Low-Maintenance Hair Color is on the Rise: Balayage, Lived-in Blondes, and More

Hair color trends are always changing, but there is one shift in the beauty industry that is here to stay: low-maintenance hair color. Clients are starting to request beautiful, believable tones in their hair that will grow out naturally without needing in-salon touch-ups every few weeks or so.

 Some of the most requested low-maintenance techniques are balayage (which refers to a free-hand painting technique), lived-in blondes, and shadow roots (all coloring terms that sound as beautiful as they look). These are some of the most beautiful (and practical!) hair coloring methods happening in salons today.

In this blog post, we’re going to discuss why low-maintenance color is trending, the benefits of low-maintenance techniques, and what hair styles are taking over salons in 2025.

Why Low-Maintenance Hair Color is Trending

Modern-day clients are busy people; time and money are precious commodities that clients are not willing to spend on hair color to keep it looking fresh. As the cost of beauty continues to rise, coupled with people returning to a more being-in-nature look, traditional full-head color or high-maintenance hand-painted highlights are now on the back burner while longer-lasting hair color options are trending.

Low-maintenance hair color provides:

Fewer touch-ups: The ability to be in the salon for the same amount of time yet not have to follow up with the same frequency

It grows out naturally: Even if hair is growing out, it still looks intentional

Saving time and money: Clients get more bang for their buck with every color session

Healthier hair: Clients have reduced hair processing, leading to healing of damage over time

Whether you’re a full-time employee, a parent who is always busy, or you are simply someone who prefers the least amount of maintenance, low-maintenance color is amazing. 

Balayage: The Technique of Natural Highlights 

Balayage, a French word meaning, “to sweep,” is a hair color technique where highlights are hand painted onto hair that makes a soft, sun-kissed look. Unlike foil highlights that achieve a stripe effect, balayage blends easily into your natural hair color, giving a more subtle, multidimensional effect. 

Why clients like it:

The grow-out is easy and natural

It looks good on all hair textures and colors

It creates depth and dimension out without hard lines

It is customizable for a soft glow, or bold contrast

Balayage can be designed for brunette, blonde or red hair, and is great for clients who want a low maintenance color that looks effortlessly beautiful.

Lived-in Blonde: Effortless and Elegant

The lived-in blonde trend aims to replicate the natural cycle of blonde hair over time – fading and growing. It usually consists of a darker root with brighter ends that create a subtle, dynamic transition that doesn’t scream, “I just came from the salon.”

To complete this lived-in blonde look, colorists combine highlights with root smudging and/or balayage, and toning. These techniques create dimension and warmth. 

Which makes lived-in blonde an excellent go-to, you get any of the following benefits:

Looks organic, as if it’s not overly processed

Less frequent touch-up on the roots

Typically can be designed for icy blondes, honey tones, or beige

Works well with many skin tones and hair types

Lived-in blonde is a popular color for trendy clients who gravitate towards a modern, soft look with a polished edge – but with practicality. 

Shadow Roots: Own The Grow Out

Another style within the low-maintenance color space is shadow roots. This trend is characterized by coloring the root area intentionally two shades darker than the rest of the hair. This way hair grows out, the grey or stark contrast isn’t as present and creates depth and visual texture. 

Shadow roots can be used with any shade/variation of blondes, brunettes, or fantasy hair colors. It is a perfect technique to blend the natural grow-out with highlighted mid-lengths and ends.

Tips on Keeping Low-Maintenance Color

Although these coloring processes are truly low-maintenance, you still need to care for your color! Here are a few pro tips for keeping your color fresh:

Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to help your color stay toned and prevent fading.

Use a good purple or blue toning shampoo to keep your blonde shades toned.

Every 6–8 weeks book a gloss or toner to refresh shine and tone.

It is always a good idea to deep condition regularly to keep your hair in good condition between color appointments.

It mitigates heat and UV exposure to prevent brassiness.

A couple of quick in-salon toner appointments or conditioning services can make a difference on how your color lasts!