Looking for a balayage in Manchester?
Hi, I’m Rebecca! I’m a freelance hairdresser with over 12 years’ experience creating beautiful, natural looking balayage highlights in Manchester city centre.
I specialise in freehand, hand-painted balayage techniques which create a natural, easy to maintain look. Whether that’s the classic blonde balayage to create a sunkissed look or something a little different. A soft brunette balayage is a more subtle way of giving your hair a new look or you can mix up the tone a bit and have a copper balayage. You can even use pinks or reds to add a flash of colour to your hair – it’s completely up to you!
If you’re looking to add some colour to your hair but want to avoid those harsh regrowth lines, you want to brighten up your hair but keep it low maintenance (you can get a balayage done just twice a year if you want to extend the gap between your colour appointments) or you still like to see your natural colour and roots, a balayage is the perfect hair colour appointment for you.
Book your balayage or free, no obligation consultation to discuss what’s right for you today!
Quick note: anyone having a colour service with me for the first time will need to pop into the salon at least 48 hours before to get a patch test. I’ll get in touch to arrange this once you’ve booked in.
Pricing
My balayage prices are:
– Full/half head balayage & toner with express blow dry: £195.70/£164.80
– Full/half head balayage & toner with haircut: £236.90/£206
– Balayage with root coverage & toner: £236.90 with haircut, £195.70 with express blow dry.
All prices include:
– A warm welcome into my beautiful salon space on Whitworth Street
– Unlimited free drinks
– An in-depth consultation where I’ll work with you to figure out the perfect style for you
– A relaxing head massage coupled with a conditioner perfect for your hair type
– A beautiful balayage designed to last
– No hard selling of expensive products. In fact, no selling at all!
– Complete blissful quiet if you need it
– A lovely chat if you’re feeling social
The difference between a full and half head balayage
Not sure if a full or half head is right for you? Here’s a quick summary of the two to help you out:
Full head
A full head balayage covers (you guessed it!) all of your hair. This includes the underneath, sides and top (without going to the root). It’s perfect for anyone with longer hair who wants to add depth and colour to their hair throughout.
Half head
A half head balayage, on the other hand, doesn’t cover underneath your hair. This makes it perfect for a top-up between full head appointments, if you want to add dimension to your hair using your own colour as a lowlight or you have shorter hair like a bob and are looking for the balayage effect.
What my clients think
Hannah Redsky
3 days ago
This was my first haircut with Rebecca and she was amazing. She really listened during the consultation but added her own expertise to make suggestions that would work better for my hair type. She was friendly and professional and put me at ease. I do find getting my haircut makes me nervous and I don't like having to make small talk but just knowing that Rebecca understands that and respects it actually made me so chatty!! It was like the pressure was removed to chat so I felt more comfortable to. The haircut she gave me was lovely and I know it'll get better as my hair recovers from heat damage. The salon space is clean, calm and relaxing too. I would highly recommend!
Fi Hilton
5 days ago
Rebecca has helped me transform my hair colour after years of using black box dye to achieving the perfect chocolate brown with highlights for my wedding. She was always on hand with suggestions and prioritised the health of my hair.
She always creates a relaxing environment and understands that I use my appointments to relax and catch up on reading. As some one with Autism and ADHD I use to dread going to the hairdressers, now its something I look forward to.
Highly recommend Rebecca to anyone!
She always creates a relaxing environment and understands that I use my appointments to relax and catch up on reading. As some one with Autism and ADHD I use to dread going to the hairdressers, now its something I look forward to.
Highly recommend Rebecca to anyone!
Faye
1 week ago
Rebecca is a great hairdresser, thorough consultation & my cut is exactly how I wanted. Friendly & warm. Highly recommend for curly hair.
Abigail Fernandes
3 weeks ago
Got my curly hair cut to the exact length and shape I wanted- would highly recommend Rebecca for curly hair
Rebecca L
4 weeks ago
I had my first appointment with Rebecca this week, to start the grey blending process, following a very thorough consultation prior. I absolutely love the outcome! Rebecca was professional yet personable and friendly. She spent time listening to what I was aiming to achieve and provided advice and suggestions as to what would suit my face, in terms of cut and colour, in terms of skin tone. I am already looking forward to my second appointment.
Olivia Hemingway
1 month ago
Rebecca is a phenomenal hairdresser! I went with apprehension after some awful haircuts and she not only put me at ease but brought life to my hair. Absolute hair magician, I won’t be going anywhere else! Would 1000% would recommend
Kathy Stott
1 month ago
Rebecca took a great deal of care to achieve outstanding grey blending. Extremely happy! Lovely hair cut too 😊
Maria Scaife
1 month ago
Rebecca is really lovely, really listens and the salon is really nice and airy too. There's also no additional charge for a curly cut which I appreciated
Zairah Buksh
1 month ago
I was a little nervous trying a new hairdresser, but from the moment I sat down with Rebecca I felt completely heard and listened to. She is such a genuinely lovely person and a complete professional, it’s clear she really is an expert at what she does.
The studio itself is really comfortable, not too loud, with lots of beautiful natural light. Hands down the best haircut experience I’ve ever had.
The cut itself was perfect and exactly what I wanted, I’m so happy with the result. I won’t be going anywhere else!
The studio itself is really comfortable, not too loud, with lots of beautiful natural light. Hands down the best haircut experience I’ve ever had.
The cut itself was perfect and exactly what I wanted, I’m so happy with the result. I won’t be going anywhere else!
Isobel Forsyth
1 month ago
I have never had a curly hair cut before. Normally, when I go to the hairdressers they either straighten it or I do it before I go. Rebecca was very understanding that my curl pattern isn’t consistent and recommend a really nice trim! She’s lovely, will definitely be back!
Emily Gatt
2 months ago
I came to see Rebecca for a consultation after a very disappointing time at a completely different salon. She listened to exactly what I was asking for and guided me through the whole process of what she could do for me.
During the haircut, Rebecca was very gentle throughout, checking thoroughly that it was all even and that I was happy with my hair. She did the most fantastic job with layering to reduce the thickness of my hair and fix the shape overall. I felt very well cared for in this salon, everyone was very professional and friendly.
The whole place is clean, organised, and even the plants were well tended to.
During the haircut, Rebecca was very gentle throughout, checking thoroughly that it was all even and that I was happy with my hair. She did the most fantastic job with layering to reduce the thickness of my hair and fix the shape overall. I felt very well cared for in this salon, everyone was very professional and friendly.
The whole place is clean, organised, and even the plants were well tended to.
enfys mai
2 months ago
Lovely environment, hair wash and head massage was so relaxing. Got my first pixie and I am very happy with it, Rebecca was really helpful with my questions and suggestions about the haircut, making sure it fit my vision. Loved it!
Lauren Thomson
2 months ago
I had a grey blending colour service and it was everything I’d hoped and more. After multiple attempts elsewhere I’m thrilled to have found Rebecca. My hair looks beautiful and the colour so natural. The cut is hands down the best I’ve ever had too, I’m so pleased !
scarlett howarth
3 months ago
Love my new hair! Rebecca made me feel at ease and did an amazing job. I’ll definitely be back 😊
Cat White
3 months ago
First time at Rebecca Johnston Hair.
Really enjoyed my visit and am loving my new cut. I'll be back.
Really enjoyed my visit and am loving my new cut. I'll be back.
Nikki Ratcliffe
3 months ago
Info- first time customer. Curly hair.
I had a consultation with Rebecca because I didn't really know what I want. I had come after having my hair done at another place where they had taken a lot of weight and thickness from my hair. We had a really good conversation about what I didn't like currently and what she could do to give my hair more volume and shape as well as a realitic timeline of when my hair would be thicker again. She listened and i felt she understood and prioritised what I wanted. She also asked what my usual styling routine was and asked what I preffered she do (I've never had that before at other places)
The head massage while getting my hair washed could have sent me to sleep it was really good. Throughout the cut Rebecca made nice conversation as well as talk me through which parts she was blending in my hair. She let me check the feel of my hair throughout the cut and then styled it and diffused.
It looks amazing and my curls lasted even after being tied back for the gym. I am so happy I've booked straight back in for another 3months.
