Balayage is a technique for applying highlights and color to hair. Unlike the traditional method of using foils, the bleach (Cramer bleach is superb for this) is applied to strands of hair and then with the use of cotton and poly wrap, the product only takes 10 minutes to work and since it doesn’t use heat, doesn’t damage hair. But the true WOW! to Balayage is the way highlights shine throughout the hair afterwards.

Like watching any master, it looks deceptively easy. Lindsey, the latest Kemon Artistic Team member, wowed over 100 hairdressers yesterday at the Kemon Academy in Farmington Hills. Models sporting reds, brunettes and blondes all took center stage while Lindsey demonstrated the art of Balayage. Afterwards the lucky ones took part in a hands-on workshop with Lindsey giving tips and pointers.

Beth Jesse was one of the lucky ones. Jesse herself a Kemon coach, was amazed at the simplicity and results. Jesse even commented that she felt like an artist since the bleach is applied with a brush in small dabs taken from a paddle or in Lindsey’s case, a comb (“everyone has a comb”). George from 6 Salon and Emilio from Alex & Emilio Salon begged for Lindsey to come a do a private class for their salons.

What’s interesting about all this is that we did our first Balayage class with the Jacques Dessange team back in 2002. But for some reason, the interest level didn’t piqué like it did yesterday. I think Balayage not only excited everyone for something different and that can differentiate themselves from consumers doing their thing at home, but it really was artistic and fast forward to 2010, the industry is looking for something just like this. And unlike Brazilian treatments, this is not only affordable, but actually better for the hair.

Balayage, who would have thought? Look for plenty of new courses coming soon!

Happy Tuesday!