Summer Hair (Part 3 of 3) - The Color: Balayage

After cutting my hair into a long bob (Part 1) and perming it to add texture and volume (Part 2), I finally achieved my ideal summer hair by getting a balayage. Endless thanks to Robert Leonard Salon & Day Spa (in Seattle) for generously treating me to an appointment with the amazing balayage-queen, Allison Heuer!

Here are 3 basics that convinced me to go for a balayage:

1. Balayage vs. Ombre: Ombre is when the roots are darker and fades into a lighter color at the strands. Balayage is a French technique that sweeps the highlights towards the face for a sun-kissed look. (The balayage technique could be used for an ombre to soften the blending.)

2. Natural: Sombre (subtle ombre) is the new ombre! Foiled highlights can look too uniform and thus a bit unnatural. A balayage is up to the artistic strokes of the colorist, and blends more subtly into the hair.

3. Low-Maintenance: Because the color doesn't get too close to the roots, the roots aren't as obvious when they grow out. This means less frequent touch ups!

Since my hair is doubly chemically treated, I am gung-ho about keeping my locks healthy. I wash my hair every other day or less and use dry shampoo (Alterna). Use color-safe shampoo (Bumble and bumble) and conditioner (DevaCurl) to keep hair from turning brassy, and a moisture mask once a week (Gloss Moderne). For daily shine, I apply hair oil (Josie Maran) and oil treatment mist (Wen).

If you have any more questions about balayage, ask in the comments below and I'll respond!

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