Balay... who?
One of the things that can ruin someones salon experience is not being able to vocalize what they want their stylist to do. Although, it’s important for the stylist to be able to depict an idea of what their client may want through a thorough consultation, it still wouldn’t hurt for clients to have a small understanding of some trendy hair verbiage. Here’s a few words and descriptions that can make your salon trip a bit easier.
Balayage- This word is probably the most mispronounced word in the hair world. Yet, every stylist knows what you are trying to say so don’t get too caught up on the pronunciation. Hell, I’ve probably said it wrong myself before. Balayage is a french word that literally translates into “sweeping” which describes the technique used to apply color or bleach to the hair. This sweeping technique creates a gradual transition from dark to light at any color level. Most people confuse this term with something that describes a specific color but, it is simply a technique. So, someone can have balayage highlights on brown hair and someone can have balayage highlights on blonde hair as well.
Airy- This word is used to describe how you might want your style to look. Any hair cut can be styled to look “airy”. This is when the hair is slightly undone, looks light and flowy as opposed to heavy and flat. This look is usually achieved using a finishing texture spray or hairspray.
Blunt- When the lines in your haircut are dramatic, the perimeter or length of your hair is all sitting on the same line. Blunt looks are usually described as more of an edgier look.
Piecey- This can be similar to airy, but even more specific. With this look, you can see the separation in different parts of the hair whether you are describing color placement or the style of the hair. This look can be created using some hair paste or cream at the end of your styling process.
Textured- This is when the hair has some grip to it, and isn’t so soft or limp. Most times, more textured hair will hold volume better. This is why stylist push the importance of using texture sprays when styling someones hair because that will help your style last longer as opposed to making it feel heavier as some people may think.
Polished- Hair that looks sleek or shiny. Everything describing the hair is “put together”. This would be the opposite of airy or piecey.
Rinse/Gloss/Toner-These terms are all used interchangeably. These all describe a service that is usually performed at the shampoo bowl as a short or add on service but can be susceptible to being put on at the chair based on the stylists’ preference. A rinse or gloss is usually used to darken the hair that’s faded between color services, leaving it with a shiny finish. This can also be colorless (clear) if you’re solely looking for shine. A toner describes the same service but is used to shift the tone in hair that has been prelightened or naturally lightened due to sun exposure or heat damage.