Choices for Beautiful Hair

Q: What is the difference between a highlight and a balayage?
A: We know how confusing it can be when booking your color appointment. Trends are ever-changing and color terminology is no exception. The most asked question right now is, “What’s the difference between a highlight and a balayage?” It’s actually pretty simple. A highlight is when a stylist applies color all the way to the root. Balayage is a technique for highlighting hair in which the color is painted on in a way that creates a graduated, natural-looking effect. Believe it or not, a balayage is much less maintenance due to its appearance of live-in hair. Both are beautiful techniques for different looks.

Q: What is the best way to choose a stylist?
A: Finding the right stylist for you can be a hard task! The best way to find the right fit is to look up their social media. So many stylists are showcasing their work on social media. It’s the modern “look book.” Most stylists have a specialty and will highlight this on their page. Once you find the stylist that speaks to you, feel free to call the salon for an appointment or you can always message them through social media messaging. ■

Written by: Brianne Bustamante 

In 2001, Brianne Bustamante went to cosmetology school for make-up but instantly fell in love with hair. There she met Trevor Tobin with Encounters Salon and Day Spa, where she started apprenticing in 2002. Encounters offered education opportunities including Redken educators. Brianne became a Redken specialist and took color classes in New York with Jo Blackwell-Preston. Brianne went on to start her own bridal company, Blush Company, with her best friend. Blush focused on onsite bridal hair and make-up and was named The Best of Wedding for the Knot in 2010 and 2011. In 2017, Brianne decided that Blush was evolving and she needed to define it. She renamed the salon “tālem,” which means “empower” in Latin. Since then, Brianne has been focusing her energy behind the chair. Currently, she is learning the delicate balance of being behind the chair three days a week and running a growing and thriving salon of nine. Brianne’s passions are her three wonderful children and the salon industry. Brianne is inspired to create a green and low chemical environment for guests and staff alike!