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Balayage in Boise: How Long It Lasts, Who It’s For, and What to Expect

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Thinking about balayage in Boise? Balayage is a customized hair coloring technique that creates soft, natural-looking dimension with less noticeable grow-out than traditional highlights. Most balayage appointments last two to four hours, and the color typically stays looking fresh for three to six months with proper care. At unDONE Salon, every balayage service begins with a consultation to create a color plan that’s personalized to your hair, your lifestyle, and the look you want to achieve. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Balayage creates soft, natural-looking dimension that grows out beautifully, making it a favorite for lower-maintenance hair color.
  • Most people enjoy their balayage for three to six months before coming in for a full refresh.
  • Whether you’re blonde, brunette, or a natural redhead, balayage can be customized to complement your hair.
  • Your hair’s current condition, color history, and goals all help determine what’s possible during your appointment.
  • Boise’s dry climate and hard water can affect how your color looks over time, so proper care makes a difference.
  • Every balayage appointment at unDONE begins with a personalized consultation to create a color plan that’s right for you.
  • With the right products and home care routine, you can keep your balayage looking fresh and vibrant between visits.

There’s a reason balayage continues to be one of the most requested hair color services in Boise. It offers beautiful dimension without the harsh grow-out that many people associate with traditional highlights. Whether you’re looking for subtle brightness around your face or a more dramatic transformation, balayage can be customized to fit your hair and your lifestyle.

If you’re considering balayage for the first time, you’re probably wondering how long it lasts, how much maintenance it requires, and whether it’s the right choice for your hair. These are exactly the kinds of questions we answer during consultations at unDONE Salon, and they’re worth understanding before your appointment.

What Makes Balayage Different?

Balayage isn’t a specific color. It’s a coloring technique.

Instead of applying lightener in perfectly uniform sections from the roots down, your stylist hand-paints color where it will create the most natural movement and dimension. The finished result is softer, less defined, and often looks more like naturally sun-lightened hair than traditional highlights.

Because the placement is customized for every guest, no two balayage appointments look exactly alike. Some people want bright blonde pieces that frame the face. Others want a subtle change that simply gives their hair more depth and movement.

If you’re still deciding between balayage and traditional highlights, your stylist can explain the differences and recommend the approach that best fits your goals.

Is Balayage Right for Your Hair?

One of the biggest misconceptions about balayage is that it’s only meant for blondes.

In reality, balayage can work beautifully on many different hair colors. Brunettes often choose it to add warm caramel or honey tones without committing to full highlights. Natural blondes use it to create brighter dimension. Even many redheads can enjoy balayage when it’s customized to complement their natural color.

It’s also a great choice if you prefer lower maintenance. Since the color blends gradually into your natural root, there’s usually no obvious line as your hair grows.

That doesn’t automatically make balayage the best option for everyone.

If your main goal is complete gray coverage, extremely bright blonde from roots to ends, or correcting previous color issues, another hair color service may give you better results. That’s why every appointment starts with a conversation before any color is mixed.

How Long Does Balayage Last?

Most balayage clients enjoy their color for three to six months before scheduling another full balayage appointment.

What changes during that time isn’t necessarily the color itself. It’s the tone.

As your hair is exposed to sunlight, heat styling, shampooing, and everyday life, blonde pieces can gradually become warmer. Many guests choose to come in for a toner or gloss every couple of months to keep everything looking fresh while waiting longer between full lightening appointments.

Several factors affect how long your balayage stays looking its best, including your natural hair color, your daily routine, and how often you wash your hair.

Here in Boise, mineral buildup can also play a role. Hard water is common throughout the Treasure Valley and can affect both the shine and tone of color-treated hair if it isn’t managed properly.

Will Balayage Damage My Hair?

Any service that lightens hair changes its structure to some degree.

The difference comes down to how the service is performed and whether your hair is healthy enough to achieve the result you’re hoping for.

Before every balayage appointment, we evaluate your hair’s condition, talk about previous color services, and discuss your expectations. Sometimes your goal can be achieved in one visit. Other times, especially if you’re working toward a dramatic blonde transformation, it’s healthier to spread the process over multiple appointments.

Healthy hair almost always creates more beautiful long-term color than trying to push it too far in a single session.

What Happens During the Appointment?

Every balayage appointment begins with a consultation.

We’ll ask about your hair history, your styling routine, and what you’re hoping to achieve. Photos can be helpful, but they aren’t required. Often it’s more useful to talk about how you want your hair to feel and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with than trying to duplicate someone else’s exact color.

