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Ombre vs. Balayage

Ombre vs. Balayage: What’s the difference?

If you’re ready to change up your haircolor and you can’t decide between Ombre and Balayage because, well, you can’t know the difference between Balayage and Ombre: you are not alone. We admit, it can be hard to understand what sets them apart and which one is right for you. In partnership with Redken Artists Jaclyn Harwood and Twylla Jane, we’ll  help you decode the difference in the ultimate match up: Ombre vs. Balayage.

What is Balayage?

Balayage is all about how the color is applied. The word Balayage originates from the French term “to sweep.” With Balayage, not necessarily all the ends will be affected and the transition between dark and light will be much longer and more natural looking

before and after brunette balayage from Hair Cuttery

What is Ombre?

Ombre on long brunette from Hair Cuttery

Ombre is a haircolor technique where all the ends are going be affected and the transition from the deeper roots and light ends is going to be pretty short. The definition for Ombre is the French word for “color that is shaded or graduated in tone”.

What does the difference between Ombre and Balayage mean for me?

The good news is that anyone can try either look, depending on their desired result. The two techniques can even be used together on any haircolor for any desired haircolor. Choosing which one is right for you really depends on the look you’re trying to achieve. Whether you’re looking for a blonde, brown, red, rose gold or even vivid color look, your HC Stylist should be able to work with you on either technique to create the color effect you’re going for. “The creative possibilities are endless,” Jaclyn says.

How can I make my ombre or balayage last?

Keeping your hair protected during Ombre or Balayage is vital for achieving and maintaining the color. We strongly recommend adding REDKEN pH-Bonder to your service to protect and strengthen hair during the lifting process.  When your hair is colored in any way, it changes the pH balance of your scalp. You should talk to your HC Stylist about what’s best to keep your hair feeling and looking healthy. Twylla recommends asking your stylist about REDKEN Color Extend Bonder for maximum benefits.

This post originally appeared on the The Redken Blog and is published on the Hair Cuttery blog with their permission as part of our ongoing partnership.

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