What is 3d balayage: everything you need to know about the colour trend

From babylights to ecaille and traditional balayage, there are some colour services that stand the test of time. With very some tweaks old techniques turn into new trends that your clients go crazy for, and that's exactly what has happened with 3D balayage. The latest extension to the balayage colour service is becoming a huge favourite with clients looking for a natural colour with a luxe feel. It creates a lived-in look and helps finer hair appear thickers through the clever application technique. If you're not familiar with the look it's definitely time you get acquainted as it's the perfect colour services for the uncertainty of 2020. If you're working with your client's natural colour palette it'll grow out well like traditional balayage if they can't make it back to the salon on time for their next appointment. In contrast to the chunky highlights trend that needs regular touch ups.

So what exactly is 3D balayage?

"A 3D balayage is more of a multi-tonal, dimensional use of colours, this gives more depth and contrast to the hair, visually making the hair look thicker and more luxurious," says Jack Baxter, artistic director at Bad Apple Hair.

How is it different to traditional balayage?

For 3D balayage it's all about using a multiple shades. "For this technique it’s crucial to use more than one colour, maybe two or three colours, and manipulating different tones to enhance face shape and dimensions. This complements the hair and is softer but powerful," explains Jack. "With a classic balayage the technique is usually using one colour or lightener which gives a flatter or almost an ombré effect." Lead image @itskatecoburn_liverpool via @badapplehair on Instagram