From there, your stylist hand-paints the lightener to create customized dimension throughout your hair. Depending on your hair’s length, thickness, and desired result, appointments typically last between two and four hours.

If you’ve had multiple color services in the past or previously used box dye, we may recommend a strand test before moving forward. It’s a simple way to see how your hair responds before committing to a full application.

Preparing for Your Appointment

You don’t need to do anything complicated before coming in.

Hair that’s clean or one day since washing works perfectly well. Bringing a few inspiration photos is always helpful, but don’t worry about finding someone with your exact hair type. Your stylist will adapt those ideas to fit your hair instead of trying to copy someone else’s.

If this is your first hair color appointment, don’t be afraid to ask questions. We’d much rather spend extra time making sure you’re comfortable than have you leave wondering what to expect.

Keeping Your Balayage Looking Beautiful

The appointment is only part of the process.

The products you use at home, how often you shampoo, and even the water coming out of your shower all influence how your color ages between visits.

That’s one reason we exclusively use Davines products. We want your hair to feel just as healthy six weeks from now as it does when you leave the salon.

We’ll also recommend a maintenance schedule that’s built around your hair rather than a generic timeline. Some guests love coming in every eight weeks for a gloss, while others prefer a lower-maintenance routine with fewer appointments throughout the year.

Ready to Try Balayage in Boise?

If you’ve been thinking about balayage, we’d love to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your hair.

At unDONE Salon, every appointment begins with a consultation so we can understand your goals, evaluate your hair, and create a color plan that’s completely personalized to you.

Whether you’re looking for soft, natural dimension or a brighter transformation, we’ll help you choose the approach that makes the most sense for your hair and your lifestyle.

Explore our hair color services in Boise, browse all of our salon services, or schedule your appointment online whenever you’re ready.

You can also give us a call at (208) 287-2010 or stop by 738 N. Benjamin Lane, Boise, ID 83704. Walk-ins are always welcome when availability allows.

Frequently Asked Questions About Balayage in Boise

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions we receive about balayage at unDONE Salon.

How much does balayage cost in Boise?

Every balayage appointment is customized, so pricing depends on your hair length, density, previous color, and desired result. During your consultation, we’ll provide a clear estimate before your service begins.

How often should I get balayage?

Most guests schedule a full balayage every three to six months. Many choose to refresh the tone with a gloss or toner between appointments.

Can balayage be done on dark hair?

Yes. Balayage works beautifully on brunettes and darker hair colors, although achieving very light blonde results may require multiple appointments.

Can balayage cover gray hair?

Balayage isn’t intended to completely cover gray hair. If gray coverage is your main goal, your stylist may recommend combining balayage with another color service.

How long does a balayage appointment take?

Most appointments take between two and four hours depending on your hair length, thickness, and the amount of lightening needed.

Can I get balayage if I’ve colored my hair before?

Usually, yes. Previous color doesn’t automatically prevent balayage, but it can affect what’s possible during a single visit. That’s why your consultation is so important.

Why choose unDONE Salon for balayage in Boise?

Every balayage service at unDONE is customized for the individual sitting in the chair. We take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your hair honestly, and create color that not only looks beautiful when you leave the salon but continues to grow out naturally between appointments.

Stylist mixing professional hair color formula for custom hair color in Boise

The Real Difference Between Highlights and Balayage

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Choosing between highlights and balayage depends on the look you want, how often you’re willing to maintain your color, and how natural or dramatic you want the final result to feel. Highlights create brighter, more uniform dimension from root to end, while balayage uses hand-painted color for a softer, lived-in effect with less noticeable grow-out. At a professional hair salon in Boise, the best choice comes down to your hair type, lifestyle, and long-term color goals.

Key Takeaways

  • Highlights create a brighter, more structured look with more consistent lightness from root to end
  • Balayage offers softer, hand-painted dimension with a more natural grow-out
  • Highlights usually require more frequent maintenance than balayage
  • Your hair type, lifestyle, and styling habits all affect which technique works best
  • A personalized consultation makes the biggest difference in achieving the right result

When clients walk into our Boise hair salon asking for more dimension, one of the first questions we ask is whether they’re looking for highlights or balayage. A lot of people use the terms interchangeably, but they actually create very different results.

