The Biz of Blonding

Pro Hair Color: Bayalage hair on model before during and after

There’s something to be said for a hair “specialist,” a pro who knows a particular technique up, down, and sideways, and does it better than anyone in town. That could be said of The Business of Balayage, an independent collective of educators who have been on a winning streak in the blonding biz from the moment their signature-teaching forum hit the industry. Take a peek at their latest Balayage creation, using Joico Free Play and LumiShine (and steal the formula while you’re at it)…

When OC colorist, Kara Van Hoogenstyn, of the Kindred Salon in Laguna Hills, CA, decided to specialize Balayage, the art of the “grown-out glow,” she knew she was onto something special. Not just part of an educational collective, but on the cusp of a trend that she claims has taken over the industry in a big way. “For both stylists and clients, Balayage has opened a door for more creativity. It’s the IT word…the look that’s always evolving, and has actually become the new foil,” she explains. Even more surprising: This natural, hand-painted technique is no longer a one-trick pony; but rather, an avenue to artistic blonding with an unlimited number “techniques within a technique.”

When designing the beautifully subtle glints here, Kara had an allover brighter blonde look in mind. “I wanted to go with a color that would grow out nicely, but give her “meh” hair color more brightness and pop. After all, hair should be as captivating as you are.” The secret in this case, was Joico Free Play Clay Lightener, a unique, nourishing formula designed to cling to strands, without foils, flaking, dripping, or dry-out. “I am head over heels in the love with Free Play,” raves Kara. “It allows me to Balayage so quickly…it’s my ideal consistency…and the seven levels of lift is a huge plus.”

Formula:

FREE PLAY + 40 VOLUME
Shadow root: LumiShine .5oz 6N + .5oz 8N + 1oz 5 volume (process 10-15 minutes)
Mids through ends: LumiShine .8oz 10N + .2oz 9NV + 1oz 5 volume (process 10 minutes)