Balayage is a highlighting technique that’s increasingly trending from quite some time. Unlike traditional highlights, which are typically applied in a foiling method and use pre-lightened hair, balayage is a freehand technique that can be used on both light and dark hair. The result is a more natural-looking, sun-kissed finish.
Balayage can be used to create a range of looks, from subtle to dramatic. It’s a great option for those who want to add some dimension to their hair without making a radical change. The best thing about balayage is that it’s low-maintenance. Because the highlights are applied more naturally, they grow out more evenly and don’t require as much touch-up as traditional highlights.
If you’re considering balayage, you must be interested in finding how to maintain balayage at home, how long does balayage last, how to touch up balayage, and much more, keep reading as we’ve got you covered!
Table of Contents
How to Maintain Balayage at Home
If you’re curious to know about how to keep balayage from fading and want to add some dimension to your hair, balayage is a great option. With its natural-looking finish and low-maintenance upkeep, balayage is a great choice for hustling gals who want to look their best.
Use color safe products
Balayage highlights are a beautiful way to add dimension and flair to your hair. But like all hair colors, they require some maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner will greatly help to extend the life of your highlights and keep your hair healthy. Color-safe hair products are specifically designed to not strip color from hair. This can be especially important for those with color-treated hair, as using the wrong products can cause the color to fade prematurely.
When opting for color-safe hair products, check the labels carefully. Make sure that the product is gentle and free of harsh chemicals, like sulfate, that can strip color from dyed hair, causing it to fade prematurely..
Minimize heat
Heat can damage your hair and cause your highlights to fade prematurely. If you must use hot tools, use a heat protectant spray beforehand.
While hot tools are tempting for their ability to give us the perfect hair day, it’s important to note the damaging effects they can have on our locks. Prolong exposure to heat can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
In order to keep our hair healthy and strong, it’s best to use hot tools to the minimum. But, if it’s necessary to use them there are a few key ways to limit the damage caused by hot tools.
First, make sure you’re using a heat protectant product before styling your hair with a blow dryer, curling iron, or flat iron. This will help create a barrier between your hair and the heat source.
Second, avoid using hot tools on wet or damp hair, as this can cause even more damage.
And finally, try to let your hair air dry whenever possible, and give your hot tools a break every now and then to give your hair a chance to recover. While it may take a little extra time and effort, but it will be worth it in the long run.
Avoid ultraviolet rays
Exposure to UV rays can cause your hair to become dry, brittle, and break. It can also fade your hair color and cause it to become dull. So, if you want to keep your balayage highlights looking its best, it’s important to avoid UV rays. Here are a few tips on how to do that:
First, limit your time in the sun. If you’re going to be outside for an extended period of time, make sure to cover your head with a hat or scarf.
Second, use a UV-protective hair product. There are a number of hair products on the market that claim to offer UV protection. Look for one that has an SPF of 30 or higher.
Lastly, use a leave-in conditioner as they are formulated to help hydrate and protect your hair. Look for one that contains sunscreen for added protection.
Avoid over-washing your hair
Over washing your hair can strip away the color and leave it looking dull and lifeless. It can also cause the color to fade prematurely. Therefore, try to wash your balayage hair sparingly to enjoy beautiful color for a longer period.
Experts recommend not to wash your hair for at least 24 hours after getting hair colored to lock the pigments naturally.
Touch up your highlights
With balayage, your roots won’t show as quickly as with other hair coloring techniques, so you can stretch out your visits to the hair salon. To keep your balayage looking fresh, visit the salon every 3-4 months for a touch-up. Be sure to keep your hair healthy and moisturized between appointments. This will help to keep your balayage looking fresh and will help your highlights last longer.
Protect your hair from chlorine
Chlorine is often used in pools to keep the water clean and free of bacteria. However, chlorine can also be damaging to hair. When hair is exposed to chlorine, the chlorine molecules can attach to the hair shaft and strip away the natural oils that protect and moisturize the hair. This can lead to dry, brittle, and unhealthy-looking hair.
In addition, chlorine can also cause the hair to become bleached and discolored. If you swim regularly in a chlorinated pool, it is important to take care of your balayage hair to prevent damage.
So, it is important to use a swim cap or wet the hair before swimming. After swimming, a quick rinse will help remove any chlorine that seeped into the hair shaft.
Also, use a shampoo and conditioner that are designed for swimmers. These products will help to remove chlorine from your hair and protect your hair from future damage.