Is it really a balayage that you are wanting? Many are confusing a look with a technique.  Balayage is a technique, not a look.  Because this is the new sexy word, it may not be what you are really wanting.

 

Balayage is actually the art of painting color on the hair with a freehand sweeping motion. 

 

Most people are looking for a lived-in look. A look with dimension and a more natural (rooted) look.  In order to get this look, stylists use one or more techniques to achieve this.  Balayage is just one.  And it can be done with or without foils.  

 

A soft transition and dimension are usually what clients are wanting. These “looks” come from many techniques like teasylights, babylights, balayage, and foiling.

 

For a colorist to determine the best technique necessary to get the look you want, several things need to be taken into consideration:

1- if you are light or previously lightened, balayage will give enough lift to get to a light blonde.

2- if you are previously colored or naturally dark, foils are necessary to create heat and give the desired lift.

3- if multiple levels of lightness are desired, both foil and balayage may be necessary.

 

The best way to communicate with your stylist is to bring three to five images of the look you like.  Then, let your stylist determine the best method to achieve this.