How to Achieve the Perfect Face Framing Balayage

June 29, 2023

Are you looking for a hair coloring technique that will beautifully frame your face and enhance your features? Look no further than face framing balayage! This trending technique combines the artistry of Balayage with strategically placed pieces of lighter or brighter tones that add dimension and highlight key areas around the face. These can range from a subtle sun kissed look to a bold pop of color. Achieving the perfect face framing Balayage requires planning, proper technique, and attention to detail. Let’s delve into this topic so you can become a face framing Balayage pro.

 

What Is Face Framing Balayage?

Creating the perfect face framing Balayage takes much more work than the obvious process of simply placing highlights around the face to create a soft, sun-kissed glow. This is where a thorough color consultation comes into play. It’s essential that you assess a client’s hair and evaluate whether the hair color change is compatible with their previous color history and base color, and that you are both on the same page regarding the desired outcome.

The term face frame is different to everybody and this can make this technique a lot of fun but also lead to, shall we say, ‘creative differences’? The best way to avoid this is to simply ask your client what face framing Balayage means to them. It’s important to remember that as a stylist your perception of art and key words such as ‘soft’ ‘subtle’ and ‘blended’ can differ massively from a client’s. You may expect ‘blended’ to equal babylights or a subtle sweeping blend. However, a client may expect bold slices more in line with a ‘Money Piece’. If they are unsure, provide some inspirational images to help guide them.

 

Preparing the Hair

To achieve optimal results and no unwanted surprises, preparation is key. Follow these pro tips to ensure a flawless face framing balayage.

  • Clarify: A clean canvas is always best for the color to adhere to. However, clarifying the hair before a color service is not always possible, so make sure you advise your client to cleanse their hair with a premium clarifying shampoo a day or two before the service to help eliminate any residue, oils, or product buildup and ensure even application.
  • Assess: Take a moment to re-assess the hair’s condition, strength, texture, and porosity and to identify any potential challenges. Taking the time to complete a strand test will help you determine the ideal processing time, level of lift, and potential toning requirements. This will enable you to tailor your approach, address any concerns, and provide appropriate treatments to help strengthen and protect the hair before and during the color process.

 

Creating Your Face Framing Balayage

Once you’ve established the client’s vision it’s time to get creative! Here are some pro tips to help guide you on the face framing balayage technique so that you can confidently achieve this trending look!

  • Strategically section off the hair focusing on the front hairline and part. This is where the face framing effect will be most prominent. Adapt the size and thickness of the sections based on the desired effect so that you can achieve a balanced and flattering result.
  • Utilize a classic freehand painting technique or take it a step further with a technique called Foilayage to apply the lightener or hair color. The key focus is to create a seamless transition from the lightened pieces to the natural hair, producing a diffused gradient effect that beautifully frames the client’s face.
  • Once the color is complete, it’s time to process. Monitor the color development closely as the development time will vary depending on the lightening product and desired level of lift. Prioritize the health and integrity of the hair and avoid over-processing.
  • Once the desired level of lightness is achieved, the hair will likely need to be toned and neutralized to avoid any unwanted undertones and to achieve the desired shade. This step is where you can create a truly bespoke color. Will you go for a natural shade such as a creamy or golden hue, or perhaps for a fashion tone? Whatever the choice, this step ensures a harmonious and balanced result.
  • For the final step, thoroughly cleanse and rinse the hair. Then apply a nourishing conditioner before revealing the next stage to the client during styling!

How to Style and Maintain Your Hair to Showcase Your Balayage

To style and maintain your face framing Balayage follow these pro tips. This way, your  Balayage will continue to stand out and stay vibrant long after you leave the salon!

  • Enhance dimension with texturizing styling products.
  • Showcase color transitions with loose waves or braided hairstyles.
  • Display your Balayage with half-up styles or messy updos.
  • Highlight different sections by experimenting with various parts.
  • Add flair with hair clips and accessories for extra style points.
  • Preserve vibrancy and care with color-safe professional products.
  • Protect from sun exposure, heat damage, and external aggressors.
  • Accentuate the Balayage with curls or loose waves.
  • Maintain shape and prevent split ends with regular trims.
  • Schedule color touch-ups in the salon with Color Excel Gloss by Revlonissimo™ or at home with Nutri Color™ Filters to maintain the desired look.

 

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