Let's talk about blonde balayage.By now, you will have heard of balayage. We saw the hair colour technique first gain traction in the early 2010's as celebrities moved away fromombre hair or dip dye and leant into a more natural-looking sun-kissed finish. Most celebrities - think Jessica Alba, Jennifer Lawrence and Drew Barrymore have all tried the look over the years, and erred more on the side of blonde balayage, though other hues do come into play.
What is balayage?
Balayage refers to the colouring technique used to achieve the sun-kissed finish in question. The actual word means ‘to sweep’. The hair colourist uses a brush to sweep the hair dye through strands, rather than working through lengths with foils.
Balayage highlights are typically a few shades lighter than your base colour - pros advise you go no more than three shades lighter than your base colour for a natural-looking finish - adding natural dimension and depth to your hair.
Is it suitable for all hair types?
Yes, absolutely and because the dye stays clear of your roots, there's no need for expensive monthly touch-up appointments.
How long is the balayage process?
This can vary based on the look you're after and the length and density of your hair. If you want partial balayage this can take your stylist as little as half an hour to achieve.
How do I maintain a blonde balayage look?
L'Oréal Professionel Parisrecommend using gentle ingredients when it comes to balayage haircare, and to avoid strong surfactants that strip colour. As dyed hair is more prone to dryness, keeping the hair moisturised is a must and this can be done through intensive conditioning and hair masks. Blonde sections will also benefit from purple shampoo, which tones down warm, brassy notes.
Craving a blonde balayage revamp? Scroll through our gallery of celebrity inspiration
9 Blonde Balayage Hair Looks To Screenshot Now - Grazia 2023
1 of 9Blonde Honeycomb
This incredible 'blonde honeycomb' hue belongs to Made In Chelsea's Melissa Tattum, who visited Samantha Cusick London for a summer colour refresh. Described as a 'soft lived-in blonde', the shade a perfect pick-me-up for warmer days. (Image: @samanthacusicklondon)
2 of 9Caramel Melt
The subtle blend of both deep brown and blonde add so much depth and dimension. Instagram: @lilyaldridge.
3 of 9Honey Stripes
Margot Robbie can always be counted on to serve up blonde balayage inspiration.
4 of 9Chestnut To Bronze
Starting with dark roots at the top and fading into a soft honey brown at the bottom. This combo of dark and light brown is gorg.
5 of 9Bronze Balayage
These bronze strands perfectly frame Jasmines face. Instagram @jastookes.
6 of 9Blonde Ribbons
Light ash tones towards the ends with very thin ribbons of blonde throughout to achieve Lucy Hale's unique and sexy style. Instagram: @lucyhale
7 of 9Natural-Look Balayage
Selena Gomez's look is for those who want a drastic change, but caught in the sun this colour is beautiful. Instagram @selenagomez
8 of 9SJP Balayage
SJP was rocking balayage long before it was a thing. Instagram @sarahjessicaparker
9 of 9Red Carpet Ready Balayage
If you want to look red carpet ready, Rihanna's blonde balayage look is for you.