Top 5 Things to Know Before Getting Highlights or Balayage

Thinking about adding some dimension to your hair with highlights or balayage? Whether you're after a soft sun-kissed glow or a bold blonde transformation, lightening services can elevate your entire look. But before you book that appointment, here are a few things you should know—especially if it’s your first time.

As a hairstylist in Palm Coast specializing in blonding, gray blending, and natural color work, I want to make sure you feel confident and informed before we begin your hair journey.

1. Know the Difference: Highlights vs. Balayage

While both techniques lighten the hair, they’re not the same:

• Highlights use foils for a more uniform, brighter effect from roots to ends.

• Balayage gives a soft, natural-looking blend of lighter tones that looks effortless and sun-kissed—with a grow-out so seamless, it still looks beautiful months later.

Choosing the right method depends on your desired look, hair type, and maintenance level. During your consultation, we’ll figure out what works best for you.

2. Healthy Hair Is the Priority

Lightening your hair is a chemical process—but it doesn’t have to mean damage. I always prep and protect your hair using professional-grade, science-backed products like Davines and K18, which help maintain strength, softness, and shine throughout the process. Your hair health comes first—always.

3. It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

There’s no “one formula” that fits everyone. I custom-blend color based on your skin tone, current hair color, and hair history. That’s why consultations are so important, especially if you’ve previously used box dye or had other chemical treatments.

4. Maintenance Matters

If you're looking for low-maintenance color, balayage is a great option—many of my clients go 3+ months between visits. On the other hand, traditional highlights often need a refresh every 8-12 weeks. I’ll help you decide what fits your lifestyle best, and we’ll build a custom maintenance plan together.

5. Home Care Makes a Huge Difference

Color-treated hair needs special love at home. I’ll recommend the right shampoo, conditioner, and treatments tailored to your hair needs. Using salon-quality products (not drugstore ones) will keep your color vibrant and your hair strong until your next visit.

Ready to Love Your Color?

If you’re in the Palm Coast area and thinking about balayage, highlights, or just a fresh new look, I’d love to help.
✨ Book your appointment now or schedule a consultation to see what’s possible for your hair.

Let’s create something beautiful—without compromising your hair health.

How to Maintain Your Hair Color Between Salon Visits

(By Cristiana Wallace – Palm Coast Hairstylist)

Beautiful hair color doesn’t end the day you leave the salon — it's an ongoing journey.
When you invest in your hair, I want you to enjoy that fresh, vibrant feeling for as long as possible! 🌿
Here are my top tips to help you maintain your hair color, keep your hair healthy, and feel confident between visits.

1. Choose the Right Products

The products you use at home make a huge difference in how long your color lasts.
I always recommend using professional, color-safe shampoos and conditioners — free of harsh sulfates and packed with nourishing ingredients.
If you’re unsure what’s best for your specific hair type, feel free to ask me during your visit or reach out anytime. I'm happy to guide you toward healthy, eco-friendly choices!

2. Wash Less, Hydrate More

Frequent washing can strip your color and dry out your hair, especially with Florida’s humidity working against us.
Aim to shampoo 2–3 times a week with lukewarm or cool water.
In between washes, a great dry shampoo and a hydrating leave-in conditioner can be your best friends to maintain softness, shine, and volume.

3. Always Use Heat Protection

I know how much we all love a polished blowout, but heat styling can fade color faster if you're not careful.
Before using a blow dryer, curling iron, or flat iron, always apply a heat protectant spray.
And remember — you don’t need the highest heat setting to get a gorgeous style! Keeping the heat moderate protects your color and your hair's natural strength.

4. Refresh Your Color Regularly

To keep your color looking its best, I recommend scheduling quick gloss or toning sessions between full color appointments.
A gloss or toner can revive faded tones, boost shine, and refresh your hair without full processing.
Most of my Palm Coast clients come in every 6–8 weeks for these easy, healthy refreshes.

5. Protect Your Hair from the Sun and Chlorine

Living in sunny Palm Coast is wonderful — but UV rays and pool chlorine can be tough on colored hair.
Whenever possible, wear a hat, use hair UV protection sprays, and rinse your hair with clean water before swimming.
These small habits can make a huge difference in preserving your beautiful color all year round!

Healthy Hair, Happy You 🌿

Maintaining your color isn’t just about looks — it’s about keeping your hair healthy, radiant, and strong.
By making a few simple adjustments to your routine, you can enjoy salon-fresh color longer and protect the health of your hair between visits.

✨ Ready for a refresh or a custom haircare plan?
I’m here to help you love your hair every single day.
👉 Book Your Appointment Today!