5 Common Mistakes People Make After Getting Balayage

Balayage is one of the most popular hair color techniques around the world—and for good reason. It's known for its natural-looking highlights and low maintenance appeal. When done right, balayage gives hair a sun-kissed look that grows out beautifully. But even the best coloring job can lose its shine if not properly cared for afterward.

Whether someone gets their hair done at a top hair salon in NYC or a local neighborhood spot, keeping balayage looking fresh takes a little effort and know-how. Unfortunately, many people unknowingly make mistakes after leaving the salon, which can quickly dull their new look.

Here are five common mistakes people make after getting balayage—and how to avoid them.

1. Washing Hair Too Soon

One of the most frequent mistakes people make is washing their hair too soon after getting balayage. Hair needs time to absorb the color fully, and washing it within the first 48 hours can strip away some of the pigment.

It’s best to wait at least two full days before shampooing. This allows the hair cuticle to close, helping the color last longer and look richer. If hair feels oily or dirty before then, dry shampoo is a good option to keep things feeling fresh without damaging the new look.

Tip: Always use lukewarm or cool water when washing colored hair. Hot water can cause color to fade faster.

2. Using the Wrong Shampoo and Conditioner

Not all shampoos are made for color-treated hair. Using the wrong products can quickly fade balayage, especially lighter tones like blonde or caramel. Many regular shampoos contain harsh ingredients like sulfates, which strip color and dry out the hair.

Color-safe shampoos and conditioners are designed to be gentle while keeping the color vibrant. Some even come with added purple or blue pigments to tone brassiness, which is common in lighter balayage shades.

When in doubt, look for products labeled "color-safe," "sulfate-free," or those specifically made for maintaining balayage or highlighted hair.

3. Skipping Moisture Treatments

Balayage often involves lightening the hair, which can lead to dryness if not properly cared for. After coloring, hair needs extra moisture to stay soft and healthy. Unfortunately, many people skip deep conditioning treatments and wonder why their hair feels rough or brittle later on.

Weekly hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and oils like argan or coconut can help restore moisture and shine. These treatments not only improve texture but also help color look fresher and last longer.

A little extra care goes a long way when it comes to colored hair.

4. Too Much Heat Styling

Flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers can all cause heat damage. For hair that’s been balayaged, this damage can make color fade faster and leave hair looking frizzy or dull.

While it’s fine to style with heat occasionally, using high temperatures every day can weaken the hair and cause breakage. If heat styling is a must, it’s important to use a heat protectant spray. This acts like a shield, reducing the chance of color loss and damage.

Letting hair air dry when possible and using lower heat settings can help keep balayage looking its best.

5. Skipping Regular Salon Maintenance

Balayage is known for being low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean zero maintenance. One of the biggest mistakes people make is skipping touch-up appointments or gloss treatments.

Glosses or toners help refresh the color and tone down any unwanted brassiness. Over time, balayage can turn yellow or orange without these touch-ups. Visiting a stylist every 8–12 weeks for a toner or gloss keeps the color looking fresh and natural.

Also, trims are important! Getting regular haircuts—even just the ends—prevents split ends, making balayage appear neater and more polished. Whether someone prefers salons in Midtown or goes for haircuts East Village, routine care is key.

Final Thoughts

Balayage is a beautiful way to add dimension and light to hair without the harsh lines of traditional highlights. But once the coloring is done, the job isn't over. Taking care of balayage means making smart choices at home—starting with how and when you wash your hair, to the products you use, and how often you use heat tools.

Those who want their balayage to last—and look like it was done by the best balayage in NYC has to offer—should avoid these common mistakes. It’s the aftercare that truly makes the difference between dull, faded color and glowing, vibrant hair.

Good hair days don’t end when you leave the salon—they begin there. With a little effort and the right routine, balayage can stay fresh and fabulous for months to come.