Both techniques can add brightness, dimension, and movement to your hair, but the process, maintenance, and overall look aren’t the same. At unDONE, helping clients understand those differences is a huge part of creating color they’ll genuinely love long after they leave the salon.

If you’ve been trying to decide between the two, here’s what you should know before booking your next appointment for hair color in Boise.

What Traditional Highlights Actually Do

Dimensional blonde hair color with soft highlights at a Boise hair salon

Highlights have been around for decades, and for good reason. They create brightness throughout the hair using foils to separate and lighten specific sections. This technique gives the stylist a lot of control over placement and lift, making it ideal for clients who want a more polished and noticeable result.

Highlights tend to create a brighter overall appearance because the lightened pieces usually start closer to the root. Depending on how many foils are used, the effect can range from soft and dimensional to bold and dramatic.

At our hair salon in Boise, highlights are often a great fit for clients who like a cleaner, brighter blonde or want consistent lightness throughout their hair. They also work well for gray blending because they can break up harsh contrast near the scalp.

How Balayage Is Different

Soft balayage hair color with blended dimension and waves at a Boise hair salon

Balayage creates a softer, more natural effect because the color is painted onto the hair by hand instead of being tightly wrapped in foils from root to end. The placement is more diffused, which means the grow-out looks less obvious over time.

This is one of the biggest reasons balayage became so popular in the first place. Clients loved that it gave them brightness without creating a harsh root line a few weeks later. Instead of looking freshly highlighted, balayage tends to mimic the way hair naturally lightens in the sun.

At unDONE, balayage is one of our most requested services for hair color in Boise because it gives clients flexibility. It can look soft and subtle or bold and dimensional depending on how it’s customized.

The Maintenance Difference Matters

One of the biggest deciding factors between highlights and balayage usually comes down to maintenance.

Traditional highlights typically need more regular upkeep because the brightness starts closer to the scalp. As your hair grows, the regrowth line becomes more noticeable. Most clients with highlights schedule touch-ups every six to eight weeks to keep everything looking fresh and blended.

Balayage usually allows more time between appointments because the grow-out is softer and less structured. Many clients can comfortably go several months before needing a refresh. That doesn’t mean balayage is maintenance-free, though. Glossing appointments and toners still play an important role in keeping the color bright and balanced between larger services.

At our Boise hair salon, we always talk through maintenance before deciding on a hair color plan. Sometimes clients love the look of bright highlights but realize they don’t want the upkeep. Other times, someone chooses balayage because it fits better with their schedule and lifestyle.

The Final Result Looks Different Too

Even when the shade itself is similar, highlights and balayage create a completely different visual effect.

Highlights usually look more structured and evenly distributed. They brighten the hair from top to bottom and create a more polished finish. If someone wants to feel very blonde or likes a cleaner, brighter appearance, highlights are often the better fit.

Balayage creates more contrast and movement because the lightness is concentrated through the mid-lengths and ends instead of evenly throughout the entire head. The result feels softer and more lived-in.

This is why consultations matter so much. Two people can bring in the exact same inspiration photo and still need different techniques based on their natural hair color, density, texture, and maintenance preferences.

Hair Texture Changes the Outcome

One thing many clients don’t realize is how much hair texture affects both techniques. Fine hair reflects light differently than coarse hair. Curly hair creates movement and shadows that change how dimension appears.

At our Boise hair salon, we customize every placement based on how your hair naturally moves and falls. Balayage on curly hair may require a completely different approach than balayage on straight hair. The same goes for highlights.

This is part of why DIY attempts or rushed appointments often miss the mark. Hair color isn’t just about applying lightener. It’s about understanding how that color will actually live on your hair every day.

Why Customization Is Everything

There’s no universal answer to whether highlights or balayage are “better.” The right choice depends entirely on your goals.

Some clients want dramatic brightness around the face. Others want low-maintenance softness. Some want maximum blonde, while others only want subtle dimension that catches the light naturally.

At unDONE, we take time to personalize every color appointment because no two heads of hair are exactly alike. We look at your current color, previous history, texture, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences before deciding on the best plan. That’s part of what makes professional hair color feel different from a quick trend-driven appointment somewhere else.

If you’re still unsure which option makes the most sense for you, our team can help guide you through it during your consultation.

It’s About More Than Trends

Hair trends change constantly, but healthy, well-executed color never goes out of style. Whether you choose highlights or balayage, the goal should always be color that works with your hair instead of against it.