I had a consultation with Rebecca because I didn't really know what I want. I had come after having my hair done at another place where they had taken a lot of weight and thickness from my hair. We had a really good conversation about what I didn't like currently and what she could do to give my hair more volume and shape as well as a realitic timeline of when my hair would be thicker again. She listened and i felt she understood and prioritised what I wanted. She also asked what my usual styling routine was and asked what I preffered she do (I've never had that before at other places)
The head massage while getting my hair washed could have sent me to sleep it was really good. Throughout the cut Rebecca made nice conversation as well as talk me through which parts she was blending in my hair. She let me check the feel of my hair throughout the cut and then styled it and diffused.
It looks amazing and my curls lasted even after being tied back for the gym. I am so happy I've booked straight back in for another 3months.
MB
3 months ago
Marrigje Nell
3 months ago
Rebecca takes the time to listen and did an amazing job! Would recommend
Abigail T
3 months ago
Rebecca is brilliant. I started seeing Rebecca about 6 years ago, feeling frustrated with poor curly hair cuts and unhappy with my hair. Rebecca totally transformed my hair (it's full of curls and life now) and I could not be happier with how my hair is. She has been consistently excellent. She's also incredibly lovely, always makes you feel welcome and comfortable. I couldn't recommend Rebecca more, especially for those with curly hair.
Amy Jones
3 months ago
I found Rebecca while searching for a new hairdresser after a series of bad haircuts had left me hating how I looked.
I have a facial difference that I’m self-conscious of. This means I avoid change as I struggle to talk to new people because it exposes my facial difference. When I heard Rebecca offered silent haircuts, I was sold.
Not only was my first haircut with Rebecca the most stress-free haircut I’ve ever had (thanks to how lovely Rebecca was and how seamlessly she transitioned from a consultation to the silent cut), she also worked an absolute miracle with my hair. It was such a relief to not hate my hair anymore. I honestly didn’t think my hair was salvageable and thought I would be looking at 6 months of growing it out, but one haircut with Rebecca made such a big difference.
I’ve also recently had my fringe trimmed with Rebecca, and it was the quickest, most perfect fringe trim I’ve ever had. I’ve never been so happy with a fringe trim.
I’m so thrilled to have found Rebecca and discovered the silent haircut!
I have a facial difference that I’m self-conscious of. This means I avoid change as I struggle to talk to new people because it exposes my facial difference. When I heard Rebecca offered silent haircuts, I was sold.
Not only was my first haircut with Rebecca the most stress-free haircut I’ve ever had (thanks to how lovely Rebecca was and how seamlessly she transitioned from a consultation to the silent cut), she also worked an absolute miracle with my hair. It was such a relief to not hate my hair anymore. I honestly didn’t think my hair was salvageable and thought I would be looking at 6 months of growing it out, but one haircut with Rebecca made such a big difference.
I’ve also recently had my fringe trimmed with Rebecca, and it was the quickest, most perfect fringe trim I’ve ever had. I’ve never been so happy with a fringe trim.
I’m so thrilled to have found Rebecca and discovered the silent haircut!
Laura Bain
3 months ago
I was worried about going to a hairdressers because I usually do my hair myself and I had box dye in but Rebecca made me feel so comfortable and welcome! She took great care of my hair health and I am getting lots of compliments!!
Alison Lawton
5 months ago
Great cut and Rebecca took lots of time showing me how to style myself which I really appreciated
Flora Amery
6 months ago
Annabel Toase
6 months ago
Fantastic.
Aways been a bit wary going to the hairdresser but Rebecca made me feel at ease the entire time. She gave me her honest opinion on a hair cut that I had wanted and I will definitely be returning.
A xx
Aways been a bit wary going to the hairdresser but Rebecca made me feel at ease the entire time. She gave me her honest opinion on a hair cut that I had wanted and I will definitely be returning.
A xx
Swift Simmer
6 months ago
Definitely worth the train journey there. Love my hair. Wouldn't hesitate to go back again. Money well spent. Rebecca is really friendly and will listen but also suggest things. You're in good hands.Thank you.
