Woman with long wavy ombre hair looks down in studio portrait
Balayage

Ombre

£58 – £90
165 - 180 mins
Patch Test Required
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Ombre is a softly blended colour that stays deeper at the roots and gradually becomes lighter through the mid lengths and ends. It is a lovely option if you want a brighter look without harsh lines, and with a grow out that feels easy to live with. Your colour is tailored to your natural base, your hair condition, and how much contrast you actually want, so the finish looks polished, not overdone.

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What an ombre appointment can do for your hair

Ombre is all about smooth transition and smart placement. Your appointment is designed to deliver:

  • A gradual lightening from root to ends, with seamless blending
  • Brightness through the lengths without frequent root maintenance
  • A colour plan that suits your natural shade, previous colour, and day to day styling
  • A finish that prioritises hair condition and shine
  • Clear advice on upkeep, toning, and how to keep it looking fresh

Is ombre right for you?

Ombre works well if you like colour that grows out softly and you do not want to feel tied to constant root touch ups. It can be subtle and natural, or higher contrast for a bolder look, depending on what suits you. It is also useful if you are growing out older colour and want the ends to look intentional.

If your hair has a lot of previous colour, or you are moving from very dark to very light, you may need a staged plan over more than one appointment to keep the hair in good condition.

What happens at your appointment

Your appointment usually takes around 165 to 180 minutes, depending on your hair length, thickness, and the result you are aiming for.

You can expect:

  • A consultation to agree the depth at the root, the level of lightness, and where the blend should start
  • Sectioning and careful lightening through the mid lengths and ends
  • Blending work to keep the transition soft and even
  • A recommended toner where needed to refine the shade and reduce unwanted warmth, this is a separate step
  • A cleanse and finish, with styling that shows the blend properly

For colour services, a patch test may be needed before your appointment, we will guide you through it in plenty of time.

Aftercare and maintenance

Ombre is designed to be lower maintenance, but good aftercare makes a big difference to tone and shine. We will talk you through how often to refresh your colour, when a toner top up is useful, and the simplest at home routine for your hair type. If your ends are dry or fragile, you may be advised to book a treatment or a tidy up cut alongside your colour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ombre and balayage?
Ombre gives a more noticeable shift from darker roots to lighter ends, with a clear gradient. Balayage is usually more scattered and sun kissed, with lighter pieces throughout. We can talk through which look matches your hair and how you style it.
Will ombre look natural as it grows out?
Yes, that is one of the main benefits when the blend is placed well. Because the root stays closer to your natural shade, regrowth is softer and less obvious. We will tailor the transition so it still looks polished between appointments.
Do I need a patch test for ombre?
You may need a patch test for colour, especially if you are new to the salon or have not coloured your hair for a while. It is a quick step done ahead of time for safety. If it applies to you, you will be advised when you book.
Can I have ombre on dark hair?
Often yes, but the end result depends on your natural depth and any previous colour. Darker hair can lift warm, so a toner may be recommended to keep the shade looking balanced. Sometimes a gradual approach over more than one visit is the kindest option for the hair.
How should I prepare for my ombre appointment?
Arrive with a clear idea of how light you want the ends to be, photos help. Let us know about any home colouring or previous colour history, as it affects how the hair lifts. If your hair is very product heavy, a good cleanse the day before can help with even results.

Available Team Members

These team members perform this service

  • Black-and-white portrait of Sharron Jellis, owner and founder of Faking It Hairdressing & Beauty, Northampton.
    Sharron
    Salon Owner
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  • Black-and-white portrait of Sarah Bailey, Deputy Manager and Head Stylist at Faking It, seated against a floral backdrop.
    Sarah
    Deputy Manager and Head Stylist.
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  • Freya
    Stylist / Colourist
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  • Ivy-Grace
    Stylist/Creative Colourist /Brow & Lash Technician & Nail Technician
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Show more team members
  • Black-and-white portrait of Violet Thorn, Junior Stylist at Faking It, smiling in a salon setting.
    Violet
    Junior Stylist
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  • Neve
    Apprentice Junior Stylist
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  • Black-and-white portrait of Olivia Lambe, Stylist and Colour Specialist at Faking It, smiling against a floral backdrop.
    Olivia
    Creative Director Stylist (Maternity)
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Complete your experience with these services

  • Ombre - Refresh
    £45 – £80120 mins
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  • Balayage - Refresh
    £45 – £80120 mins
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  • Balayage
    £58 – £90165 - 180 mins
    View
  • Balayage and Root Stretch
    £70 – £100180 mins
    View
  • Toner (Balayage Comb Out)
    £28.5025 mins
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