The glossed, glowing brunette shade to try now.
If you adore your dark hair but also want something shiny, then sparkle brunette balayage is the new technique for you. It boasts an incredible, light-catching shine and fluid movement, all without the commitment or upkeep of traditional highlights. Learn more about how to achieve that subtle shimmer that makes hair appear more radiant under every beam of light.
@danewakefieldhair
Just like any other balayage, it’s a hand-painted coloring technique, and it aims to create soft luminosity within brown tones. It is quite different from classic glossing or full highlights, as it features nano-highlights – superfine, precisely lightened strands that are lightened before getting blended with a root melt and then coated with a mid-to-end gloss.
“The larger the sections you take, the more dimension you will maintain. The smaller the sections, the less dimension – and the more overall lighter tone you will achieve,” explains hair colorist Sarayah Hernandez. The intention here is not to have a strong contrast but to create a reflective shine, so instead of visible streaks, you get the illusion of natural movement, like sunlight flickering through your strands.
To achieve this effect, colorists apply the formula only in the areas that surround the face frame, crown, and mid-lengths – the parts that light hits naturally the most. The result is a subtle glow that looks natural, not newly colored. Depending on your base shade and skin undertone, you can choose between cool espresso, neutral beige, warm caramel, or golden brown tones of balayage.
@colorbymarina
Tell your colorist you’d like a sparkle brunette balayage that increases shine, not contrast. Ask for subtle nano-highlights if you prefer an almost imperceptible glow, or request larger sections for more visible light play. You can also add a blended money piece to softly brighten your features. Your colorist will adjust the placement and tonality according to your haircut and skin tone.
@kimtran.colorist
This hair trend is easy to love for many reasons. First, it requires practically zero maintenance since highlights are painted freehand, making the grow-out less obvious and sparing you endless root appointments. Second, every skin tone can be perfectly flattered by this approach: cooler brunettes can choose from ashy or taupe sparkles, while warmer complexions glow with golden or amber reflections. And it’s seasonless, casting a glowing light throughout the year, whether through winter’s twilight or under the warm sunset in summer.
@leo_hausofvakai
To preserve the luminous effect, use a sulfate-free shampoo and apply a color-protecting mask once a week. Limit heat styling, and use a light-reflecting serum before blow-drying to maintain the shimmer. Get the gloss service done every 8-10 weeks to refresh the tone, or wait longer if you like a lived-in finish.
@itstommy.bb
Sparkle brunette balayage proves you don’t need to overhaul your hair color to see a difference – a slight color change can boost light, tone, and movement. Check our guide for more ideas on the brunette hairstyles that show the beauty of brown hair.