At unDONE, we focus on creating color that feels wearable, flattering, and realistic for your day-to-day life. That’s why we spend so much time talking through expectations before we ever mix color. We want you to leave with a look that feels like you, not something that only works in a photo or under salon lighting.

If you’re looking for a hair salon in Boise that takes a thoughtful, personalized approach to blonding and dimension, we’d love to help. You can schedule a consultation online or give us a call at (208) 287-2010 to talk through your hair goals with our team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Trying to decide between highlights and balayage can feel confusing, especially with so much conflicting information online. These are some of the most common questions we hear from clients looking for hair color in Boise.

Are balayage and highlights the same thing?

No. Highlights use foils for more structured brightness, while balayage is hand-painted for a softer, more blended look.

Which lasts longer, balayage or highlights?

Balayage usually grows out more softly, allowing clients to go longer between appointments compared to traditional highlights.

Is balayage healthier for your hair?

Not necessarily. Both techniques can be healthy when done correctly. The condition of your hair depends more on the application process and aftercare than the technique itself.

Do highlights make you look blonder than balayage?

Usually, yes. Highlights tend to create more overall brightness from root to end.

Which is more expensive, balayage or highlights?

Balayage often costs more upfront because it’s highly customized and takes longer to apply, but some clients spend less long term because maintenance appointments are spaced farther apart.

Can you combine highlights and balayage?

Absolutely. Many modern color services blend both techniques together to create brightness with softer dimension.

What’s best for low-maintenance color?

Balayage is usually the better option for clients who want softer grow-out and fewer touch-up appointments.

Balayage hair styled in soft waves, paired with layered silver necklaces and a white blouse for a natural, effortless look.

Why Balayage Is Still Boise’s Favorite Hair Color Trend (and How We Customize It for You)

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Balayage has been one of the most requested color services in salons across the country for years, and here in Boise, it continues to be a favorite. At first glance, you might think it’s just because the look is beautiful, but there’s more to it than that. Balayage offers flexibility, low maintenance, and a natural finish that works for all ages and hair types. At unDONE, we’ve seen how much clients love it, and we know why this trend hasn’t slowed down at our Boise hair salon.

Why Balayage Works So Well

The word “balayage” comes from a French term meaning “to sweep,” which perfectly describes the technique. Instead of applying color with foils or caps, balayage is painted onto the hair in soft, sweeping motions. This allows for a more natural-looking blend of tones and dimension that mimics the way the sun would lighten your hair.

Because the placement is so customized, no two balayage services look the same. The color grows out softly without a hard line at the roots, which means fewer trips back to the salon. That makes it perfect for busy schedules and anyone who wants beautiful hair without constant upkeep.

At our hair salon in Boise, clients love how it brightens their features while still looking effortless. It enhances the natural flow of your hair instead of working against it, which is why it continues to be such a go-to choice.

Balayage vs. Traditional Highlights

Many clients ask us how balayage is different from highlights, since both lighten the hair. Highlights are applied with foils and usually create a more uniform, noticeable pattern. Balayage, on the other hand, is designed to look softer and more organic. It doesn’t create the same striping effect that foils sometimes do, and it grows out more gracefully.

This difference is one reason balayage has remained so popular. The style feels modern and lived-in, but it can still be adapted for clients who want something bold. Whether you prefer a subtle sun-kissed look or high-contrast color, balayage can be customized to match.

Why Boise Clients Love It

Living in Boise means dealing with dry air, changing seasons, and the effects of hard water, all of which can impact hair color. Balayage works especially well here because it’s forgiving and low maintenance. Even as your color softens between appointments, it doesn’t look neglected. Instead, it blends naturally with your base color, making it easier to extend the time between visits without sacrificing style.

Our clients also appreciate that balayage complements a wide range of lifestyles. It looks polished enough for professional settings but casual enough for everyday wear. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a busy parent, balayage fits right in with your routine.

How We Personalize Balayage at unDONE

One of the reasons balayage has lasted as a trend is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all technique. At unDONE, every balayage appointment starts with a consultation to make sure we understand your goals and your lifestyle.

We’ll talk through your hair history, how much time you want to spend styling, and what tones work best for your complexion. Some clients want soft, barely-there brightness around the face, while others want high-contrast dimension with darker roots and light ends. We adjust the placement, saturation, and tone to create a result that looks like it was made just for you.

This customization is also what helps keep your hair healthy. By strategically placing color only where it’s needed, we minimize processing and maintain the integrity of your strands.

