ash brown balayage

Balayage, a French hair coloring technique that translates to “to sweep,” has taken the hair industry by storm. It involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair, creating a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect. And in 2023, one of the hottest balayage trends is ash brown.

What is Ash Brown Balayage?

Ash brown balayage is a technique that blends cool ash tones with warm brown hues to create a multidimensional and sophisticated look. The ash tones neutralize any unwanted yellow or orange undertones in the hair, resulting in a cool, icy effect. The brown tones add warmth and depth, preventing the hair from looking too ashy or gray.

Why Ash Brown Balayage is Trending

According to a recent survey by the American Salon Association, ash brown balayage is one of the most requested hair colors in salons across the country. This trend is likely due to its versatility and flattering nature. Ash brown balayage complements a wide range of skin tones and hair textures, from fair to dark and straight to curly. It’s also a great choice for those who want to embrace the trend of cool hair colors without going full-on platinum.

How to Get Ash Brown Balayage

Getting ash brown balayage requires a skilled and experienced hair colorist. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Consultation: Your colorist will assess your hair condition, skin tone, and desired look to determine the best shade of ash brown and highlighting technique for you.
2. Foiling or Painting: Your colorist will use foils or a brush to apply the ash brown highlights to your hair. The highlights should be placed strategically to create a natural-looking blend.
3. Toning: After the highlights are processed, your colorist will apply a toner to neutralize any unwanted warm tones and enhance the cool ash effect.
4. Styling: Once the toner is rinsed out, your hair will be styled to show off your new ash brown balayage.

Benefits of Ash Brown Balayage

• Versatile: Complements a wide range of skin tones and hair textures
• Stylish: On-trend and modern
• Natural-looking: Creates the illusion of sun-kissed hair
• Long-lasting: Can last up to 6 months with proper care
• Damage-minimizing: Less damaging than traditional foil highlights

Drawbacks of Ash Brown Balayage

• Upkeep: Requires regular touch-ups to maintain the ash brown tone
• Can be expensive: Professional balayage can be costly, especially for long or thick hair
• Not suitable for all hair types: May not look natural on very dark or highly textured hair

Tips for Maintaining Ash Brown Balayage

• Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner: Look for products that are specifically designed for color-treated hair to prevent fading and brassiness.
• Wash hair less frequently: Over-washing can strip away the toner and cause the ash brown tone to fade. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days.
• Use a purple shampoo: Purple shampoo helps to neutralize yellow tones and keep the ash brown tone looking fresh. Use it once or twice a week.
• Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning helps to keep your hair healthy and vibrant, which will make the ash brown balayage look its best. Deep condition your hair every 1-2 weeks.
• Get regular trims: Split ends can make your ash brown balayage look dull and unkempt. Get regular trims to remove split ends and keep your hair looking healthy.

FAQs

1. How long does ash brown balayage last?

With proper care, ash brown balayage can last up to 6 months.

2. How much does ash brown balayage cost?

The cost of ash brown balayage varies depending on the length and thickness of your hair, as well as the skill level of your colorist. Expect to pay between $150 and $500.

3. Is ash brown balayage suitable for all hair types?

Ash brown balayage is suitable for most hair types, but it may not look natural on very dark or highly textured hair.

4. How often should I touch up my ash brown balayage?

Touch-ups are typically needed every 6-8 weeks to maintain the ash brown tone.

5. Can I do ash brown balayage at home?

While it is possible to attempt ash brown balayage at home, it is highly recommended to have it done by a professional colorist to ensure the best results.

6. What should I do if my ash brown balayage turns brassy?

If your ash brown balayage turns brassy, you can use a purple shampoo to neutralize the yellow tones. You can also try using a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup that may be contributing to the brassiness.

7. How can I add dimension to my ash brown balayage?

You can add dimension to your ash brown balayage by adding lowlights in a slightly darker shade of brown. This will create a more multidimensional and natural-looking effect.

8. Can I use heat styling tools on my ash brown balayage?

You can use heat styling tools on your ash brown balayage, but be sure to use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage.