I simply adore the French hand-painting technique of Balayage for transforming my brown locks to blonde. This freehand application of bleach creates a very natural and chunky highlighting effect that lasts much longer than conventional foil highlights and lusterizes the hair with a coat of "gloss" as the grand finale of the application.

Men & women stop and ask me about my hair everywhere I go -- almost 90% of them make appointments with my colorist. It seems people love the look of velvety blond highlights slightly contrast with naturally brown hair. My esteemed colorist, Lisa Cooper (formally of Frederic Fekkai NYC) is an expert at adorning gorgeous, flattering highlights to just about any color of hair. She is the Picasso of color. Since so many have asked, you can find her now at Jason Royce Salon in Woodbury, NY on Long Island (516) 367-8000. You can also email her at lcoop816@yahoo.com

Despite the beauty of Balayage, it can be a challenge to keep my color hair hydrated and moisturized. I am constantly trying shampoos and conditioners from all over the world that "protect color" and won't strip out moisture.

My latest obsession is Lamas Soy Hydrating Shampoo & Lamas Soy Balancing Conditioner for Chemically Treated, Dry, Damaged Hair. It smells like plump, delicious cherries. It makes my hair look and feel like SILK!!! It is made with Certified Organic Botanicals, plus Vitamins, Amino Acids and Soy Protein, nature's protein-rich revitalizer, designed to restore and strengthen chemically altered, dry, weak or damaged hair, root to ends.

It is fortified with Golden Seal, Chamomile and Yucca botanicals and is enriched with Panthenol (Vitamin B), Comfrey, Jojoba, and other botanicals to detangle, prevent split ends and flyaways.

Paraben Free, No Sodium Laurel or Laureth Sulfates, Won't affect or fade color, Won't weigh hair down or make limp, pH balanced, Environmentally friendly & cruelty free.

Labels: balayage, baliage, best hair color in new york, boliage, hair painting, highlights, Jason Royce, Lisa Cooper, long island