Are you considering warm blonde balayage but unsure of where to start? Look no further! We had the opportunity to interview Bonnie Adamiak-Preisser, a renowned stylist and educator, who shared her expertise and experience on achieving the perfect warm blonde. In this interview, Bonnie provides valuable insights and advice on ideal skin tones, maintenance, and crucial considerations when discussing the process with your stylist.
Meet The Expert
Bonnie Adamiak-Preisser
Bonnie is a stylist & educator with over 10 years of experience.
You can find her at Fringe Beauty Lounge in Wexford, PA.
Ideal Skin Tones and Color Considerations
Warm skin tones are the key to rocking a stunning warm blonde balayage, according to Bonnie. The beauty of balayage lies in its customizability, offering a wide range of blonde shades to suit various skin tones. For those with a dark brown base hair color, a deep blonde or light brown balayage can beautifully complement the base.
On fair skin tones, a very light blonde is usually the most flattering option. However, Bonnie notes that individuals with green eyes and fair skin might consider a warm, slightly copper balayage to enhance the green hues. Additionally, she suggests that someone with a somewhat tan skin tone and brown or light brown hair makes an excellent candidate for balayage.
Maintenance Tips and Product Recommendations
To maintain the vibrancy and beauty of your balayage, Bonnie recommends scheduling touch-ups every twelve weeks. At the six-week mark, a gloss and trim appointment is ideal for rejuvenating the color and maintaining healthy hair. The gloss not only helps tone down unwanted brassy tones caused by sun exposure or styling heat but also adds shine and softness.
For effective aftercare, Bonnie advises using salon-quality shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in conditioner, preferably with heat-protectant properties. This ensures the longevity of the gloss and the overall health of your hair. As for product recommendations, Bonnie loves Pureology’s Strength Cure Shampoo and Conditioner, as well as L’Oréal Professional’s Prolonger Shampoo and Conditioner.
Essential Factors to Discuss with Your Colorist
When consulting with your colorist/stylist, Bonnie emphasizes the importance of providing crucial information about your current base color and any previous coloring history. The longevity of color in your hair can be influenced by past treatments, even if they were done years ago.
Realistic expectations are essential, especially when aiming for balayage on dark base colors, as the lifting process has limitations. Balayage typically results in some warmth, so those seeking a platinum or ashy blonde may need to explore alternative options.
Lifestyle factors, such as preferred hairstyles and wearing hair up frequently, should be communicated to guide the balayage placement. Additionally, if you desire a bright hairline when wearing a ponytail, requesting ponytail pieces at the bottom of the hairline can achieve this effect.
Lastly, Bonnie encourages open communication and urges individuals to ask their stylist any questions before undergoing any color service, emphasizing that no question is too trivial.