Jenna Dennison
7 months ago
Came along for a blow dry for an event, thank you
Ruby Keylock
8 months ago
Lovely hairdresser and listened so well (as i can be quite particular) ! First time going short and i’m in love with it and how it’s growing out. Best hairdresser i’ve had in Manchester, will be booking to go back again on the new year :))
Maritina Markopoulou
8 months ago
I recently visited Rebecca for a haircut, and I am very happy with the result!!! She was very friendly and welcoming. What really stood out was how attentive she was to my hair concerns, she listened carefully and made me feel comfortable with every step.
The haircut is great!
Really love it and suits me well!!!!!
I highly recommend Rebecca and I am definitely going back for my next haircut.
The haircut is great!
Really love it and suits me well!!!!!
I highly recommend Rebecca and I am definitely going back for my next haircut.
Aliyah Rennison
9 months ago
Love my haircut, Rebecca did a great job with my curls!
Dhara Nayak
10 months ago
Very happy about my haircut! Freshened up my look very much. I will be back for another restyle.
P Cheung
12 months ago
Rebecca was lovely and very considerate. At my first appointment, as soon as I arrived I felt welcomed. From washing my hair to combing, cutting and blow-drying Rebecca was very gentle, it was a very relaxing experience which I haven't had from a hair salon for a very long time. She listened attentively to what I wanted and it turned out better which showcases her experience. I would definitely return again, highly recommend.
Vita Barnes
12 months ago
I absolutely love my new hair! Rebecca did a wonderful job and I am so happy with the end result, thank you!
Caroline Rossiter
12 months ago
All good
Alice N
12 months ago
I really love my haircut and Rebecca made me feel very comfortable and listened to during the appointment 🙂
Minahil Hassan Tariq
12 months ago
Rebecca was amazing! I went from long hair to a short cut and she completely transformed my look. She styled it just like the photo I showed her and also gave great advice on what would suit me best. Super friendly, really listened, and didn’t rush anything. The salon was lovely too. Left feeling so happy with my new hair—highly recommend!
Emman Al-Jarah
12 months ago
rosie harrison
1 year ago
New to Manchester and I've been really stressing about finding a curly hair hairdresser. No need to stress anymore, Rebecca was amazing with my hair and showing me how to style it! Great headmassage, nearly fell asleep.
Katie Moran
1 year ago
Love my hair cut and colour so much! It was exactly what I asked for. Thank you 🙏
Alice Birdwood
1 year ago
Rebecca gave me a gorgeous French bob and I love it. She’s so talented. I’m really pleased I found her
Cechir Olga
1 year ago
Rebecca just got a haircut—and let me tell you, the compliments have been non-stop. I’ve never heard this many people rave about a new look in my life. It’s like the haircut unlocked a new level of confidence and style. Fresh, bold, and effortlessly chic—Rebecca is absolutely owning it.
Monica Westin
1 year ago
Rebecca is brilliant- meticulous but intuitive, a genius at working with blonde tones. I left with the best highlights I’ve had in years, with a great cut as well as colour designed to grow out beautifully. She’s friendly, calm, and organized— just a wonderful soul. Highly recommends
Dana Flynn
1 year ago
Rebecca really took time to hear what I wanted and what I didn't want in terms of a hair style. I'm super pleased with my cut!
Scarlett Letters
1 year ago
Very professional, lovely and friendly manner. Really appreciated Rebecca and love the hair. Thank you
Paoletta Camboni
1 year ago
Just had my haircut with Rebecca and she did an amazing job! I’m really happy with the result — she listened to exactly what I wanted and made it even better. Highly recommend her!
