Balayage, Ombré, Sombré...You've heard the buzzwords, but what do they mean? Let us give you the scoop before your next trip to the salon!

Looking to add dimension and shine or accentuate that gorgeous face of yours? Adding color is the way to go. But you may not know exactly where to start. Balayage, Ombré, Sombré – it can be hard to explain to your stylist exactly what new look you’re going for. Here, get the scoop so your next consultation is a breeze.

Balayage

Balayage by Danica at The Grand Salon in Dublin

The word “Balayage” comes from a French word meaning “to sweep.” Color is painted directly into the hair and is placed throughout to add depth and dimension.  Your hair will come out looking like you’ve been soaking up the sun all summer long! Learn more about our beautiful balayage services.

Ombré

Ombré by Blake at The Grand Salon in Dublin

Ombré is a the gradual lightening of hair, and is French for “shaded” or “shadow.” The ombré hair color transition typically starts darker at the roots and becomes lighter toward the ends of the hair. Your ombré can be as striking or subtle as you’d like. Here’s to trying something new!

Sombré

Sombré by Danica at The Grand Salon in Dublin

Speaking of a subtle ombré, let me introduce you to the sombré. You guessed it, sombré stands for subtle ombré. This style is typically found on blonde hair, but can be achieved on any hair color. If you’re ready to switch your look up for Summer, try a sombré!

Shadow Root

Shadow Root by Parker at The Grand Salon in Dublin

Intentionally making your roots darker may seem crazy, but there’s definitely a method to the madness. 😉 Think darker roots with a softer, more subtle weaving of color throughout the length. This will actually make the rest of your color appear brighter and really POP. Plus, there will be a less dramatic difference as your natural roots grow.

Babylights

Babylights by Danica at The Grand Salon in Dublin

Babylights are subtle, delicate highlights. Have you ever looked at children’s hair in the summer and been jealous of their gorgeous color? This look imitates the gradual lightening of sun-kissed summer hair. The application is similar to traditional highlights, but color is applied to much smaller sections of hair at a time. If you want a subtle change, or to add a little more dimension to your balayage and shadow root, opt for babylights.

Bronde

Bronde Hair Color by Giselle at The Grand Salon in Dublin

If blonde is “too blonde,” give bronde a try. This bronzy golden hair color contrasts blonde and brown colors to give you gorgeous dimension.

Tortoise Shell

Tortoise Shell Hair Color by Jordan at The Grand Salon in Gahanna/New Albany

Ecaille hair color, also known as tortoise shell hair, is a seamless blend of colors featuring caramel and golden highlights. One of the biggest benefits of ecaille is that if matched closely with your natural color your hair will grow into an ombré, giving the impression of sun-kissed hair. It’s all about elevating that beautiful hair you were born with! Learn more about this hot hair trend.

Now, you may be thinking, how am I going to choose between ombré, sombré and everything in between? That’s where we come in! During every appointment we offer a complimentary consultation where we’ll discuss your hair type and style to determine what’s best for YOU. We’ll also discuss how to maintain your lovely locks and just how much time is recommended before you head back in for a refresh. If you’re ready to freshen up your look for Summer, get scheduled today!

Get Scheduled With Our Professionals

Schedule with Skye at The Grand Salon in Dublin.

Schedule with Danica at The Grand Salon in Dublin.

Schedule with Blake at The Grand Salon in Dublin.

Schedule with Parker at The Grand Salon in Dublin.

Schedule with Giselle at The Grand Salon in Dublin.

Schedule with Jordan at The Grand Salon in Gahanna/New Albany.