We caught up with Red Door Hair Studio’s boss lady, Maria, to talk all things foilyage, how it’s different to balayage, who it’s suitable for and how long it takes to achieve.

What is foilyage?

It’s the trend that has been donned as ‘the new balayage’ on social media but what actually is foilyage?

Maria explains: “Foilyage is similar to balayage in terms of application, your hairdresser will hand paint on your pre-lightener. Where it becomes different is that you use foils to help the lightening process, which helps the hair to ‘lighten’ more effectively.”

How is it different to balayage?

Ever thought foils were just for effect? Or to hold the colour in place? You couldn’t be more wrong. The foil helps the hair lightening process by sealing in the heat, allowing it to lift more effectively.

The process of foilyage is very similar to balayage. The only difference is literally that your hairdresser will use foils to help achieve a lighter colour.

Maria explains: “With balayage your colour is left to air dry, achieving a natural look that appears completely natural and seamless. Foilyage gives the same natural effect but sealing the colour with the foils allows it to seep through to both sides of the hair, encouraging a stronger lift and a lighter colour as an end result. ”

Who is it suitable for?

“Foilyage is perfect for those who are naturally brunette and wanting to go blonde, or those wanting to go a particularly light shade of blonde but still want to have a natural grown-out finish.” Maria explains.

Foilyage’s ability to be able to lift the hair a couple of shades lighter does mean that it is slightly more damaging to the hair.

“I’d always recommended using Olaplex with a foilyage treatment. It can be included in the colouring process and helps to protect the hair’s integrity. Hair is made up of different ‘bonds’ and these go through stresses, colouring it adds extra stress to the hair - which without the right care - can make it weak or broken. Olaplex seeks out these broken bonds and repairs them.”

How long does it take to achieve?

Well, that really depends on exactly you want. A few natural foilyage highlights could be achieved in around a couple of hours. But if you’ve got a particularly dark head of hair and are looking for a full head of foilyage highlights, then you could be sat in the chair for around three to four hours.

Maria explains: "Everyone's hair is completely different. How long a foilyage transformation takes really depends on a number of factors such as how dark your hair is, hair type, how thick it is and how dramatic you want the transformation to be. I always insist that every client comes in for a consultant prior to carrying out a dye job, it means that we can both plan effectively for the transformation ensuring we have more than enough time to achieve the exact result that you want.”

Looking for a foilyage transformation? Click here to make your appointment now, drop us a message on Instagram or Facebook or call us on 07541 398234.

Please note, all new clients will need to come to the salon for a patch test 48 hours prior to your appointment.