Maintenance Made Simple

One of the biggest advantages of balayage is how easy it is to maintain. Unlike traditional color that requires frequent touch-ups, balayage grows out softly. Most clients can go months between full appointments, booking only glosses or toners in between to keep the color looking fresh.

Glossing services are a great way to refresh the tone, add shine, and keep your hair feeling healthy. At unDONE, we often recommend this between balayage appointments to extend the life of your color and maintain that effortless glow.

Of course, at-home care is important too. We’ll walk you through product recommendations that keep your balayage bright and prevent fading, especially with Boise’s hard water and dry climate.

Balayage Beyond Blonde

While blonde balayage is the most recognized version of the look, it’s not the only option. Balayage works beautifully on brunettes and redheads too. Adding caramel, chestnut, or copper tones can bring warmth and depth to darker hair. For clients who love fashion colors, balayage is also a great way to blend in pastels or bold hues for a softer, more dimensional finish.

This versatility is part of what keeps balayage at the top of client requests. It’s not limited to one hair type, tone, or style. It’s adaptable, personal, and timeless.

Why Balayage Isn’t Going Anywhere

Trends come and go, but balayage has proven that it’s here to stay. The reason is simple: it makes people feel confident without requiring high-maintenance upkeep. Our client’s in Boise love it because it works with their lifestyle while still delivering a polished, beautiful result.

At unDONE, we see balayage as more than just a trend. It’s a technique that allows us to customize your color in a way that looks natural, modern, and completely your own.

Ready to Try Balayage?

If you’ve been curious about balayage or want to refresh your current look, we’re here to help. Every appointment starts with a consultation so we can understand your goals and create a color plan that feels right for you.

Whether you want subtle dimension, a bold transformation, or something in between, balayage is a perfect option. Book your appointment online or give us a call at (208) 287-2010 to experience why balayage continues to be Boise’s favorite hair color trend.

Boise Hair Salon

A Boise Hair Salon Guide to Balayage vs. Highlights

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At unDONE Salon, we often get asked about the difference between balayage and highlights and which technique might be the best for our clients. Both methods offer a beautiful way to lighten and add dimension to your hair, but they achieve this in slightly different ways. That’s why we’d like to provide you with the following guide to help you understand these differences so you can decide which option will work best for you.

What is Balayage?

Balayage is a French word meaning “to sweep” or “to paint.” It’s a freehand technique in which the color is applied by hand rather than using the traditional foiling or cap highlighting techniques. Balayage provides a more natural, sun-kissed look with softer, less noticeable regrowth lines. The principal idea behind balayage is to create depth and dimension in the hair.

Pros of Balayage

Natural-Looking Results: Balayage offers a more subtle transition between your natural hair color at the root and the lighter ends.

Low Maintenance: Because the technique offers a more natural grow-out, you won’t have to visit your Boise hair salon as frequently for touch-ups.

Customizable: Balayage can be tailored to suit any hair color or length.

Cons of Balayage

Potentially Higher Cost: Due to the skill and time required, balayage can be more expensive than traditional highlights.

Subtler Lightening: If you’re looking for a dramatic change, balayage might be too subtle for your taste.

What are Highlights?

Highlights involve selecting small or thin strands of hair and lightening them to stand out against the rest of your hair. Typically, foils are used to separate the strands being lightened from the rest of the hair. Highlights can vary in size and intensity but are generally uniform in color from root to tip. This technique can significantly lighten your overall hair color and add vibrancy and dimension.

Pros of Highlights

Dramatic Results: Highlights can significantly change your hair color, making them ideal for those looking for a more noticeable transformation.

Versatility: You can choose from partial highlights (focusing on specific areas, like framing the face) or full highlights (for all-over lightening).

Uniform Color: Highlights provide a consistent color from root to tip.

Cons of Highlights

Maintenance: As your hair grows, the demarcation line becomes more noticeable, requiring more frequent salon visits.

Potential Damage: The process can be more damaging to your hair, especially if you’re going significantly lighter than your natural color.

Which Technique is Right for You?

Choosing between balayage and highlights comes down to your personal style, maintenance preference, and the current condition of your hair. Here are some considerations to help you decide:

Desired Outcome: If you prefer a dramatic and uniform color change, highlights might be your go-to. For a more natural, sun-kissed look, balayage is the way to go.

