Boost Your Hair Color With Balayage

Balayage, the French technique that creates natural-looking highlights, is done by an experienced colorist using freehand hair painting. Think candy-shop treats like butterscotch, caramel and chocolate to envision the color theory behind balayage. This multi-tonal, brown-blonde effect (nicknamed “bronde”) can be simple or dramatic, varying from a soft wash to dramatic hair ribbons that add dimension to hair. Another twist is ombre balayage, subtle color transitions from roots to ends in many color combinations. “More and more clients are asking for balayage because it’s low-maintenance, ‘one-and-done’ hair color that grows out softly and beautifully,” says master stylist Annmarie Russo of Bangz Salon and Wellness Spa in Montclair. “It’s easy to transition into fall by adding more caramel and red highlights and fewer blonde highlights. This look works for everyone, no matter what age group, hair texture or hair length. We’ve even done balayage on super-short pixie cuts. If you have hair, we can paint it.”