Maisy Kincaid
1 year ago
I’m so glad I found Rebecca! From the moment I sat in the chair, she really took the time to listen to what I wanted and helped me figure out a style that not only suited me but was easy to recreate at home with the products and tools I already have. The hair massage was absolute heaven — so relaxing I nearly fell asleep! I left the salon feeling amazing and truly loving my hair again. Can’t wait for my next visit! 💞
Ian Roberts
1 year ago
Soph
1 year ago
Absolutely love my hair! It was my first time going to Rebecca and she did an amazing job. She made me feel at ease and spoke to me throughout about the whole process. I’ve had so many compliments about my hair already! such a lovely person also, I highly recommend x
Catherine McNaughton
1 year ago
Beth Sams
1 year ago
Best haircut of my life!! Rebecca was so lovely and did the most amazing job of my hair. All my friends want to go to her now
Robyn Feeney
1 year ago
I honestly don't know what I'd do without Rebecca! I felt a bit lost with my hair after moving but she’s been my hairdresser for two years now and she always works her magic. My hair always looks and feels incredible after she's done. Her haircuts are consistently perfect, and those head massages? Pure bliss. She's just so lovely, and I really appreciate how she completely respects my silent appointments – it's so relaxing. Plus, the online booking is super simple to navigate. I leave every appointment feeling absolutely thrilled with my hair. She's truly talented and makes every visit such a positive experience.
Sarah Szczur
1 year ago
Sam Hall
1 year ago
Rebecca is fabulous! She did a great colour and style for me - definitely recommend.
Sarah Plant
1 year ago
Rebecca took the time to listen to what I hoped could be achieved with my hair and she got the end result spot on, delivering the colour outcome I hoped for whilst being able to maintain the condition of my hair. Really, really pleased and will definitely be back!
aude france
1 year ago
Highly recommend Rebecca, she really is at the top of her game. From the welcoming and warm consultation- honest considered options from someone who really listens. Relaxing hair wash and super boosting massage to a precision cut, blow dry and straightening finish Rebecca truly gives 100%. I chose the ‘silent’ session option and it give time for a relaxing experience and does not feel uncomfortable at any point. ✂️
Jane
1 year ago
Feeling fabulous following a recent appointment with Rebecca for Highlights/Toner. It was my first appointment with Rebecca, her consultation was thorough, listening to what I was looking to achieve and responding with lots of suggestions and advice which gave me great confidence that I was in safe hands. I was very well looked after throughout the appointment and am still not sure how I didn't fall asleep after the wonderful head massage 🙂 the result was exactly was I was hoping for, I love it, thank you so much.
A&C Chartered Accountants
1 year ago
I had my hair done by Rebecca on Thursday at i absolutely love it and she was so accommodating with my daughter too who came with me! It was also the best head massage ever and the salon is great! Thank you so much. I can’t wait to come back.
Judi Blakeburn
2 years ago
Rebecca was lovely - put me at complete ease and gave me a lovely haircut
Cassie-Jo Gormley
2 years ago
A lovely, welcoming salon, very clean & modern. Rebecca listened and talked me through my styling request and I left feeling a new woman with plenty of compliments on my hair cut! Would definitely recommended the salon and Rebecca.
Lynsey Toase
2 years ago
Rebecca is an amazing hairdresser & has been colouring & cutting my hair for a few years; she’s attentive, talented & I’m always happy with the end result after seeing her. Would highly recommend her.
Bel
2 years ago
Rebecca was very patient and took a real interest in the way I wanted my hair cut. She took time to look at photos of different styles and we got there in the end. It must be difficult when a new head comes along but will return in the new year. Very pleased
Susan O'Flynn
2 years ago
First time appointment and I'll absolutely be returning! Rebecca was super knowledgable and talented, but also very friendly. Cannot recommend more highly!
Anna Perkins
2 years ago
Rebecca has done my hair for years now and never disappoints! She is very friendly, puts you at ease and takes great care to understand what you're hoping to achieve with your hair. She's made sure my hair stays in great condition whilst colouring it for many years and does a great cut. Would recommend 🤗
Linda McMullin
2 years ago
Rebecca has been doing my hair for a number of years now, and is an amazing hairdresser. She understands my thick wild hair and brings it under control at each visit. Nothing is too much trouble for her from changing my coloured hair to going "au natural", she really gave me the confidence to go ahead with the change.
Rebecca is back doing my hair after I've had a recent operation and I'm so glad to be at the salon with her. Thank you my amazing hairdresser.
Rebecca is back doing my hair after I've had a recent operation and I'm so glad to be at the salon with her. Thank you my amazing hairdresser.
Karina Eatough
2 years ago
Rebecca is amazing! She always listens to what you ask for and I’m always so pleased with my hair. Thank you!