Maintenance Level: Consider how often you’re willing to visit your Boise hair salon for touch-ups. Balayage generally requires less maintenance than highlights.

Hair Health: If your hair is already damaged, you might want to opt for balayage, as it’s generally considered less damaging than the foil method used for highlights.

Consultation is Key

The best way to decide is to consult with a Boise hair salon stylist. At unDONE, our hair color experts can assess your hair’s condition, discuss your desired outcome, and recommend the best option for you. We’ll take the time to understand your vision to ensure you walk out of our Boise hair salon feeling fabulous and satisfied with your choice.

unDONE – A Trusted Boise Hair Salon

Balayage and highlights are both excellent ways to add depth, dimension, and interest to your hair. The right choice depends on the look you’re aiming for, how often you can commit to salon visits for maintenance, and the health of your hair. Whether you choose the natural, sun-kissed effect of balayage or the dramatic transformation offered by highlights, both techniques can give your hair a beautiful boost. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (208) 287-2010 today.

Boise Hair Salon

A Boise Hair Salon Guide to Ombré and Balayage Hair Color

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Ombré and balayage are two popular hair coloring techniques that create beautiful, natural-looking results. Both methods involve painting highlights onto the hair, but there is a very notable difference between them. That’s why the Boise hair salon stylists at unDONE would like to discuss what exactly sets ombré and balayage apart from each other so you can make an informed decision about which method is best for you.

What is Ombré?

Ombré is a hair coloring technique that typically involves graduating shades of color from darker to lighter. It’s usually done in two steps: the “base” color, which is usually a darker shade and applied closer to the roots, then gradually fading into a lighter shade towards the ends.

Ombré can be used for an array of looks, such as subtle highlights or dramatic, vibrant colors; it all depends on your preferences. Ombré hair will generally last 2-3 months with proper care and maintenance.

What is Balayage?

Balayage is another popular hair coloring technique that creates more natural-looking highlights than ombré. The process involves hand-painting sections of the hair with a highlighting product, starting at the roots and gradually fading out towards the ends.

Unlike ombré, balayage highlights can be placed in any area of the hair you wish to lighten up without having to worry about creating an even blend of color. The result is sun-kissed, natural-looking highlights which tend to last longer than ombré due to their placement.

How Are Both Methods Similar?

Although ombré and balayage are two different techniques, they do share some similarities. Both methods require skill to be executed correctly and provide a natural-looking result. They also share the same products – namely highlighting cream or powder – which is applied to the hair in order to achieve the desired look. Moreover, both methods will require regular touch-ups for maintenance as your hair grows out.

Ultimately, it comes down to preference when choosing between ombré and balayage; if you’re looking for a more subtle effect with less upkeep, ombré may be better suited for you, whereas if you’d like something more dramatic yet still natural-looking, then balayage is the way to go.

How Are Both Methods Different?

The biggest difference between the two methods is that ombré involves a more uniform application of color, whereas balayage features more free-form, hand-painted highlights. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, ombré typically lasts 2-3 months, while balayage can last up to 6 months before needing a touch-up.

Ultimately, it’s important to consider all these factors when deciding which method is best for you. Whichever option you decide to go with, be sure to find an experienced colorist who will be able to give you the look you desire.

When Shouldn’t You Choose Ombré?

Ombré is usually not recommended for those with very dark hair as the contrast may be too stark. Additionally, if you have thin or fine hair, ombré might not be ideal since it can make your locks appear weighed down and dull. Finally, if you’re looking for a more natural-looking color transition, then balayage should be your go-to choice.

When Shouldn’t You Choose Balayage?

Balayage is not suitable for those with very short hair, as the highlights may be too obvious. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more uniform look, then ombré might be better suited for you. Finally, if your hair is already light, balayage may not make much of a difference in terms of coloring; instead, it may just create reflections and add dimension to your existing color.

Don’t Try Either Method Alone

No matter what technique you’re considering, it is important to remember that both ombré and balayage require skill and expertise. It is best to leave the job to the Boise hair salon stylists at unDONE, who will be able to provide you with the look you desire without causing any additional damage to your hair.

Schedule an Appointment with unDONE Salon

At unDONE, our experienced team of Boise hair salon stylists is dedicated to providing you with the look you desire. With a variety of hair coloring techniques available, we can help you achieve the perfect ombré or balayage highlights for your locks.

We strive to use only the best products and tools when it comes to styling and coloring in order to ensure that your hair stays healthy and vibrant. Schedule an appointment online or call (208) 287-2010. We look forward to helping you find the perfect hue for your mane.

