Balayage, Ombre, Foilayage… Help!

With balayage still one of the most popular hair colour trends, it’s easy to get confused by all the terminology, balayage, ombre, foilayage… what does it all mean?

Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to ask for at your next colour appointment.

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What is balayage?

Balayage is a technique for highlighting hair. The colour is hand-painted in soft, sweeping motions to create a graduated, natural-looking effect, think effortless, sun-kissed hair.

The word balayage actually comes from the French term “balayer,” which means “to sweep.”

Because it’s a technique, balayage can be customised in so many ways:

• Light and subtle for a soft, sun-lit glow
• Heavier for a bolder, brighter blonde
• Painted from root to tip or focused through the mid-lengths and ends

It’s beautifully flexible, and no two balayage results ever look exactly the same.

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What is foilayage?

Foilayage is a variation of balayage. Instead of leaving the colour to develop in open air, we wrap sections in foil to help trap heat and achieve maximum lift (lighter results).

Balayage is traditionally open-air, but some hair types need a little extra warmth and coverage to reach that perfect shade. Foilayage gives you the best of both worlds, the soft, blended look of balayage with the brightness of traditional highlights.

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What is ombre?

Ombre isn’t a technique, it’s a style or end result. It describes the finished look where darker roots gradually blend into lighter ends.

The contrast can be as subtle or as dramatic as you like, depending on the look you’re going for. Ombre shades can also be cool, warm, or neutral, it’s all about the tone and transition.

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Katie’s top tip 💡

When you come in for your appointment at MAYFIVE Hair, bring along a few reference photos. This really helps your colourist understand the look you’re aiming for.

When choosing your inspo images, pay attention to two things:

1. The colour and its tone – is it warm and golden, or cool and ashy?
2. The placement of the colour – is the lightness focused around the face, through the ends, or all over?

Being clear about both helps your stylist create a bespoke colour that truly suits you.

Whether you’re dreaming of a soft balayage, a brighter foilayage, or a bold ombre, our team at MAYFIVE Hair in Chiswick can help you find your perfect match.