Hair coloring costs $50 to $70 for a single color and $20 to $40 for each additional color or shade. Highlights cost $50 to $150 depending on the type, salon location, and hair length. Complex trends like Balayage, Babylights, or Ombre cost $100 to $150 or more.

A colorist will advise you on which colors best suit you and help you choose colors that will enhance and brighten your complexion. Most colorists recommend staying within three shades lighter or darker than your natural color.

Most salons recommend coloring your hair every 3 to 6 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows and how close to your natural color it is. Coloring regularly prevents noticeable differences between your roots and the dyed hair. Some salons charge less for a root touch-up than a full color.

Your scalp will handle hair coloring better when you wash your hair 2 to 3 days before your appointment. Hairdressers usually wash hair before coloring if it's dirty or has a lot of product buildup from hairspray, gel, or mousse. Coming in with dry, brushed hair with no product buildup can save time and money.

Hair appointments add up over time, but there are a few ways you can save some money:

• Bundle your hair coloring, cut, deep-conditioning, or other services in the same session.
• Wash your hair 2 to 3 days before your appointment and don't put any product in it. Some salons include washing in their prices, but some charge extra. The salon will recommend a wash if you have gel, mousse, or other buildup in your hair.
• Book a junior stylist instead of an experienced hairstylists. This comes with a risk, especially if you want an advanced style, but can save money.
• Don't buy products at the salon, which are marked up to make a profit. Find quality products with similar formulations at beauty supply stores or online.

Semi- and demi-permanent hair colors are both temporary dyes that vary in lifespan. Semi-permanent hair color only lasts 3 to 6 shampoos, while demi-permanent lasts 24 to 30 shampoos. Semi is a better choice when trying out a new color or coloring your hair for a special event.

Balayage costs $70 to $200 per session and is a type of freehand highlight that makes it look like the sun lightened your hair naturally. This technique blends a lighter color into the natural hair tone more easily instead of a harsh line between lighter and darker tones. Balayage requires a more experienced colorist because it's a more artistic, intuitive technique.

Highlights are lighter than your natural color, while lowlights are darker and add depth to your hair. Many hairstylists use a combination of highlights and lowlights to add contrast and volume. Lowlights are often less damaging, cost less, and blend more easily than highlights.

Start by searching our list of salons, then:

• Compare at least three free estimates.
• Explore reviews and pictures of their work on Fash and Google.
• Choose a salon that is licensed and experienced.
• Get a written estimate beforehand if possible.
• Make sure the colorist has experience with the kind of style you want.
• Pay after your appointment is done and you're satisfied with the results.

When looking for local hair salons, consider asking the following questions:

• How long have you been dyeing hair?
• Is this salon licensed and insured insured?
• Do you offer free consultations?
• What color would you recommend for me?
• How far in advance do I need to book?
• What products do you recommend for my hair?
• How long will this appointment take?
• How do you handle any damage or mistakes?