27 Balayage Hairstyles For Black Hair

If you are a hair color enthusiast, you know balayage is the king of hair color trends. But while brown and blonde balayages have been making the news, we have been captivated by balayage hairstyles for black hair! The Balayage technique uses the free hand to paint colors on your hair in a sweeping fashion. It is popular because it colors the hair in a natural flow. And you painters out there know that black makes for an irresistible background! So, scroll down to check out the creative ways people have styled their black hair with balayage trends.

Before You Get Started

• The melted hues effect from the balayage technique is a great way to add dimension to plain, black hair.
• A balayage is low on maintenance and requires a touch-up once every 6-8 weeks.
• Even if your hair grows out, your hair color will still look good with the balayage technique.
• The entire process of balayage can take anywhere between 1-3 hours, depending on the number of layers and the kind of look you need.

Why Do We Love Balayage?

‘Balayage’, which means to paint or to sweep, is a French hair coloring technique that incorporates hand-painting your hair without foils or caps. The highlights are not uniform and are strategically placed to create smoothly blended color styles that suit hair of all textures and haircuts of all length.

The color is smoothly swept onto your hair to create a myriad of effects – from beautifully sunkissed looks to bold-but-classy unnatural color styles. When done right, the style looks extremely flattering and is super easy to maintain. The best part being, your hair will look just as stunning when it starts to grow out without the need for touch-ups.

Did You Know?

National Balayage week is celebrated in August to celebrate the technique of creative hair painting in the spirit of coloring hair with freehand.

How Is Balayage Applied?

The color is hand-painted onto your hair to create a sweeping effect. The highlights are not uniform and are smoothly blended from your natural hair color to the hair dye of your choice. The effect can be subtle or bright and bold depending on your preference. The best part is you do not necessarily have to rely on hair salons all the time to adopt this style. All you need to do is choose the right hair products and follow the below steps. Here’s how you can achieve the look:

You Will Need

• Gloves
• Petroleum jelly
• An old towel
• An old shirt
• Hair clips for sectioning
• Paddle brush
• Balayage color kit.

Method

1. Put your gloves on and apply the petroleum jelly onto your forehead, ears, neck, and along your hairline to avoid skin staining.
2. Put on a shirt you wouldn’t mind getting stains on and drape an old towel around your shoulders.
3. Following the instructions on the balayage kit, mix the colors.
4. Clip away the crown section of your hair and work with the bottom part of your hair in sections.
5. Using the brush that comes with the kit, start streaking the color from the mid-lengths to the bottom of your hair.
6. Ensure that you are applying more color at the bottom and sparingly streak the higher parts of each section.
7. Keep repeating the process until you’re done with all of your loose hair.
8. Unclip the crown and repeat the coloring process.
9. Once you’re done coloring, run the paddle brush through your hair to spread the color evenly.
10. Licensed cosmetologist Dawna Jarvis recommends teasing your hair with a brush to avoid harsh color lines.
11. Proceed to shampoo and condition your hair.
12. Blow-dry and style your hair to finish the look.

Bekah, a cosmetologist and beauty vlogger, shares her way of doing a balayage at home. She says, “I love balayage because it’s a grown-out, easy lived-in look. It looks like you got kissed by the sun (i).”

Note: If you’ve never colored your hair at home before, consider going to a professional or get an experienced friend to help you out.

While balayage demands effort, it is simpler than maintaining highlights. Scroll below to learn what makes them different.

Balayage Vs. Highlights

Balayage offers a more natural, gradient effect with hand-painted color seamlessly blended for a low-maintenance style. It grows out gracefully, taking on a life of its own, and requires fewer touch-ups.

On the other hand, highlights involve placing foils to lighten specific sections, offering a more defined and uniform appearance. Highlights can be used to achieve either subtle or bold contrasts, but maintaining them may be a problem. The regrowth is more noticeable, and it makes the sections look uneven.

Choose either balayage for a natural, relaxed vibe or highlights for precision contrast, because, ultimately, your desired outcome and maintenance commitment are what will inform your choice.

