I think we all can appreciate a good color refresh! Sometimes switching up your look or adding a little bit of *spice* can really get you feeling your absolute best. One of the hottest trends this summer, and really in the last year, has been the Balayage. It takes on a similar approach to normal highlights, but adds an extra pop. It can be completely personalized causing people to do a double-take every time. Go natural, go bold, go crazy!

At Neroli Salon and Spa, our hairstylists are not only talented, but creative. If you have a vision, they are guaranteed to bring that to life. Balayage has been around for what feels like forever, but there is still a lot of people who are unsure of the difference. Completely normal, I didn’t know either!

What is the difference between highlights and balayage? To keep it simple, balayage comes from the French word balayer meaning “to sweep.” Think of an artist painting a canvas, that is the exactly our approach to your hair. Starting lightly at the root, and gradually thickening on the way down, it creates an ombre look. Balayage is known to be a lot more creative because of the “paint” approach, but it is generally more natural looking. However, we have had plenty of clients do eye-catching balayage color with a more dramatic presence.

Highlights are more structured. The color is specifically placed throughout your hair starting at the root and working down through specific strands and placement. Similar process to balayage, however it is known to be less creative, more routine, and more dramatic. Nothing is wrong with either of these approaches. In fact, there is a never-ending debate on which one is “better.”

If you ever have any questions, our hairstylists and Aveda Advisors would be happy to assist you. Check out a few balayage looks by the Neroli team below!