It’s safe to say the ombre hair coloring technique has taken the hair color world by storm.

But what if we told you ombre hair actually has benefits?

Meet the Experts

Jafra Bryantis a celebrity and editorial colorist at Top Floor in LA.

mixed femme with curly ombre afro

Nick Dolding / Getty Images

Laura Rugettiis the owner of BeautyCan salon in LA.

With over a decade of experience she is also a hairstylist, hair extension, and color specialist.

What Is Ombre Hair?

Blonde Ombre Hair

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The hair world borrowed the term “ombre” from the French word meaning shaded or shading.

It’s ideal for clients looking for a low-maintenance style.

Jena Ardell / Getty Images

Ombre vs. Balayage: Whats the Difference?

Portrait of woman on pink wall

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Bryant explains that ombre was a color concept birthed by balayage.

“What ombre truly is, is a grown-out version of different forms of balayage,” she says.

The way the two highlighting techniques are achieved is one of the main differences between ombre and balayage.

Pink Ombre Hair

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“For ombre, you use with foils to get the look of natural dark to light.

Balayage is hand-painted to look like the sun naturally highlighted your hair without foils,” Rugetti says.

One of the best ways to understand the difference is to visualize it, according to Bryant.

Blonde Ombre Hair

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“A full-coverage look.”

She then says to picture that same look six to eight months later with no color maintenance.

This gives the look of an intentional grown out effect we have dubbed as ombre, according to Bryant.

Red Ombre Hair by Jafra Bryant

@salonfordummies

What Are the Benefits of Ombre Hair Color?

How Long Does Ombre Hair Color Last?

That said, Rugetti says her clients with ombre typically come every three months.

Blonde Ombre Hair Ponytail

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You should also switch up your hair care products to keep your color looking fresh.

“Use a sulfate-free shampoo so the color doesn’t get stripped out from sulfates,” says Rugetti.

Try Oribe’s Shampoo for Beautiful Color.

Along with sulfate-free shampoo, use color-safe products to extend your highlighted hair.

If you have blonde highlights, use a purple shampoo if your hair starts to get brassy.

Can You Get Ombre Hair at Home?

But is it possible?

According to Bryant, it really depends.

These elements include natural sunshine and the overuse of heat tools.

it’s possible for you to get some natural lighter ends," Rugetti adds.

Keep in mind that at-home kits are extremely risky and can fry your hair if not used properly.