Reading more about balayage vs highlights will help you make an informed decision. No matter what you pick for your transformation, check below for some hairstyle inspirations or motivation for changing your black hair.

27 Balayage Hairstyles For Black Hair

1. Lilac And Ash Blonde Balayage

Any hue of purple is a good match for black hair. It’s a match made in heaven. This pastel lilac shade with hints of ash blonde at the ends gives a vibrant flair to the dark hair.

2. Caramel Glow

A perfect autumnal balayage look doesn’t exist or does it? Warm, deep caramel honey tones on black hair add depth to your locks. The dark chocolate shade gradually melts into a light caramel hue at the ends, creating a noticeable contrast.

3. Sterling Gray Balayage

The gray hair color trend began a couple of years ago and it has only gotten better. This is one of the smoothest gray balayages that we’ve come across. The transition of colors incorporates shades of black and charcoal that fade out to a beautiful sterling. Ideal for people with cool toned skin, this is definitely one of the coolest (pun intended) styles we’ve come across. However, if you are trying this on your own it can be a little tough to achieve flawless on your first go. Here’s a bit of hair health advice from Dawna Jarvis, a licensed cosmetologist, to get it right. She says, “This will be the hardest color to achieve for black hair. You have to get all the yellow out of the hair, which can be very damaging. I would recommend adding a bonder to your lightner.”

4. Storm Gray Balayage

This style’s youthful take on granny hair has us head over heels in love! Not completely bereft of warm tones, the dark black is highlighted with customized gray streaks. The transitionary brown tones have been toned and painted with gray. The blend of colors in the style adds dimension and volume, making it ideal for women with thin and fine hair.

5. Black Ash Balayage

We don’t think gray can get classier than this. The cool-toned black that incorporates minimal charcoal highlights paints a pretty bold picture. The style is subtle yet strong with cool undertones that are highlighted at the mid and lower sections. This undoubtedly is the best style for women who are firm believers of “less is more.”

6. Ash Blonde Balayage For Black Hair

Speaking of sweeping colors, this style has definitely nailed the concept. The ash blonde balayage on black hair sweeps down so smoothly, leaving us in awe of this masterpiece. The subtle dirty blonde tones add a ton of character to the gray highlights, both of which have been expertly woven together by the hands of a genius. It is one of the most striking blonde balayage looks from which you can get inspired.

7. Dirty Blonde Balayage For Black Hair

We can’t wrap our minds around how dirty blonde could end up looking so chic. The color which doesn’t usually call out to you has our undivided attention in this balayage style. The strategically placed highlights seem to be grabbing all the light while the darker undertones add dimension to this look.

8. Hazelnut Mocha Balayage For Black Hair

Freshly brewed mocha. That’s what this style reminds us of. The chocolate lowlights are expertly blended with hazelnut highlights. This is the perfect style for women with lustrous black hair. We’re afraid it’ll melt if we stare at it for too long!

9. Dark Roast Balayage

Who doesn’t like roasted coffee beans? The hues in this style are so caffeinated, it’s starting up a whole new kind of coffee addiction. The natural black blends out smoothly to a brown roast. This style is perfect for fine haired women with medium hair length.

10. Chocolate Balayage For Black Hair

There are few things that go better with black hair than this smooth melting chocolate. The chocolate streaks are meticulously and sparingly placed from the mid-lengths of the hair and work down to create a multi-hued dark chocolate fantasy. The warm tones in this style make it an amazing balayage hair fashion for Indian black hair.

11. Cool-Toned Brown Balayage

It’s so rare to see a perfect cool-toned brown, but this style has more than nailed it! The streaks start high up on the curls, creating a root-melt effect. The framing strands have been expertly lightened and toned. This is definitely the perfect color to spruce up a messy curly look.

12. Subtle Brown Balayage

Subtlety is an art and this hairstyle is a masterpiece. If you have straight black hair and want to add a little dimension, this style is just what you were looking for. The subtle brown highlights create a natural sun-kissed look for women who like to keep things simple.

