Do your roots get dyed in a balayage?

Balayage has a reputation for being the low-maintenance hair colour option that just works. It grows out softly, it blends beautifully, and it always looks that little bit more “expensive” than a full head of foil highlights. But one of the questions we get asked all the time at Salon No. 100 is this: does balayage include the roots?

Let’s clear that up once and for all.

Balayage is not the same as root tint

The short answer is—no, not in the same way a traditional root colour does. A classic root tint involves applying dye directly to the roots, covering every strand from scalp to regrowth line. With balayage, the technique is far softer. Colour is hand-painted onto the hair, usually from mid-lengths down, with some lighter pieces placed around the face and top sections to create natural dimension.

The whole idea of balayage is to avoid a harsh regrowth line. That’s why your roots are usually left untouched or only very gently blended. If you’re used to a full root touch-up, this can feel strange at first—but trust us, the payoff is worth it. No sharp root line means less upkeep, fewer emergency colour appointments, and a more natural grow-out.

What if I want my roots darker or blended?

That’s where root melts or root stretches come into play. If you’re going from a very light blonde to something more dimensional, your Solihull Hairdresser might add a darker shade at the roots and stretch it downwards. This helps to blend the natural root with the new balayage and gives a seamless gradient effect.

It’s also a good choice if you’ve had traditional highlights before and are now moving towards a softer balayage. The root melt helps hide that harsh highlight line while still keeping the ends bright and light.

If your natural colour is quite different from your ends, this extra blending step can make all the difference between “just dyed” and “effortless colour.”

How do I know what I’ll need?

That’s where a proper consultation matters. At Salon No. 100, every balayage appointment starts with a conversation. We’ll ask what your natural hair colour is, how often you want to come back for maintenance, and whether you want to keep any grey coverage.

For someone wanting a soft, sun-kissed look that grows out with no fuss, we might skip the roots entirely. But if you want that Pinterest-perfect melt from deep brunette to creamy caramel, we’ll work a root blend into your service.

Your hairdresser in Solihull will tailor everything—placement, colour choice, and blending—to your face shape, skin tone, and style. It’s never a one-size-fits-all process, and that’s exactly why balayage looks so flattering when done right.

What about grey roots?

Ah, the grey root question. This is a biggie.

If you’re blending greys, balayage alone usually won’t be enough. Since it skips the root area, it won’t fully cover grey hair at the scalp. In this case, your stylist might combine balayage with a root tint to give you both coverage and that soft, dimensional look through the lengths.

Think of it as a hybrid colour service—tint at the root, balayage through the mid-lengths and ends. It’s a great option for anyone wanting a modern look but still needing some coverage.

For the best Solihull hairdresser, look no further than Salon No. 100! We’ve gathered hundreds of five-star reviews over the past few years. Call 07966 105306 and book your appointment today!