Red Seal Hairstylist Practice Exam

How does the balayage technique work?

1. By using a comb to create uniform highlights

2. By hand-painting highlights onto the hair to create a natural, sun-kissed look

3. By using foils to separate and color hair sections

4. By applying color only to the tips of the hair

The correct answer is: By hand-painting highlights onto the hair to create a natural, sun-kissed look

Balayage is a freehand hair coloring technique that involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair. This method allows the stylist to achieve a very natural, sun-kissed effect, as the placement of the highlights is done with an artistic approach rather than following strict patterns. The purpose of balayage is to create a soft and blended look, which distinguishes it from other techniques that might use foils or specific sectioning. By painting the color directly onto the hair, the stylist can control the intensity and placement of the highlights, leading to a more personalized result that mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun. This results in a multidimensional look where some strands are lighter while others remain darker, contributing to the overall depth and movement in the hair. The other methods mentioned—such as using a comb for uniform highlights, applying color only to the tips, or using foils—do not capture the essence of balayage, which is defined by its hand-painted, freeform application and the specific aesthetic results it aims to achieve.