13. Rose Gold Melt

Although we’re always ooh-ing and aah-ing over cool tones, rose gold never fails to disappoint us with its perfect amount of brassiness. The pink and peach undertones add so much character to this style. The transition from dark natural color to the unnatural highlights is flawless, which is hard to achieve when working with colors that are so far apart on the spectrum.

14. Mahogany Highlights

This warm-toned balayage is reeling us in like fishes on a line. “Warm tones are your best bet when coloring black hair. They are the most natural of tones and easiest to achieve,” says Dawna Jarvis. The style is generously streaked from very close to the roots. The dark natural hair blended out to a mahogany brown creates a low-light effect that adds dimension to the look. This is another great style for long wavy bobs.

15. Auburn Balayage For Black Hair

These warm tones are killing us (in the best way possible, of course.) The balayage has concentrated highlights near the face-framing strands and the lower sections of the hair, becoming sparse as you go around the back. The effect is truly mesmerizing, making this an ideal style for fine wavy hair.

16. Burgundy Red Balayage For Black Hair

The balayage artists are nailing these styles with this superior artistry. The framing strands on this style are extremely concentrated, creating the same kind of dimension in the front as it does at the back. The natural black color effortlessly blends out to a wine red, creating a beautifully bold look.

17. Crimson Red Balayage For Black Hair

Ooh, this deep red. We would kill for hair like this. The crimson highlights are woven into the black hair with fiery orange undertones, making this the style for lovers of bold warm hair colors. The highlights are generously placed very close to the roots on layered locks to create a flaming masterpiece.

18. Triton’s Fury Blue Balayage For Black Hair

Blue is an absolute favorite when we’re talking unnatural colors. The shades of turquoise in this style are beautifully woven to create a hairstyle that looks like a portrait of the ocean. This style is sure to suit all textures and the colors are expertly swept down from extremely close to the roots. The blend of colors is sure to look just as beautiful fading out as it does in this freshly painted picture. But, don’t try this balayage by coloring your own hair. Licensed cosmetologist Dawna Jarvis says,”I would suggest going to a salon for this as these colors are very tricky to accomplish, especially on black hair.”

19. Midnight Shadows Blue Balayage For Black Hair

This asymmetrical pixie is what dreams are made of. The style incorporates a smooth root-melt that has been blended out to the darkest blue with subtle teal highlights that add dimension. This is the perfect style for fine straight hair to add the appearance of volume. And the fact that it looks totally badass does not hurt one bit.

20. Poseidon’s Whispers Blue Root-Melt Balayage For Black Hair

We just can’t get enough of these blue balayage styles. This navy blue with teal undertones couldn’t be any more perfect. This is the perfect style for women who want a bold blue without straying too far from their natural hair color. The black effortlessly blends into the dark blue that further transitions to a lighter shade – putting its wonderful undertones on display.

21. Hints Of Blue Balayage For Black Hair

This style is so subtle, yet so bold. If you love your black hair but are dying to let out your inner mermaid in the subtlest way possible, this is the style for you. The blue highlights are judiciously placed around the mid-lengths and tips to create this beautiful style. If you love unnatural colors but can’t go all the way because of work or college, this style is meant for you.

22. Smooth Teal Balayage For Black Hair

This style is tealing our hearts away. The straight black hair is so gorgeously blended out to a stunning teal. We seriously cannot get over how great this style is. If you have long straight hair and itchy fingers, this is everything your hair needs and more.

23. Emerald Hued Balayage For Black Hair

We do not have enough green balayage styles out there. But can any amount really be enough? Pass the tissues because we’re literally crying over how great this emerald balayage bob looks. Green is a totally underrated color and this goth-inspired hair painting is doing the color complete and utter justice.

24. Pink Balayage For Black Hair

This pastel pink has been meticulously streaked through the black hair to create a beautiful ombre balayage. The pastel pink has rose gold and sterling undertones, which create dimension and give a metal finish. This hairstyle is sure to suit all hair types hair textures.

25. Lavender Balayage For Black Hair

Lavender is probably one of the biggest trends in pastel hair colors. This look incorporates brassy undertones which add a little bit of warmth to the look, giving it a lavender gold finish. The color transitions from black to a brassy lavender to a light sterling lavender. This style is sure to look stunning on all hair types and textures.

