Lived-in color is brightness that grows out softly, so you can go longer between appointments without a harsh line at your roots. At BR Collective, Bailey hand-paints every balayage and custom highlight, and every color service uses ammonia-free NATULIQUE color made with certified-organic ingredients, with no upcharge.
What is balayage?
Balayage is a hand-painting technique. Instead of placing foils in a regular pattern, your stylist paints lightness where the sun would naturally hit, so the result looks soft, dimensional and natural. Because the color blends into your roots, it grows out gracefully. That’s what makes it “lived-in”.
Balayage and highlight prices
Our custom color services are sized by how much brightness you want. Every one includes toner and a blowout.
| Service | What it is | Starting price | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Face Frame Highlight | Brightening pieces around the face | $180 | 1 hr 45 min |
| Mini Custom Color | A few brightening pieces, low commitment | $195 | 2 hr 30 min |
| Partial Custom Color | Hand-painted brightness through the top and sides | $225 | 2 hr 45 min |
| Full Custom Color | A full head of hand-placed highlights | $325 | 3 hr |
| Gloss / Toner Refresh (add-on) | Tone and shine between visits | $50 | 20 min |
Your final price depends on your hair’s length, thickness and starting point, and we’ll always confirm it before we begin. See the full service menu.
Which one should I book?
- Want a little glow? Face Frame or Mini Custom Color.
- Want brightness where it shows? Partial Custom Color. It’s the most popular choice for lived-in color.
- Want to go noticeably lighter all over? Full Custom Color.
- Not sure? Book the $30 New Guest Color Consultation and we’ll plan it together.
Keeping it bright on the coast
Sun, salt water, pool chlorine and humidity are hard on lightened hair. A gloss between appointments, a sulfate-free shampoo and UV protection make a real difference. We’ll send you home with a simple routine using NATULIQUE care matched to your hair.
Frequently asked questions
How long does balayage last?
Because it grows out softly, most people go three to six months between full balayage appointments, often with a gloss in between to refresh the tone.
Can I go lighter with ammonia-free color?
Yes. To brighten, we use a lightener where it’s needed, and we’ll always tell you what we’re using and why. If you’re going much lighter, it may take more than one visit so your hair stays healthy.
Who does balayage at BR Collective?
Bailey specializes in balayage, lived-in color and dimensional blondes. You can choose her when you book online. Meet the team.
Where are you?
You’ll find us at 2451 S College Road, Suite 211, Wilmington, NC 28412. We’re open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm.
Ready to brighten up? Book your custom color online, or see examples in our gallery.