BALAYAGE VS. OMBRÉ: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE & WHICH STYLE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
In the world of it-girl hair colors, there are two most requested and often confused for one another: balayage and ombré. These hair coloring techniques have become the go-to for anyone looking to add some depth, dimension, or just plain fun to their hair.
Balayage and ombré might be sisters in the hair color family, but they're definitely not twins. Intrigued? Let's dive into the colorful world of balayage and ombré to uncover their distinct vibes and see which one might be your hair soulmate.
Vibrant Purple Coloring Conditioner
The Bleach 30 Volume Hair Lightening System
Extreme Pink Coloring Conditioner
The Hydrator Moisturizing Shampoo
Ginger Coloring Conditioner
Espresso Brown Coloring Conditioner
Hair Color Starter Kit
What's Balayage Anyway?
Balayage, a term that sounds as chic as the style it produces, comes from the French word meaning "to sweep." And that's exactly what your stylist does—sweeping color through your hair to create a sun-kissed, natural look.
The Technique: Imagine an artist, palette in hand, painting your hair as their canvas. The balayage technique involves freehand painting onto the hair surface, avoiding the roots for a more natural, blended effect. This method allows for a personalized touch, with colors placed where they'll catch the light just right.
Why Balayage? If you're all about that effortless, just-back-from-the-beach vibe, balayage is your BFF. It's low maintenance, grows out beautifully without harsh root lines, and works on any hair color or length. Plus, it adds depth and dimension that makes your hair look like it has its own Instagram filter.
Exploring Ombré
Ombré, another chic French word, means "shaded." And in the hair world, it's all about graduating from darker roots to lighter ends.
The Technique: Ombré is the gradient of hair dreams, with color transitioning from one shade to another. It can include variations like sombré (a softer, subtler ombré) and color melting, where multiple colors blend seamlessly together.
The Ombré Effect: Ombré is more of a style statement. It’s bold, it’s dramatic, and it says, "Yes, I meant to have my hair look like the perfect sunset." Unlike balayage, ombré focuses on the contrast between colors, making it a more noticeable choice.
Choosing Between Balayage and Ombré
When deciding between balayage and ombré, consider your hair length, color goals and how much maintenance you're up for. Balayage is versatile and low-maintenance, perfect for a more natural look. Ombré, while still versatile, makes a bolder statement and may require a bit more upkeep to keep those gradients gorgeous.
Looking to DIY either? Look no further than The Bleach 30 Volume Hair Lightening System. This gentle bleaching kit contains plant-based ingredients and nourishing oils to keep your hair looking hydrated and happy while Toning Violet Micro Pigments help neutralize unwanted yellow or brassy tones.
Upgrade your Balayage and Ombré with OVERTONE
Whether you're transitioning seasons or perhaps over the blonde additions to your hair, you can completely transform your look by adding a fun, vibrant pop of color. OVERTONE makes this incredibly simple with vegan, cruelty-free Coloring Conditioners in a rainbow of hues that deposit long-lasting color while deep conditioning just like a hair mask. Try adding your favorite color all over to boost your balayage or on your ombré to enhance that gorgeous gradient. If you're feeling adventurous, try two or more colors to create a look that's all your own.
Maintenance Tips for Balayage and Ombré Hair
After bleaching your hair to achieve balayage or ombré styles, a good conditioning treatment can work wonders. Reach for The Remedy Colorless Hair Mask to nourish and condition hair from root to tip. A blend of beneficial botanicals like shea butter, coconut oil, evening primrose oil, spearmint oil, and rosemary oil treat your scalp and locks to some post-coloring love. Embrace gentle, sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo, like The Hydrator, wash less frequently, and don’t forget about heat protection.
Whether you lean towards the subtle, natural beauty of balayage or the bold, dramatic flair of ombré, there's a hair color technique out there that's perfect for your individual style. And if you're looking to keep that color looking fresh and vibrant, don't forget to check out our range of Coloring Conditioners. They're just what you need to maintain that salon-quality color and shine, no matter which color adventure you choose.