Balayage

At Faking It Hairdressing and Beauty, our bespoke balayage blends light and depth exactly where the sun would hit resulting in soft face-framing, seamless ribbons and a glossy, expensive finish. We map placement to your cut, skin tone and lifestyle, keeping roots low-maintenance and the ends luminous. Perfect if you want brightness without harsh lines, or you’re transitioning from old colour and need a smarter, softer plan.

Sun-kissed balayage on medium-length blonde hair with soft face frame and glossy finish at Faking It, Grange Park, Northampton.
Three women with long wavy hair in lace white tops pose together in studioPortrait of woman with shoulder-length wavy brown hair and caramel highlights on gray background

Frequently Asked Questions

What is balayage and how is it different from highlights?
Balayage is hand-painted colour placed on the surface for a soft, diffused blend with a natural root. Foil highlights start closer to the scalp for brighter, more uniform lift. Balayage gives a sun-lit look with softer grow-out; foils deliver higher contrast and maximum brightness. We can hybrid both for tailored results.
How often will I need maintenance?
Most balayage clients return every 10–16 weeks for a refresh or tonal gloss. Because the root is lived-in, you won’t see a hard line. We’ll schedule mini face-frame top-ups or gloss appointments between bigger lightening sessions to keep tone fresh and hair healthy.
Will balayage work on dark or previously coloured hair?
Yes with a plan. Dark or box-dyed hair may lift warm and can require staged sessions. We’ll strand test, protect with bond-builder, and tone intelligently to achieve the target shade without compromising condition.
How do you protect hair health during lightening?
We use bond-building additives, controlled saturation and low-and-slow processing. Afterward, a custom gloss seals the cuticle and refines tone. We’ll send you home with sulphate-free care, heat protection and a mask schedule to maintain strength and shine.
What should I book if I’m new to balayage?
Book a consultation or “Balayage + Toner + Cut/Finish.” Bring hair photos you love and those you don’t placement matters. We’ll discuss lift potential, upkeep, and budget, then create a phased plan if needed.