26. Eggplant Purple Balayage For Black Hair

This eggplant purple looks amazing on black hair. The dark roots effortlessly blend out to a deep purple that is so strong at the tips. The textureless blending gives the look a smooth finish, making this style perfect for voluminous and textured hair.

27. Subtle Purple Balayage For Black Hair

For an unnatural color, the purple in this style sits so naturally with the black. This style incorporates customized highlights that subtly blend into the black hair. The purple hair frames the face and is sparingly placed around the long bob. The look is ideal for women with thick black hair.

How Long Does It Take To Do A Balayage For Black Hair?

Depending on the color you’ve chosen for your hair, it can take from one 30 minute session to multiple 45-minute sessions to achieve the balayage look. A dark brown balayage on black hair can be achieved within 20-30 minutes whereas a major transition from black platinum or baby blonde can take multiple 30-45 minute sessions.

How To Maintain A Balayage For Black Hair

A natural balayage that is fading from black to a brown or blonde does not take a lot of upkeep. For a really light blonde, you could use a purple or blue shampoo to keep the color fresh and toned. Apart from this, you can simply let your hair grow and get regular trims until you are left with subtle sun-kissed tips for hair maintenance.

For an unnatural balayage with bold or pastel colors such as blue or purple, using a blue or purple shampoo every now and then becomes crucial to keep out brassy tones. You will also have to use a color protecting shampoo and conditioner to keep the color from fading out too quickly. It’s best to choose hair care products that do not contain silicones or sulfates. Also, using a nourishing hair mask, specifically designed for colored hair, will keep your hair soft and healthy! Use it once a week consistently over a few months and see the difference for yourself. Ensure that all the hair products you use are fit for colored hair. This prevents the color from fading every time you use them.

Ensure that you use heat protection while hair styling and regularly pamper your hair with hair masks and bond building treatments such as Olaplex or K-18.

Quick Tip

Avoid dipping in a swimming pool that contains chlorine as it strips hair of its natural oil and color, so use a swim cap to protect your hair from chlorine.

Infographic: 6 Stunning Balayage Hairstyles For Black Hair

While hair trends keep coming and going, Balayage has stood the test of time. What’s more, this versatile technique can help create some edgy and funky styles that will make your black hair shine! To help you out, we have put together the top 6 Balayage hairstyles for black hair. Check out the infographic below and get inspired!

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a balayage damage black hair?

This depends on the type of hair color you use. A balayage is just a hair coloring technique that paints the hair in a natural motion. If you use ammonia-free or demi-/semi-permanent hair colors, your hair will look healthy. Pick a shade that is two tones darker or lighter than your natural hair color to add a subtle depth to your locks. Remember to follow the proper aftercare routine to ensure your hair is healthy and beautiful.

Are balayage and ombre the same thing?

Balayage is a hair fashion technique that involves applying color along the hair’s surface, while ombre is more of a style.

How long does balayage last on black hair?

Balayage can last for 3-4 months on black hair.

Can you get balayage black hair without bleach?

Yes. You can get balayage on black hair without bleach. Licensed cosmetologist Dawna Jarvis says,” You can use high-lift colors, but they will definitely pull warm tones.” Be sure to use a toner to remove any brassy hues.

Illustration: Balayage Hairstyles For Black Hair

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Check out this video for 10 amazing balayage hairstyles for black hair! Learn to create these looks at home without much hassle. Time to spruce up your look with these stunning hairstyles and make heads turn!

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Dawna JarvisLicensed Cosmetologist

   

Dawna is a state board licensed cosmetologist practicing in New Hampshire and California. She has over 24 years of experience and is a business growth strategist specializing in confidence-building and performance enhancement.

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Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

 

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

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Shatabdi BhattacharyaAssociate Editor

Shatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.

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Anu PallaviBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Anu is a beauty and lifestyle writer and a graduate of Amity University, Noida, where she refined her writing skills and cultivated her deep passion for the field. She pursued the Beauty Technician Training Program at Maquillage Beauty Institute, which has equipped her with practical skills in various beauty treatments.

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