Balayage vs. Ombré: What Is the Difference?

Over the years, balayage and ombré have become nearly synonymous in everyday conversation, but in the professional salon world, they are distinctly different. At TRIM NuLu, a highly awarded Louisville, KY hair salon, we specialize in both, and understanding the difference helps ensure you get the exact look you’re envisioning.

Named Best Hair Salon in Louisville by the Louisville Courier-Journal for five consecutive years (2021–2025), and recognized multiple times by the Louisville Voice Tribune, our team is trusted to deliver expert color results tailored to each guest.

Ombré: A Color Style

Ombré is a style of color, much like a bob is a style of haircut. The term ombré comes from French and refers to a shaded or graduated tone, moving from darker at the root to lighter at the ends.

What an Ombré Looks Like

A more defined transition from dark to light
Ends that are typically fully saturated with lightener
A noticeably two-toned effect, with brighter, lighter tips

How Ombré Is Created

When creating an ombré, the lightener is applied more heavily to the ends of the hair. The transition line is then carefully diffused, but the result remains intentionally bold. This technique is ideal for guests who want a dramatic contrast and maximum brightness on the ends.

Balayage: A Color Technique

Balayage, also a French term, means “to sweep.” Unlike ombré, balayage is not a style, it is a method of applying color.

How Balayage Is Applied

Lightener is hand-painted onto the surface of the hair
Uses smaller, more angular sections
Not all ends are fully lightened

The Result of Balayage

Because of the sweeping, painted application, balayage creates a softer transition from dark to light. The finished look is often described as:

Natural
Sun-kissed
Effortlessly blended

These softer looks are sometimes referred to as “sombré,” meaning soft ombré.

Choosing the Right Look at Our Louisville, KY Salon

Both balayage and ombré are specialized color services that typically require:

A longer appointment time
A higher level of technical skill
A greater investment than traditional highlights

However, they also offer significant advantages.

Low-Maintenance, High Impact

Compared to traditional foil highlights, both services grow out more seamlessly, meaning:

Fewer touch-up appointments
Softer regrowth
Longer-lasting results

Caring for Your Color Investment

While these looks are low-maintenance in the salon, home care for healthy hair is essential:

Use professional-grade products
Schedule regular conditioning treatments
Always apply heat protection when styling

Proper care preserves both the integrity of your hair and the longevity of your color.

Book Your Balayage or Ombré in Louisville

Now you know the difference between Balayage vs. Ombré! If you’re looking for balayage or ombré in Louisville, KY, our award-winning team would love to help you find the service that best fits your hair, lifestyle, and goals.

📍 TRIM NuLu — Louisville, KY
🏆 Best Hair Salon in Louisville (2021–2025)
📞 833-874-6444
📅 Book online: https://trimnulu.co/appointments

We look forward to welcoming you into our Louisville salon and creating a color you’ll love.