What is balayage?
Balayage is a French word that means "to sweep." Instead of placing color in even sections, the colorist paints lightener or color onto the surface of the hair in soft, sweeping strokes. The pieces are usually brighter toward the ends and softer near the root.
The result is less regular than foil highlights. It looks lived-in and natural, with brightness where the sun would really hit: around your face, on the top layer and through the ends.
Who does balayage suit?
Balayage works well on many hair types, especially from shoulder length to long. It is a strong choice if you want brightness without a strict upkeep schedule, if you are growing out a darker color, or if you want a soft first step into lighter hair.
On brunettes it can mean warm caramel ribbons. On blondes it can mean soft brightness around the face and lighter ends. Esther mixes the shade for your skin, eyes and hair, so the color looks like it belongs to you.
Real balayage by Esther, brunette and blonde
The photo on this page shows two real clients. One wears a brunette balayage with caramel ribbons. The other wears a soft blonde balayage with lived-in waves. Esther did the color and the finish on both.
Notice how neither one has a stripe or a hard line. That softness is the point of balayage. Learn more about brunette color and blonde color.
How much does balayage cost in Palm Beach?
Full balayage is $275+ and partial balayage is $200+. Partial balayage focuses on the face frame and the top layers. Full balayage goes through the whole head for brightness all around.
The "+" means "and up." Longer or thicker hair takes more time and product, and hair with old color may need extra steps first. Esther gives you the exact quote at the free consultation. Text Esther at 561-631-6462 to set one up.
How does balayage grow out?
Because the color is painted in soft strokes and kept gentler near the root, there is no sharp line as your hair grows. Many people find they can wait longer between balayage visits than between foil highlight visits.
The tone on top can soften with sun, salt water and washing. A glaze between appointments brings back fresh tone and shine without a full color service.
Balayage or highlights: which should you choose?
Choose balayage for a soft, sun-kissed look and easy grow-out. Choose foil highlights if you want brighter, more even lift from root to end, or more help blending gray at the part. Some clients like a mix of both, and Esther will walk you through the choice at your consultation. The tip highlights or balayage compares them side by side.
Questions clients ask
How long does balayage last?
The lightened pieces don't wash out; they grow out softly, so the shape stays pretty for a long time. What changes is the tone on top, which can fade with sun, salt water and shampoo. A glaze between visits refreshes it and brings back the shine.
Is balayage good for gray hair?
Balayage can soften the look of scattered gray, but it is not full coverage. If you want gray covered, Esther may suggest color first, then highlights, her clients' favorite combination, or a softer blend. She will talk through every option at your free consultation.
What is partial balayage?
Partial balayage ($200+) places hand-painted color around your face and through the top layers, where it shows most. It is a lovely first step into balayage or an in-between refresh. Full balayage ($275+) goes through the whole head for brightness all around.
How should I care for balayage at home?
Use a gentle, color-safe shampoo and a good conditioner, protect your hair from heat and strong sun, and rinse with fresh water after the ocean or pool. A glaze between visits keeps the tone fresh. Ask Esther which products suit your hair at your next visit.