Ombré, balayage. The result is really great hair, we know that much. But, what’s the difference? Quite a lot actually. Read on, so you know what to ask your hairdresser for at your next salon trip (besides a strong cup of tea, and a really great Sudoku book – just me?).
By Rachel Spedding
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1 What is ombré?
Okay, let’s clear one thing up. Ombré is a style, balayage is a technique. Ombré lightens hair at the ends by fully saturating with colour, then diffuses upward. A proper ombré will show no distinct line (that’s why DIY-ing is a bad idea). FYI, ombré is translated from French as “colour that is graduated in tone”. Crack that one out at a pub quiz. So cosmopolitan.
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2 What is balayage?
Balayage refers to how the colour is applied. This one originates from the French word “to sweep”, and the technique does just that; adding ‘highlights’ across the hair. The transition from light to dark will look a little more natural, with extra dimension (basically, it still looks great on day three of no washing). For highlights, foils are used, for balayage, the colour is painted directly on.
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3 Which should you go for?
Well, as with all things beauty, each to their own. The plus of balayage though, is that it grows out seriously naturally – root regrowth just isn’t a thing. It’s also a good technique if you’re edging to a full colour change. Ombré gives a more distinct appearance between two shades, balayage blends it all together in one seamless situation of wondrous colour. But yep, no bias.
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4 The extra intel
As with any hair dyeing, the chemicals within the formula can affect the ph balance of your scalp. So try using shampoos with colour-treating properties (just ask your hairdresser, they’ll know). Oh, and as for colour, each technique will work on whichever shade you're going for – just to make your decision easier…
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FAQs
What is the main difference between ombré and balayage hair colouring?
The main difference is that ombré is a style, while balayage is a technique. Ombré lightens hair at the ends and gradually blends upward for a graduated look, whereas balayage involves sweeping colour onto sections for a more natural, multi-dimensional result.
How does balayage make your hair look as it grows out?
Balayage grows out very naturally, so root regrowth is typically not noticeable. Since the colour is painted directly onto the hair and softly blended, you can enjoy a seamless look even weeks after your salon visit.
Can you choose any hair colour for ombré or balayage?
You can use either technique on any hair colour you want. Both ombré and balayage are versatile, making them suitable for achieving a wide range of shades and looks, no matter your starting colour.
What should you use to care for coloured hair after these treatments?
Use shampoos with colour-treating properties to help protect your scalp’s pH balance after dyeing. Colouring chemicals can affect the health of your scalp and hair, so ask your hairdresser to recommend suitable products for maintenance.
What effect does ombré give compared to balayage?
Ombré gives a more distinct appearance between two shades, whereas balayage blends them together seamlessly. If you want a bold contrast, ombré is ideal; for softer, natural dimension, balayage is a better choice.