Abbie Copley
2 years ago
Rebecca has done my hair for nearly two years now. I’m always really pleased whenever I leave! I travel over a hour to get to the salon and it’s worth it every time. Would 100% recommend!
Marlen Beesley
2 years ago
I’ve got curly hair and I’ve been Rebecca’s loyal customer for years. I can’t say enough good things about how professional she is.
She has been doing my hair colour and I am over the moon with the amazing results every time!
She is such a warm, friendly person and you can expect a great experience on every visit.
I strongly recommend Rebecca!
She has been doing my hair colour and I am over the moon with the amazing results every time!
She is such a warm, friendly person and you can expect a great experience on every visit.
I strongly recommend Rebecca!
Alison Trippier
2 years ago
New cut and colour with Rebecca, amazing as always. Nothing is too much trouble especially that last minute fringe trim for the super indecisive customer or those can you show me how you dry my fringe questions.
Sonia Ground (Sonia)
2 years ago
Rebecca is an amazing hairdresser!
Both my colour and cut is always amazing and exactly as I imagine.
Both my colour and cut is always amazing and exactly as I imagine.
Kath Bryan
2 years ago
Rebecca has been cutting and styling my hair for many years and have never had a bad cut ,this last time I had a full head colour and the results were amazing ,had loads of compliments and many people say they will give rebecca a try .thanks again rebecca very happy
Bea Middlehurst
2 years ago
Came to have my hair done with Rebecca and I loved the results! Amazing colour work and loved the haircut which framed my face. I felt totally refreshed when I left! If you want a professional service with someone who knows what she’s doing, you won’t be disappointed with the magic hands of Rebecca!
Izy Jude
2 years ago
Rebecca's been cutting my hair for years and has always done a fab job - highly recommend!
Chloe Andrews
2 years ago
Rebecca has given me some of my best ever cuts and colours, she’s super talented but also really kind, sensitive and calming 💓
Sofia Izquierdo Sanchez
2 years ago
I have visited Rebecca several times and I always had an amazing experience. She is very welcoming and makes you feel very comfortable. She took her time to listen to what I wanted and offered helpful suggestions that suited my style. I left the salon very happy and with a very stylish haircut. Highly recommend!
Fiona Bradbury
2 years ago
Rebecca is amazing. I always love my hair when Rebecca has done it. She is a miracle worker.
Fiona xx
Fiona xx
Amalia Diam
2 years ago
Rebecca's work is always so detailed and attentive and her experience truly shows in her recommendations about the right style and tone. I always get so many compliments about how natural blond my hair looks!
She's also genuinely such a warm and approachable person to be around, I always enjoy going back to the salon!
She's also genuinely such a warm and approachable person to be around, I always enjoy going back to the salon!
Colette V
2 years ago
Rebecca is such a fantastic hairdresser in every way! She always does a great consultation where she really takes the time to listen to what you’d like, offers different options and uses her years of experience and expertise to help me make my all important hair decisions. Every service with her is so relaxing as she creates a great environment. The results are always 10/10 from the colour to the styling. A real hidden gem in Manchester if you’re looking for a new stylist 😊
Bethany Johnston
2 years ago
Where do I start! Having been with Rebecca for years, she’s one of the few people I trust with my hair. Rebecca listens to every single thing that I ask for in my haircut, plus she gives her own recommendations as to what style would suit me best. She’s always so gentle when cutting hair, and her head massages are to die for!!! She’s always giving me tips on how to best maintain my hair and how to style it once it’s been cut. Not only does she do a great hair cut but her bouncy blow dries are amazing! I received so many comments on how much volume it had and it lasted me til the next day. If you’re looking for a hairdresser that’ll listen to you and give you a fantastic service, Rebecca is your girl.
Check out my Instagram
Want to check out my work or have a question you’d like to ask me? Check out my Instagram @rebeccajohnston.hair
Book a your balayage with me today
Ready to get your next balayage done? Book in with me today to get started! And if you’re not sure what to get, book a free, no-obligation consultation where we can sit down and spend up to half an hour discussing your hair goals in detail so you can be confident you’re getting the perfect look to suit you and your lifestyle.