Woman with warm brunette-to-blonde half head balayage at Michael Todd Hairdressing, East Grinstead — expert soft-blend colour services for dimension and brightness in West Sussex
Balayage

Half Head Balayage

From £100 - £113
90 min
Patch Test
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A half head balayage is perfect for clients looking to refresh their colour with lighter, face-framing pieces and soft highlights through the top and crown. This service enhances your natural colour while keeping the finish seamless and low-maintenance — ideal for in-between visits or a subtler approach to balayage.

Before we begin, a patch test is required at least 48 hours prior to your appointment. It’s a quick check to ensure there’s no sensitivity to the colour products we use.

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Your stylist will start your appointment with a personalised consultation. We’ll take the time to understand the look you’re aiming for — whether you’d like to enhance natural movement or add more definition around the face — and talk through your lifestyle to ensure the colour works with how you wear your hair day to day.

We’ll select flattering tones that complement your natural base, skin tone and haircut. Balayage is applied by hand-painting lightener through the top layers of the hair, focusing on the crown, parting and front sections. The aim is to brighten where it’s most visible, while blending softly into the rest of your hair.

Your appointment will usually take around 1 and a half hours, depending on your hair’s length and thickness. We may use a toner at the end to perfect the finish — this helps add shine, refine the shade and ensure everything blends beautifully.

To maintain your half head balayage, we typically recommend a refresh every 8–10 weeks. Your stylist will also advise on the best Davines home care to maintain colour tone, strength and shine between salon visits.

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Client Reviews

5.0

Based on 3 reviews

  • F

    Francesca Cowin

    Thank you so much Becky. You did an amazing job with my hair. The highlights are beautiful now I’m ready for my big celebration!! Love Francesca 🎉💖🎉
  • P

    Paris Harper

    The best, came in with patchy pink and purple hair and left with a gorgeous brunette to blonde blend. I had lily and she was really good I highly recommend her and this hairdressers ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  • P

    Paris Harper

    The best - I came in with patchy pink and purple hair and left with a gorgeous brunette to blonde blend! I had Lily and she was really good. I highly recommend her and this hairdressers ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a half head balayage appointment take?
Most half head balayage services take between 90 minutes and 3 hours, depending on your hair's length, thickness, and starting colour. The stylist will give you a more accurate timeframe during your consultation.
How much does half head balayage cost at Michael Todd Hairdressing?
Half head balayage starts from £100 to £113. The final price depends on your hair's length, thickness, and any additional services like toner, treatments, or finishing.
How is half head balayage different from full balayage?
Half head balayage focuses on the top and outer layers—mainly around the face and crown—while the underneath stays closer to your natural colour. Full balayage treats more of the hair throughout, giving overall lightness and dimension. Half head is quicker, lower-cost, and ideal for a softer, more subtle effect.
How often will I need to come back for maintenance?
Balayage typically lasts around four months before needing a full refresh, thanks to its soft regrowth. However, you may want a toner or gloss every 6–8 weeks to keep your shade looking fresh and prevent brassiness.
Can I have half head balayage on dark or coloured hair?
Yes, balayage works on a wide range of base colours. However, very dark or previously coloured hair may not lift to very pale blonde in one session without compromising condition. Your stylist will assess your hair and discuss realistic goals during your consultation.
Will balayage damage my hair?
All lightening services involve some stress on the hair, but professional application, appropriate developer strength, and bond-building treatments help minimise damage. Your stylist will assess your hair's condition and recommend realistic lightness levels to keep it healthy.
What should I do to prepare for my balayage appointment?
Come with clean or day-old hair (avoid heavy styling products). If you have a sensitive scalp or have had previous reactions to colour, let your stylist know so they can arrange a patch test if needed.
How do I look after my balayage at home?
Use colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner, limit heat styling or always use a heat protectant, and incorporate deep conditioning treatments weekly. Protect your hair from UV exposure with hats or UV sprays to prevent fading.
Does half head balayage work on short or curly hair?
Yes, balayage can be adapted for different lengths and textures. For curly hair, your stylist will place colour where it naturally catches the light. Very short hair may need adjusted techniques, but medium to long lengths are ideal for classic sweeping balayage.
Can I go lighter or add more balayage later?
Absolutely. Many clients start with a half head balayage and add more sections over time, or transition to a full balayage as their hair lightens and they want more overall dimension.

Available Team Members

These team members perform this service

  • Rebekah from Michael Todd hairdressing - Salon Owner - stylist-colourist
    Rebekah Todd
    Salon Owner
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  • Marie Mercer style director at Michel Todd Hairdressing in East Grinstead
    Marie Mercer
    Style Director
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  • Jade Finch. Senior stylist at Michel Todd Hairdressing. East Grinstead
    Jade Finch
    Senior Stylist
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  • Katie Quy, Senior Stylist at Michael Todd Hairdressing in East Grinstead, showcasing her signature bouncy curls and warm smile, wearing a stylish animal print blouse.
    Katie Quy
    Senior Stylist
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