Boise hair salon

Balayage Vs Highlights: What’s the Difference?

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If you’re looking to change up your hair color, you may be wondering what the difference is between balayage and highlights. Both techniques are used to lighten hair, but they achieve different results. That’s why the Boise hair salon stylists at unDONE would like to discuss the differences between balayage and highlights, as well as the pros and cons of each technique. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right color and technique for your hair type.

What is Balayage?

Balayage is a French word that means “to sweep.” This technique was developed in the 1970s and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Balayage is a freehand hair coloring technique in which the colorist paints highlights on the hair without using foil or meche.

This technique can be used to create both natural-looking and dramatic results, depending on the placement of the highlights and the type of color used. Balayage is a great option for those who want low-maintenance hair color because it grows out seamlessly and doesn’t require frequent touch-ups.

What are Highlights?

Highlights are a hair coloring technique in which sections of the hair are lightened with foil or meche. This technique has been around for many years and is still a popular choice for those looking to change their hair color. Highlights can be used to create both natural-looking and dramatic results, depending on the placement of the highlights and the type of color used.

Highlights require more maintenance than balayage because they need to be touched up every four to six weeks.

How to Choose the Right Technique for Your Hair Type

When choosing between balayage and highlights, it’s important to consider your hair type and texture. If you have fine or thin hair, highlights may be a better option because they add dimension without weighing down the hair.

If you have thick or coarse hair, balayage may be a better option because it can add both lightness and texture. When choosing between these two techniques, it’s also important to consider your lifestyle and how much time you’re willing to spend on hair maintenance.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, balayage is the way to go. If you don’t mind touch-ups every few weeks, highlights may be right for you.

No matter which technique you choose, be sure to consult with a professional colorist to find the best option for your hair type and desired look. The professional you choose should be able to provide you with a portfolio of their work so you can see examples of their previous work.

Balayage: Pros and Cons

Now that we’ve discussed the basics of balayage and highlights, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each technique.

Balayage Pros:
  • Natural-looking results
  • Grows out seamlessly
  • Low-maintenance
Balayage Cons:
  • Requires more time for the initial treatment
  • Can be expensive

Highlights: Pros and Cons

Now that we’ve discussed the basics of balayage and highlights, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each technique.

Highlights Pros:
  • Can be done in a shorter amount of time than balayage
  • Touch-ups are less frequent than with balayage
Highlights Cons:
  • More noticeable regrowth
  • Can damage the hair if not done correctly

Hire a Boise Hair Stylist No Matter Which Style You Choose

No matter which hair coloring technique you choose, be sure to hire a Boise hair stylist you can trust. At unDONE Salon., our team of skilled and experienced colorists can help you achieve the look you desire.

We offer a variety of hair coloring services, including balayage, highlights, lowlights, and more. We will work with you to find the best option for your hair type and desired look. Contact us at (208) 287-2010 or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to meeting you.

 

 

Hairstylist in Boise

What Is Balayage?

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Most often, the question is, “how do you say it?” BAH-LEE-AHGE, balayage is the french term “to sweep” or sweeping. As a hairstylist, this meaning is to freehand paint using a sweeping motion, creating soft, natural graduation of lightness to the ends of the hair.

How Does Balayage Differ From Ombre?

Ombre is a more horizontal placement, and balayage is more vertical. Ombre is more of a type of style as to where balayage is a technique.

How Is Balayage Different From Highlights?

Highlights follow a more structured pattern and are carefully placed. Balayage is free-hand painted onto the hair in large sections. Highlights are done by saturating the section of hair from the roots to ends. Balayage is done by painting the lightener from midshafts to ends.

Does Balayage Cost More?

In most cases, balayage does cost more using more product and taking more time to process due to open-air lightening as highlights are in foils locking in heat.

Is There A Difference In Maintaining Balayage Vs Highlighting?

Highlights are most often touched up every six weeks. Balayage usually can be touched up 3-4 months with a toner to freshen your look in between sessions every 4-6 weeks. Due to balayage focusing on the ends, which is the older hair, and in larger sections, it is beneficial to do conditioning treatments either at home or with your Boise hair salon stylist. If you want to go much lighter, there are hair extensions that have lighter ends already.

