I think many of us have wanted to color our hair. I personally got my first highlights 2 years ago! It felt good to change up my style from black hair.
I decided to try balayage in January and it was definitely a step up from getting highlights which was just a few pieces of hair colored.
Balayage Vs. Highlights
Balayage is a freehand hair painting technique that gives the hair a natural look. The plus side is that you can go months without another appointment because the color is not applied to the roots.
On the other hand, highlights are applied using foils and can appear as streaks of color on your hair. As hair grows out, the color difference can be more visible and requires more hair appointments to redo the color.
You should choose balayage if:
*you want less maintenance
*don’t want to dye your roots
*want a natural colored look
*want to invest some money into your hair look
There were definitely a few key differences between highlights and balayage. In this post I will be covering mostly my experience with Balayage.
Price
Balayage costs anywhere between $100 to $500 depending on the salon, hair colorist and where you live. I used a Groupon and it costed me $100.00. Now, if you are planning to find some deals, I recommend that you do some background work and make sure the salon is reputed. You should read reviews and look at examples of the hair stylists work to see if you think it will be a good place to go.
My experience
In one word my experience with this was: NOPE.
I texted the stylist a photo of my current hair and some inspiration photos of what I wanted it to look like.
My natural black hair.
What I wanted:
The next day I go in and the process was honestly so long. She first cut my hair, then started the coloring process. I don’t know exactly what she did but all I know is that it didn’t look like the photo I showed her!!!!
I made sure to communicate exactly what I wanted and told her how my hair processes really quickly. Based on my pervious highlighting experience I knew that my hair got yellow real fast. This happened because the bleach was left in too long and caused it to become very dry and damaged. I ended up having to cut my hair because it was so unhealthy.
At the end of it all I honestly was so disappointed and frustrated that it didn’t turn out right. It looked ugly and when I saw my reflection I literally cried.
My worst nightmare in reality. Is that a tiger??
What not to do
After a total of three hair coloring experiences (which were all different), I think it’s safe to say I have some key pointers and tips for y’all.
1.Think twice and thrice and repeat
If you have never colored your hair, it is important you think it over before coloring. My hair is so important for me and so getting it colored meant I would have to trust a stranger with my hair. It is definetly a risk.
2. DON’T choose the salon/stylist randomly
Make sure you read tons of reviews, look at the salons Facebook to view their work, and call them to make sure they know what are doing. I recommend doing a consultation so you will be informed and can communicate clearly about what you want.
3. DON’T think this will be cheap
I wish it were not true, but dying hair causes damage and you will need to buy hair care products. The maintenance of your hair will increase as you will need to buy color safe shampoo, deep conditioning hair masks to restore moisture, blue or purple shampoo to cancel orange tones in your hair, and more.
4. DON’T assume the stylist can read your mind
Communication is KEY here. If you feel like the stylist is doing their own thing, that is a red flag. Make sure they communicate each step they are doing and that you ask any questions. If you feel unhappy with the result, please let the stylist know!! I texted the stylist and luckily she said that she can apply a hair toner to cancel the orangey pieces of hair.
5. DON’T go to chain salons
I think you know why. Just don’t. Invest in the good stuff guys. Save yourselves the nightmare. (Talking from experience) Research salons in your area and get recommendations for good stylists.
Some good news
This post is not meant to discourage anyone from getting balayage! I wanted to share my hair experience and provide some tips to make sure you can have a better experience!
Luckily, the original color died down a bit and faded into a much more natural color. I also purchased blue shampoo and a shampoo to cancel brassiness. If I could, I would invest more money to get my hair colored at a professional hair salon!
If you are looking to color your hair and have any questions or want recommendations for my favorite products, leave a comment down below!
Check out my Pinterest board for hair color and hair cut inspiration!
Thank you for reading and until next time don’t forget to stay Chic Neat and Sweet!
Sincerely, Aditi
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