Modern Salon.com

Thursday November 14, 2013

5 Truths Behind the French Balayage Service

The color technique of balayage has spread like wildfire throughout the U.S. as a must-have at top salons throughout the country. Originating in France, the French coloring technique was developed in the 1970s and the color is applied using freehand rather than by using cap highlighting or traditional foiling techniques. The technique allows the color to give their clients natural looking highlights that don't leave a solid line of demarcation, so the grow out process looks more natural.

"Not all salons offer traditional French balayage, leaving many women exiting salons thinking they got the “real deal”-- but didn't," says Chicago's Maxine Salon. Here, he offers MODERN five things about balayage you may have not known before. Here's to teaching your clients the truth behind the service!

1. The definition of balayage itself is a French word meaning scanning or sweeping.
2. True French balayage is not done using any foil or meche strips (which is often done in the US and called balayage).
3. French balayage should be painted vertically, keeping the color only on the top of the hair strand, then layering in depth on the ends. Never should it be brushed or pushed down the hair!
4. French balayage is a highlighting technique, not a color or shade.
5. Real French balayage should always look and feel natural; a graceful messy even. Imperfection is key. It is the European finesse of the French, and being “cool” without trying.