ASH + GOLD
Q&A
Confidently Choose Your Look: Answers to Our Most Popular Service Questions
Q: How do I know if balayage is right for my hair type?
A: Balayage works beautifully on a wide range of hair types, from straight to wavy to curly. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a low-maintenance color that grows out naturally. During your consultation, we’ll assess your hair’s texture, current color, and desired outcome to ensure balayage will give you the best results. If another technique would be better suited, we’ll discuss options tailored to your unique hair needs.
Q: What is custom balayage, and how is it different from traditional highlights?
A: Custom balayage is a personalized hair-coloring technique where we hand-paint color onto sections of hair to create a natural, sun-kissed effect. Unlike traditional highlights, which have a more uniform look, balayage blends seamlessly for a soft, multidimensional finish that grows out beautifully. Every balayage is customized to suit your hair type, color, and personal style, giving you a truly unique look.
Q: What is a root melt balayage, and how is it different from a double process?
A: A root melt balayage blends darker roots with lighter ends, creating a soft, seamless transition from root to tip. We start by applying a darker shade at the roots, melting it gently into lighter balayage highlights. This look is lower maintenance than a double process because the root area is softer, allowing for more time between touch-ups. Root melt balayage is perfect for those who want a natural, dimensional style that grows out gracefully.
Q: What is a double process, and who is it best suited for?
A: A double process involves two steps to create a bold, all-over color transformation. First, we lighten your natural or existing color to create a blank canvas. Then, we apply your target color—whether that’s platinum blonde, vibrant red, or a fantasy shade. This technique is ideal for clients wanting a dramatic change, like going from dark to very light hair. Keep in mind, a double process usually requires more frequent touch-ups to keep the color even and fresh.
Q: I have long hair and want to keep the length but add some shape. What do you recommend?
A: For long hair, we recommend adding layers or face-framing pieces to create movement and shape without sacrificing length. This approach helps highlight your best features, adds dimension, and prevents your hair from looking too heavy. We can customize the cut based on your hair’s natural texture and desired style.
Q: What are the benefits of a long haircut with layers?
A: Layers in long hair help add volume, movement, and shape, preventing your hair from looking weighed down or flat. Layering also works beautifully with styling, whether you’re wearing your hair in waves, curls, or sleek and straight. We can customize the layering based on your face shape and lifestyle to ensure the cut enhances your look and feels manageable.
Q: What’s the difference between a shag haircut and other layered cuts?
A: A shag haircut is a layered style that adds texture and volume, often with choppy layers that start around the crown and taper down. It’s a versatile, edgy look that can be customized to suit various lengths and textures, making it perfect for anyone looking to add a little rock-and-roll vibe to their style. Shags work well with bangs and face-framing layers, which add even more personality to the cut.
Q: I’m thinking of getting bangs. How do I know which type will suit my face shape?
A: Bangs can completely transform your look, and the right style depends on your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle. For example, curtain bangs work well on most face shapes and are easy to style. Blunt bangs create a bold look, while wispy or side-swept bangs are more low-maintenance. During your consultation, we’ll help you find the perfect bangs to complement your unique features.
Q: What is face framing, and how does it enhance my hairstyle?
A: Face framing involves cutting sections around your face to highlight your best features and create a softer, flattering shape. It can be subtle or bold, depending on your style. Adding face-framing layers or pieces enhances your overall look and can make long haircuts, shags, and layered styles even more eye-catching.
Q: How often should I come in for a trim or touch-up?
A: This depends on your style and hair type. For long hair or balayage, we recommend a trim every 8–12 weeks to maintain healthy ends, while shorter cuts may need touch-ups every 6–8 weeks. Root melts and balayage tend to grow out gracefully, so you can go longer between appointments, but regular maintenance keeps your hair looking fresh and vibrant.
Q: Why is it important to use professional hair products?
A: Professional hair products are formulated with higher-quality ingredients to protect your hair and enhance its health, shine, and color. They’re designed to work specifically with professional cuts and color treatments, ensuring your hair stays vibrant and strong. Plus, we can recommend products tailored to your hair type and style, so you get long-lasting results between salon visits.
Q: What products do you recommend to maintain color-treated hair?
A: For color-treated hair, we recommend sulfate-free shampoos, color-protecting conditioners, and leave-in treatments to preserve vibrancy and prevent fading. Using a weekly hair mask also helps keep your hair hydrated and healthy. We carry a selection of professional products designed to protect color, and we can customize a product regimen to fit your hair type and lifestyle.
Q: Why should I choose professional hair color over box dye?
A: Professional hair color is customized to suit your hair’s specific needs, allowing for a more vibrant and long-lasting result. Box dye can be unpredictable, especially if you have previous color in your hair or want to achieve a complex look like balayage. Professional colorists understand how different tones and levels interact, ensuring your color complements your skin tone, hair type, and desired style perfectly while minimizing damage.