Partial Balayage: the Hottest Hair Trend | Beauty

Read all about the newest hair color trend: partial balayage!

Over the years my hair has undergone quite the transformation. From dark brown to black, red, bright blonde streaks (during my me phase…I was a real gem in high school) and most recently ombre. While I was in love with the ombre trend, after 4 years I felt I needed a change. My hair is naturally dark brown, so I liked how the blonde ombre lightened up the look. As the ombre trend began to fade (get it?!) balayage began to grow in popularity. While ombre is the transition of a dark shade to light, balayage is a more graduated, natural looking highlighting technique. Once I arrived at the salon, my hairdresser suggested I go with a partial balayage. I had never heard of such a thing, but let her work her magic anyways. It turned out to me my favorite haircolor thus far – and I wanted to share it with you all!

What is a partial balayage?

Much like a balayage, a partial balayage is a freehand colouring technique where highlights are added to your hair. While a traditional balayage consists of applying highlights throughout your full head of hair, a partial balayage only includes highlights on your top layer of hair.

Who should get a partial balayage?

Anyone can get a partial balayage, however I’d highly recommend those with virgin hair (never bleached) to go for a partial balayage, instead of a traditional balayage. It’s a fun way to spice up your hairstyle, without committing to a full transformation. It will look more natural, and be less damaging on your hair.

Who should do my partial balayage?

Make sure to do your research and find a hairdresser well-experienced in balayage. A great way to see if a hairdresser can give you the look you want is looking through their portfolio. Don’t assume any hairdresser can give you a partial balayage. Call around and ask who has experience and feels comfortable doing a partial balayage – then ask if they have an online portfolio (Instagram accounts can also work!).

How do I care for my partial balayage?

While a partial balayage is less damaging to your hair than a partial balayage, bleach is still being applied to your hair. As a result, it needs extra care and moisture. There are several ways to care for your partial balayage. First: use heat on your hair sparingly. If you’re like me and like your hair constantly styled, I’d invest in a blowdryer that dries your hair fast and doesn’t use too much direct heat. I’ve been using this hairdryer for a year and a half and my hair is in the best condition of it’s life. I can see a noticeable difference in my hair right after I’ve dried it. It is shiny and feels smooth to the touch. Next, if you like to rock waves, I’d suggest using a curling wand that creates curls you don’t have to touch up. I use this curling wand and have perfect curls for three days. Unlike other curling wands, I don’t have to touch up my hair, exposing it to extra heat (and further damaging it). This is the best curling wand I’ve ever used, and it also comes in a set with three different sized barrels (I used the 1″ straight barrel in these photos). Next up: make sure to use a brush that doesn’t tug at your hair, creating breakages. I swear by this brush – it’s only $12 and comes in multiple colors. It’s the only brush I’ve ever used that doesn’t tug on my tangles (and I get a LOT post shower). It’s a must have for all!

What hair products should I use for my partial balayage?

Anyone who has bleached hair should be using a shampoo and conditioner made for damaged, dull and color treated hair. While I jump around products, this is my absolute favorite shampoo and conditioner. I promise they are absolutely worth the money. A leave in conditioner is also a must. I jump around brands, however this is my all time favorite (and smells like HEAVEN!). I apply a dime size amount to the highlighted portions of my hair and my ends. Finally, a purple shampoo works wonders on highlighted hair. Bleached hair tends to become brassy over time. To reverse this brassy look and brighten your highlights I’d suggest using a purple shampoo once or twice a week. I use this shampoo every other wash and keep it in my hair 2-3 minutes before rinsing. I’ve also heard great things about this purple shampoo and intend on trying it out ASAP! Finally, I’d suggest getting a silk pillowcase to reduce hair tangle and pull throughout the night – damaging your hair. It is also crafted to reduce friction, which aids in reducing stretching and tugging on your skin. It’s a win-win!

There you have it! If you’re on the fence whether or not you want a partial balayage – I think you should do it! As long as you find an experienced hairstylist and commit to spending extra time and care on your hair – you’re golden (get it?!).