The balayage trend has been rocking the runway since 2005 and it shows no sign of slacking off today. We’re going to give you the lowdown on exactly why the look is so hot and wildly popular and how you can achieve the timelessly elegant look yourself with extensions so without further ado, bring on the balayage!

What Is Balayage?

Balayage is the most popular hair colouring request in salons up and down the country but a surprising number of people still don’t know what it is! Don’t let the fancy French pronunciation fool you – Balayage translates to ‘sweeping’ and this really is a sassy, slinky look that you’ll love!

Balayage is a French colouring technique that debuted in the 1970s and endures consistent popularity today. Referred to as a freehand technique, balayage is cultivated by hand as colour is applied without the use of the traditional foiling or cap highlighting techniques typically employed by salons and hairdressers. The results garner the most striking effect on longer locks but even pixie crops can be given the balayage treatment making it a versatile approach for all ladies locks.

Why Is It So Hot?

The look is so fantastically popular because hairdressers are able to create a strong range of personalised looks, from soft, subtle colour to a dynamic, rebellious look. There is truly no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to balayage! As a low maintenance look, it packs a strong punch and gives women that highly esteemed sweeping, sun kissed look that suits the office, beach or party. Balayage works because it gives women colour but in a blended, natural way that is highly flattering.

How Can I Make The Look Work For Me?

Extensions work beautifully with balayage. The look typically suits longer styles, although shorter hair can still incorporate that sizzling lightened look. Using extensions to add length, thickness and volume to the hair is a great place to start but lightened extensions can also be added to create that warm, endearing glow that characterises balayage. You can use extensions to basically tick all three boxes; length, volume and lightness! On natural hair, balayage takes several sessions to build that intense colour. With extensions, that look can be cultivated instantly making it a far more immediate process.

Give balayage a go and you’ll see why this style is never going out of fashion!