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Maybe you’re considering getting a balayage done in a salon, but you’re not sure how much it will cost. We understand that balayage is a popular hair color technique, and you want to ensure you’re budgeting appropriately.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of a balayage and what you can expect to pay at different types of salons. This way, you’ll never go into an appointment unprepared!
What Is a Balayage?
Balayage is a hair-painting technique named after the French word meaning “to sweep.” Hair stylists use this technique to achieve a natural look that blends seamlessly between sections of the hair without using foils.
Performing a balayage requires patience, practice, understanding of light and shadow, and an artistic eye. Balayage refers to highlighting the hair to achieve a sun-kissed look that allows clients to go longer between salon visits without root regrowth being as noticeable.
It has become popular in recent years because of celebrities on the red carpet, and many stylists have learned the technique as a result of clients hoping to achieve the same results.
How Much Does a Balayage Cost?
So, you’re considering getting a balayage? Great decision! Balayage is a great way to add depth and dimension to your hair. Before you book that appointment, you need to know how much it’s going to cost.
Balayage costs between $75 and $400 per session, and you may need more than one session to achieve the result you’re looking for.
Remember that the final cost will depend on a few factors, such as the length of your hair and the salon you go to. The cost will also vary depending on the population of the area you live in.
The cost may be lower in smaller and less populated areas than in a large city or metropolitan area. Since the cost of a balayage can vary so wildly, exact costs will depend on your hair and your chosen stylist, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and get a quote.
How Salons Charge for Balayage
Balayage is one of the most popular hair color trends out there right now. Before booking an appointment at your favorite salon, you need to know how much it will cost.
Typically, salons charge by the volume of color used, so the more balayage needed to achieve your desired result, the more it will cost. Bleach applications for balayage require thicker product mixes so that the chemicals can do their job while staying in place on the hair without foils.
Some salons also charge a flat rate for balayage, regardless of how much product is used. Other salons may charge by the hour, so it’s always a good idea to ask your stylist how they charge for this service upfront.
How Stylists Calculate the Cost of Balayage
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When calculating the cost of a balayage, there are a few factors that stylists take into account. The first is the time it will take to complete the treatment. Then, there’s the amount of color used and the products needed to perform the service.
Your hair history and whether any color correction may be needed if you’ve colored your hair previously will also play into the final cost of a balayage. And finally, there’s the skill and experience of the stylist to take consider as well.
All of these factors will contribute to the final cost of your balayage treatment. So, if you’re looking to complete this hair color process, be prepared to spend a bit more than you would for a traditional highlight treatment.
Stylists also vary in how they charge. Some stylists may charge hourly, some may charge a flat fee per service, and others will charge depending on how much product is used. It’s always best to ask!
Factors That Affect the Cost of Balayage
So, how much does balayage cost? The cost of this hair coloring technique can vary depending on a few factors. An experienced professional will charge more for their services than someone just starting their styling career.
The products used during the treatment will also affect the overall cost. The desired result will also play a massive part in determining the cost of your balayage.
If you have dark brown hair that does not lift easily or if you have previously colored your hair, it will cost more to get a platinum blonde balayage than a medium brown balayage.
How to Get a Cheaper Balayage
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Balayage is a hair coloring technique that has grown in popularity recently. It can give your hair a beautiful, sun-kissed look, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants to add a little color without going too crazy.
Balayage can be pretty pricey, so how can you get a cheaper balayage? One way is to buy supplies and do it yourself. Doing a balayage on your own can be a great option if you’re handy with a hairbrush and know how to use hair dye correctly.
Another way to save money on balayage is to find a salon that offers student discounts. Many salons offer discounts to students, so it’s worth asking around before you book your appointment.
Finally, you can also look for beauty schools in your area. Students working on the salon floor in beauty schools are supervised by their instructors.
And since the students are still learning and perfecting their techniques, this is a great option to allow someone to hone their skills. You may even find your new favorite stylist and be able to stay with them for years to come!
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Is It Worth It to Get a Balayage?
While getting a balayage is popular, how do you know if it’s worth it to get one and if a balayage is right for you? If you have short hair, a balayage may be an option, but you would need to consult with your stylist before proceeding.
Your stylist may have other options for achieving the same results using a different technique. If you have medium to long hair, a balayage is perfect for brightening your look without committing to being back in the salon chair every three to four weeks for root touchups.
A few factors can affect the final price, such as the length and thickness of your hair and the level of color you’re looking for at the end.
So, how much does a balayage cost on average? Around $150–$200. If you’re still set on a balayage, book that appointment and prepare to be dazzled!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Still have questions about the balayage style? Read on for the most commonly asked!
What makes a balayage so different from other hair coloring techniques?
While there are other methods a stylist can use to match balayage consistency, hand painting your hair color will result in unique, dimensional results that no other highlighting technique could achieve.
What kind of maintenance does a balayage require?
Balayages require very little maintenance compared to other hair coloring techniques. Since the color is swept onto the hair using a brush, it blends easily and doesn’t require touchups at the same frequency. Usually, you can expect to need to touch up your balayage every 6–12 weeks, depending on personal preference and how quickly your hair grows.
How is a balayage applied?
Balayages are applied using thick bleach painted onto the surface of thin sections of the hair throughout the whole head. Only the very ends of the hair are saturated with product, as that’s where you want the color to be lightest when blending from root to ends.
Who can get a balayage?
Balayage tends to work for anyone with hair that isn’t cropped short. It will be best to check with your stylist to see if this technique achieves the desired result.
What’s the difference between balayage and ombre?
All balayages help achieve an ombre look, but not all ombres are balayages. Ombres tend to have a starker contrast between light and dark sections of the hair and are not always blended in the same way. Sometimes the lower blending amounts are intentional to help achieve a more edgy look, especially when using fashion colors.
How long does it take to get a balayage?
If you don’t want a heavy balayage that drastically changes the tone of your hair, the application process may take as little as 45 minutes. The application can take several hours for longer or thicker hair or styles requiring a more drastic change. That doesn’t include processing time and styling afterward!
So, How Much Does a Balayage Cost?
Numerous factors can affect how much a balayage will cost you, ranging from how your hair is before the process begins, the skill level of the stylist, and the area you live in.
No matter the cost of your service, a balayage will get you beautiful results with less maintenance than many other coloring techniques. Happy coloring!