wear the hand gloves to keep it less messy and more hygienic.
- Prepare your hair dye in a bowl and mix it with the dyeing brush.
- Now dip the dyeing brush in the bowl and start coating it along the bristles of your hair brush.
- This is the deciding part. Sweep your hair brush along the mid-lengths and towards the ends. To avoid a dip-dye look, make sure you begin coating from varying points along the lengths.
- Keep doing this till you have covered all sections. Ensure the strokes are sparser on the up and denser way down.
- Now, depending on the colour intensity you are seeking and your natural hair colour, leave it on for 30 minutes.
- Wash your hair with a moisture-rich shampoo and conditioner. Let it air dry.
Key Takeaway
Balayage is a popular hair colouring technique that offers a natural appearance and an elegant look. It is versatile and works well on most hair textures, types, and colours. It complements different skin tones, making it the perfect choice to add a radiant glow to your appearance. Balayage creates a multi-toned finish with a seamless contrast, creating a smooth yet playful transition from dark to light hues. You can also pick from a variety of hair colour shades for the balayage technique for a stunning look.
FAQs On Balayage
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What exactly is balayage hair?
Balayage is a hair colouring technique that involves the free-hand application of highlights on the hair to create a soft and natural gradient.
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What is the difference between balayage hair and highlights?
Balayage highlights are applied with a sweeping motion to the hair, as opposed to foil highlights that are strategically placed. Due to the free-hand application, balayage has a softer, more natural appearance as compared to traditional highlights. Regrowth lines are also less visible with balayage, and it requires a lower level of maintenance.
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Is balayage good for Indian hair?
There are several types of balayage; a soft caramel or coffee colour would look stunning on Indian hair.
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How long does balayage last?
Balayage blends seamlessly and regrowth lines are less visible, provided you use colour-safe hair products and maintain basic hair health. Balayage can last up to 3-4 months. How long the balayage hair colour lasts also depends on the colour of your roots and the speed of hair growth.
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Is balayage high maintenance?
Balayage provides a natural gradient and is less visible as the hair grows, making it quite easy to maintain as compared to foil highlights.
