What to Do after Balayage Grows Out? How to Manage?

What to do after balayage grows out? In this case, you had better lighten up or go darker the grown-out balayage. Jen Hair will provide you with a detailed guideline about this.

The allure of balayage is found in its ease of upkeep. But even the most carefree among us might eventually tire of the look, especially as it grows out. So, what to do after balayage grows out? Should you chase the receding highlights, or embrace a darker shift? This guide explores both options to help you decide what’s best for your mane.

What is Balayage?

Before discovering how to manage grown-out balayage, we had better figure out the definition of balayage as well as general knowledge about this chic hairstyle. 

The Definition of Balayage

To know what to do after balayage grows out, let’s figure out the definition of it first. Balayage involves manually applying hair color in a freehand manner to achieve a seamless blend from the natural hair color to the chosen hair color. In the balayage method, hairdressers begin applying color to the hair from its center rather than from the scalp. The hair dye is applied in a manner that the initial base color stays consistent from the scalp to the tips, while the subsequent, progressively lighter shade replaces it at the ends.

The Longevity of Balayage on Your Hair

The hand-painted balayage lasts between 22 and 28 weeks for normal hair growth. It lasts 16 to 20 weeks if you have a tendency to grow your hair quickly. The length of time your hair looks balayaged also greatly depends on how well it is maintained. 

Balayage can also last up to 28 to 30 weeks if you’re not using heated straighteners or curlers and harsh haircare products like hairsprays, dry shampoos, and style gels. However, the balayage will only last 10 to 12 weeks if you treat your hair harshly and wash it every day with shampoos and conditioners that include chemicals and parabens.   

Besides, there are some factors can influence its longevity:

• Hair Type and Color: Virgin hair tends to hold color better than hair that’s been previously colored. Darker hair also shows balayage for a longer duration than lighter hair.
• Sun Exposure: Sun is a natural lightener, so frequent sun exposure can accelerate fading, especially for lighter balayage highlights.
• Washing Habits: Frequent washing strips hair of color-preserving oils. Try extending washes and using dry shampoo to maintain vibrancy.
• Heat Styling: Hot tools can damage color-treated hair. Minimize heat styling and use heat protectant spray when necessary.
• Hair Care Products: Using color-safe shampoo, conditioner, and color-depositing treatments specifically formulated for color-treated hair can significantly extend the life of your balayage.

What Does Grown Out Balayage Look Like?

Balayage’s magic lies in its natural, lived-in look. But what occurs as time progresses? Here’s a peek at what your balayage will likely look like after 6 months and even a year:

Balayage after 6 Months

After 6 months, here are some vivid characteristics that will appear with your hair:

• Visible Roots: Your natural hair color will start to show at the roots, creating a clear contrast. However, thanks to the soft blending inherent to balayage, the line won’t be harsh.
• Dimensional Delight: The lighter, highlighted sections painted mid-shaft to ends will likely still be vibrant, adding richness and dimension to your hair.
• Low-Maintenance Appeal: The beauty of balayage is that even with some root growth, it retains its natural, effortless vibe. You may not feel the immediate need for a touch-up.

Balayage after 1 Year

After 1 year, the condition of your balayage will become worse:

• More Prominent Roots: By now, your natural hair color will be more noticeable at the roots. The line of demarcation may be slightly more apparent, but still softer than with traditional highlights.
• Subtle Lightening: The previously highlighted sections may have subtly lightened further, especially with sun exposure.
• Natural Allure: The overall effect leans towards a sun-kissed, bronde look. It might be time for a touch-up if you want to refresh the lighter highlights, but the grown-out balayage can still be quite flattering.

Ultimate Guide: What to Do after Balayage Grows Out?

So how to deal with grown-out balayage? Suggest those options below with Jen Hair!

Lighten Up

If you’re attached to the sun-kissed dimension balayage provides, here’s how to lighten up your grown-out look:

• Balayage Touch-Up: This is the most common approach. Your stylist will reapply balayage highlights, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends to blend seamlessly with your existing highlights. They might also tone your hair to neutralize any brassiness.
• Babylights: Adding even finer highlights, especially near the root area, can create a more natural-looking transition and subtly blend the grown-out sections.
• Highlights Throughout: For a more dramatic change, discuss adding traditional highlights throughout your hair. This can be particularly effective if your natural hair color is significantly darker than your balayage highlights.

Important Considerations When Lightening:

• Hair Health: Bleaching, a necessary step for lightening, can damage hair. Ensure your hair is healthy enough to handle further processing.
• Maintenance Uptick: Frequent touch-ups might be needed to maintain the lighter look, potentially increasing salon visits.

