Hairdressing Terms Glossary: What Do They All Mean? (UK 2026)
Confused by hair salon terminology? Here's a plain-English glossary of the most common hairdressing terms you'll encounter in UK salons in 2026.
Common Hairdressing Terms Explained
Balayage
A French colouring technique where colour is painted freehand onto the hair to create a natural, sun-kissed effect. Looks less uniform than traditional highlights. Grows out gracefully with minimal harsh lines. UK price: £75–£180.
Ombré
A colour technique where hair graduates from darker at the roots to lighter at the ends. More defined and dramatic than balayage. UK price: £65–£130.
Highlights / Foils
Sections of hair are lightened using foils to create contrast. Can be fine or chunky. Full-head, half-head, or T-section (crown area only). UK price: £55–£140.
Gloss / Toner
A semi-permanent colour treatment applied after lightening to neutralise brassiness and add shine. Toners can cool down yellow/orange tones after bleaching. UK price: £20–£45.
Keratin Treatment / Smoothing
A treatment that uses keratin protein to temporarily straighten and smooth frizzy hair. Results last 3–5 months. UK price: £90–£250.
Blow-Dry
The styling step done after a cut or treatment. The hairdresser uses a round brush and a blow-dryer to smooth, add volume, or curl the hair. Most cut prices include a blow-dry.
Root Touch-Up / Root Colour
Colour applied only to the regrowth (the roots, typically 1–2 inches of new growth). Quicker and cheaper than a full-head colour. UK price: £40–£80.
Brazilian Blow-Out
A specific brand name for a keratin smoothing treatment. The term is often used generically for any professional smoothing treatment.
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle)
A nail product (not hair), but frequently confused. If your hairdresser mentions it they're confused too. See our nail guide for details.
Patch Test
A skin sensitivity test done 48 hours before any colour treatment. A small amount of the colour product is applied to the skin (usually behind the ear or inside the elbow) to check for allergic reactions. UK salons are legally required to perform patch tests.
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