Balayage 101: What Makes It Unique

There’s something about balayage that never goes out of style. Maybe it’s the way it mimics the sun’s natural touch, or how seamlessly it grows out without the drama of obvious roots. From effortless beachy waves to rich, multidimensional brunettes, balayage has evolved far beyond a fleeting beauty trend—it’s become a go-to colour technique for those chasing that “I woke up like this” hair. As salons across the world see a rise in requests for soft, face-framing blends and tonal depth, it’s clear: balayage is in its main character era.

When it comes to hair colour that looks effortless yet elevated, few techniques rival the beauty of balayage—and few stylists master it quite like Parisa Rezaei. A colour specialist with over a decade of experience, Parisa has journeyed from her roots in Iran to Istanbul’s high-fashion salons, and now to Dubai’s renowned Salon 971, where her name is quickly becoming synonymous with transformative, sun-kissed strands.

I had the pleasure of experiencing Parisa’s artistry first-hand, and it was clear from the moment I sat in her chair that this was more than a routine appointment—it was a tailored, almost intuitive creative process. With her warm presence and sharp eye for detail, Parisa brings a rare combination of technical precision and personal care to her work.

In this exclusive conversation, she shares her expert insights into balayage—what makes it so special, how to make it your own, and why the right colourist makes all the difference.

Balayage 101: What Makes It Unique

“Balayage is actually a French word meaning ‘to sweep,’” Parisa begins, explaining the subtle difference between this beloved technique and more traditional approaches like foils or ombré. “We don’t use foils because we want to avoid harsh lines between the colours. If you’re really skilled, you don’t even need a brush—you can use your hands to blend for the most natural look.”

It’s this artistry that has made balayage a go-to for those seeking dimension without the maintenance of classic highlights.

Is Balayage Right for You?

Parisa is the first to emphasize that balayage isn’t a one-size-fits-all technique. “You have to consider your current hair colour, whether it’s natural or previously coloured, your hair texture, and your face shape,” she advises.

Her approach is deeply personalized—from assessing the interplay of natural tones to understanding how colour complements each client’s unique style and lifestyle.

Tailoring Colour to Skin Tone and Hair Type

When it comes to customizing balayage, Parisa is a master of nuance. “For darker and olive skin tones, I love using rich, warm shades or fashion colours. Lighter skin tones can handle a mix of warm and cool tones—again, it depends on the natural hair colour.”

She also points out that application techniques vary with texture. “The way you move your hands while applying colour will give different results on curly versus straight hair,” she explains.

Seasonal Shifts and Colour Trends

Just as our wardrobes shift with the seasons, so should our hair. “In summer, people tend to go for honey, caramel, and light blonde tones. Winter is more flexible—both cool tones like ash and pearl, and warm tones like golden or chocolate work beautifully,” says Parisa, noting that using a quality colour brand like Schwarzkopf allows for that versatility.

As for what’s trending? “This year, soft blends of light blondes, caramel, and honey are everywhere. Copper and deep brunette balayage are also in demand. But no matter the trend, the goal is always shine and natural dimension.”

Balayage Aftercare: It’s More Than Just Products

Maintaining balayage requires thoughtful aftercare—and a little self-love. “Purple shampoo is great for blondes, and everyone should use sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoos and conditioners. Deep conditioners and heat protectants are also musts,” Parisa advises.

“But don’t underestimate how important it is to take care of yourself—eating well, staying hydrated, sleeping enough. Hair health starts from within.”

First Time? Here’s What to Know

If you’re considering balayage for the first time, Parisa stresses the importance of experience. “It really depends on where you’re starting from, so getting a proper consultation is key. Balayage isn’t just another colour service—it’s a technique that needs precision.”

Low Maintenance, High Impact

One reason balayage has become so beloved? It grows out beautifully. “You don’t need constant touch-ups. I recommend a trim every one to two months, and a refresh every six to eight months to maintain the technique,” says Parisa.

Stylist Secrets: Must-Have Products

To keep your colour looking its best, Parisa swears by a mix of essentials:– Tailored shampoos– Deep nourishing masks– Leave-in conditioners– Argan and castor oils– Natural options like rosemary-based products

“Each one plays a role in keeping your hair healthy and vibrant,” she adds.

The Challenge—and Joy—of Balayage

What’s the most difficult part of perfecting balayage? “Creating a balanced, beautiful design based on the client’s hair and vision. It’s different every time,” Parisa says. “But that’s also the most rewarding part—it keeps me inspired.”

Can Short Hair Go Sun-Kissed?

While balayage is most commonly seen on medium to long hair, Parisa believes the future holds more possibilities. “For very short hair, it’s tricky because there’s less space to blend. But with evolving tools and techniques, we might soon be able to create stunning looks even on shorter styles.”

With a deep understanding of colour theory, a talent for working across hair types, and an eye for subtle elegance, Parisa Rezaei is one of those rare stylists who makes you feel like you're in expert hands from the very first consultation. And in a city where beauty is always evolving, her work is a refreshing reminder that timeless style will always shine through.