Boise Hair Salon

For whatever your thinking, it’s always a good idea to schedule a Boise hair salon consultation and ask as many questions as you may have before deciding if balayage is right for you.  Contact us by scheduling an appointment online or call us at (208) 287-2010.

Blog by Brooke Troyer

Smiling client during a hair consultation at a Boise hair salon with stylists reviewing her highlighted hair

Haircolor Techniques: What is Balayage?

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Are you wanting to change your look this fall but want to keep it natural? At unDONE Salon, we strive to make our clients look and feel their best while helping them achieve the hair of their dreams. That’s why we offer balayage at our Boise hair salon. The balayage technique, also known as hair painting, offers a variety of natural haircolor options for those who want to spruce up their fall style. That’s why we’d like to provide you with a little information about this popular haircolor technique.

What is Balayage?

If you are familiar with the Ombre haircolor technique, then you’ve seen a brief sample of what balayage is. While balayage doesn’t consist of any particular haircolor it does, however, incorporate darker roots to lighter ends. Unlike traditional highlights, balayage is a haircolor technique that requires the skill of a Boise hair salon stylist to paint the haircolor by hand without the use of foil. This method provides your stylist with greater control over the level of color, resulting in a softer, natural, more blended style.

Why We Love Balayage

Our Boise hair salon stylists know why balayage is such a popular haircolor technique. In addition to its ability to provide you with a soft, natural, and well-blended style, it’s also a great haircolor for those who want less upkeep and maintenance. The reason for this is because the balayage technique creates a dark to light appearance.This provides you with the perfect look as your hair grows out, meaning you’ll need less upkeep to maintain it.

Options To Consider

If you are interested in getting a balayage haircolor service, it’s important to keep in mind that there are a variety of spin-off techniques. As a result, there a many different haircolor styles you can achieve with this look. That’s why our Boise hair salon stylists recommend looking at several balayage haircolor samples to get an idea of what you’d like to achieve. However, it’s just as important to listen to the advice of your Boise hair salon stylist for what haircolor options they feel would work best for you. If you’d like, you can stop by unDONE Salon and speak with your stylist before booking an appointment so that you can discuss the outcome you desire and what you can expect during the balayage process.

Visit unDONE Salon

If you are looking for a natural, low maintenance haircolor, the balayage method may be right for you. Visit unDONE Salon near the the Boise Towne Square Mall and learn more about the haircolor services we offer. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment, contact us at (208) 287-2010 or schedule online. We look forward to providing you with a gorgeous haircolor you will love!

Haircolor confusion ….. What does it all mean? Written by Kim Denton Owner/Salon Coach

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As a Boise hair salon stylist, the terms Ombre, Balayage, Sun Lights Ombre, Foils, and Highlights can often be confusing not only to professionals like myself but to many of our clients as well. Guy Tang said it best when he said “Call it for what it its.” As stylists, we are happy to #HashTag anything just to get our name out there but in doing so, we have caused quite a bit of confusion in the world of haircolor. Haircolor these days has been moving so fast over the past couple of years that sometimes it can be hard just to keep up and share as much information with our clients as possible. In respect to Guy Tang, we need to call it for what it is so that there is less confusion on both parts.

So let’s face it. Are we really taking the time to communicate with our clients or are we simply using #HashTags  just to get our name out there?

When it comes to looking at a picture for inspiration, it’s important to really study it. We all know that a darker level of hair cannot go platinum with a balayage! Balayage is a haircolor painting technique for a soft, subtle, natural look that resembles a young girl’s hair. It is used with a clay based lightener that will not swell, puff or bleed. However, it is NOT powerful enough to lift hair more than a couple of levels. Over time and with persistence it will lighten hair gradually but it always gives it a sun kissed look like you were hanging out in the sun at the beach.

Ombre is a term used for a lighter look on the ends. Usually the roots are shadowed meaning a darker shade than the natural level. This can be a dramatic look or a subtle look. The hair is usually back combed and the hair left out is foiled for a brighter result.

Sun Lights on the other hand, are a beautiful look for clients in between. This term consists of baby highlights on the top of the head followed with a ombre to brighten up the ends. Also, shading the root area can be done for a more dramatic look. Keep in mind that clients and stylists often both mistake this technique for Bayalage. *Remember this technique includes foils so you will get lighter results than the Balayage technique.

But more than anything, let’s face it… Sometimes a beautiful highlight is all a client needs to get the job done! So no matter what color technique you’re interested in trying, its best to consult with your Boise hair salon stylist. Happy coloring!