Go Darker

What to do after balayage grows out if you crave a change or find upkeep for lighter hair daunting? Consider going darker:

• Reverse Balayage: This technique involves applying darker tones to the mid-lengths and ends, creating a subtle gradient that blends with your natural root color. It adds depth and richness while minimizing harsh root lines.
• All-Over Color: Opting for a single, all-over hair color can completely transform your look. This approach works well if your natural hair color is significantly darker than your balayage highlights.

Considerations for Transitioning to a Darker Lifestyle:

• Highlight Removal: Depending on the desired darkness and your current color, some stylists might recommend removing existing highlights before applying the new color.
• Commitment Factor: Going darker is generally a more permanent change than lightening. Consider the long-term commitment before diving in.

How to Look After Hair after Balayage

Balayage’s sun-kissed magic is undeniable, but keeping it looking its best requires some TLC. Here’s a comprehensive guide about what to do after balayage grows out as well as tips for hair care routine. 

Gentle Cleansing is Key:

• Wash Wisely: Avoid washing your hair every day. Frequent washes strip away natural oils that protect your color. Aim for 2-3 washes per week.
• Color-Safe is the Mantra: Invest in shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are gentler and help prevent fading.

Beat the Fade:

• Sun’s Not Your Friend: Sun exposure can accelerate color fading. Apply a leave-in conditioner that contains SPF or don a hat when you’re outside.
• Heat with Caution: Minimize heat styling and always use a heat protectant spray to shield your locks from damage.

Extra Love for Highlighted Strands:

• Leave-in Love: Leave-in conditioners specifically formulated for highlighted hair can provide extra hydration and prevent dryness.
• Purple Power: For blondes with balayage, a purple shampoo can help neutralize brassy tones and keep highlights cool. Use it once or twice a week, alternating with your regular color-safe shampoo.

Salon Savvy:

• Regular Trims: Split ends can travel up the hair shaft, making it look dull. Arrange consistent haircuts (every 6-8 weeks) to get rid of split ends and maintain the health of your hair.
• Touch-Up Timing: Discuss a touch-up schedule with your stylist. Depending on your hair growth rate and desired look, touch-ups might be needed every 8-12 weeks.

By following these simple tips, you can maintain the vibrancy and health of your balayage hair, keeping it looking its best for longer. Remember, a happy head of hair starts with a healthy routine!

FAQs

Here are some frequent questions and answers which are related to the question “what to do after balayage grows out”. Let’s check with us!

How to go back to natural hair after balayage?

To transition back to your natural hair color after balayage, you have a few options:

• Patience and time: You can simply let your balayage grow out naturally without any additional color treatments. This process requires patience as you wait for your natural hair to grow and gradually replace the balayage highlights.
• Color correction: If you prefer a quicker transition, you can visit a professional hairstylist for a color correction. They can match your natural hair color and apply a dye or toner to blend the balayage with your roots. This process may involve multiple sessions depending on the contrast between the balayage and your natural color.
• Haircut: Another option is to opt for a haircut that removes the balayage-dyed ends. By cutting off the colored portions of your hair, you can achieve a quicker return to your natural hair color.

Can I let my balayage grow out completely?

Yes, you can let your balayage grow out completely if you prefer a low-maintenance approach and want to embrace your natural hair color. This means allowing your hair to grow without any additional color treatments or touch-ups.

 However, keep in mind that during the grow-out process, there may be a noticeable contrast between the balayage and your natural color. This transition can take several months to a year, depending on your hair growth rate.

Should I cut my hair during the balayage grow-out process?

Whether or not to cut your hair during the balayage grow-out process is a personal choice. So what to do after balayage grows out? Cutting your hair can help remove the colored ends, resulting in a quicker transition to your natural hair color. It can also give your hair a fresh and healthy appearance. 

However, cutting your hair is not necessary if you prefer to maintain the length or if you’re comfortable with the gradual blending of the balayage with your natural color. Speak with your hairstylist to discuss the best haircut options that align with your preferences and overall hair goals.

Can I dye my hair a different color after balayage grows out?

Yes, you can dye your hair a different color after your balayage grows out. Once the balayage has fully grown out, you have the flexibility to change your hair color according to your preferences. 

Whether you want to go darker, lighter, or try a completely different shade, consult with a professional hairstylist who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your desired color transformation. They can assess your hair’s condition and recommend the best approach to minimize damage and achieve the desired results.

Wrapping Up

What to do after balayage grows out? This guide has covered both going for a darker, richer look or lightening up your balayage to keep its sunny warmth. The best course of action ultimately relies on your hair type and personal style.

No matter which direction you choose, consulting with your stylist is key. Jen Hair can give you useful advice, recommend the most suitable technique, and advise you on the maintenance involved as well as provide you with a world of beautiful hair wings. 

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