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Brown hair is always fashionable: trends and inspiring looks

by Lotte Lindgren on Jul 02, 2023

Excellent Based on 3439 reviews
Dorthe Kristensen

Read through by Dorthe Kristensen

Hairdresser and former co-owner of the award-winning hairdressing chain Zoom by Zoom
With many years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Dorthe has advised many customers about hair and hair care. Dorthe has read through this blog entry to ensure high quality and professionalism. This blog post is professionally updated on September 24, 2024.

Table of contents

Brown hair is a popular hair color that can give you a natural and soft look. But what exactly is brown hair? In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about brown hair and especially light brown hair – everything from preparation and coloring to maintenance and styling. Brown hair is one of the most versatile colors because it comes in a variety of shades, from deep chocolate brown to soft, light brown. This variation allows it to be adapted to any personal style and facial features, which is one of the reasons why it is a timeless favorite. Read on for tips and tricks to achieve the perfect shade of brown hair.

    What is brown hair?

    Brown hair refers to a hair color that varies in shades of brown. It can include dark brown, chestnut brown, chocolate brown, and light brown hair. This versatility means that brown hair suits many different skin tones and personal styles. Brown hair can have different undertones and intensities of brown, providing variation and the opportunity to tailor the color to any style. It is a popular hair color that can give a natural and soft appearance.

    Woman with brown hair

    What is light brown hair?

    Light brown hair is a hair color that can range from a light shade of brown to a dark blonde color. It is often a popular choice for those looking to subtly upgrade or change their natural hair color. One advantage of light brown hair is that it generally looks natural and complements most skin tones. However, it sometimes requires more maintenance than other hair colors to keep the color fresh and shiny. Regular use of color-protecting shampoo and conditioner can help maintain the color's intensity and prevent it from fading quickly.

    Light brown hair is a popular hair color that suits most skin tones and can be achieved in a variety of ways, including using at-home coloring kits or at a hairdresser.

    There are different methods of achieving light brown hair. Some people choose to go to the hairdresser and have streaks, babylights or balayage technique done in their hair to gradually reach the desired tone of light brown. Others prefer self-dyeing with home coloring kits or toning shampoos specially designed for this purpose. It is important to always follow the instructions carefully and test the color on a small area before applying it throughout your hair, as the result may vary depending on your original hair color and the quality of the product you use.

    woman with light brown hair

    The difference between light brown and dark brown hair

    Studies of color pigments show that light brown hair contains less melanin than dark brown hair, giving it a lighter shade. The reflection of light on the two hair colors is also different - where the light is absorbed more in the dark brown hair and reflected more in the light brown.

    It can be difficult for some to distinguish between these two shades of brown hair. A good way to do this is by using natural light: If your hair looks almost black in low light or shaded areas, it is likely dark brown; if the color looks lighter or warmer in the same lighting, then you have light brown hair. Dark brown hair typically has a more intense depth, giving a more dramatic look, while light brown hair can provide a softer and more subtle expression.

    Advantages and disadvantages of dyeing your hair light brown

    Advantages of dyeing your hair light brown include a more vibrant hair color that can add extra shine and depth to your brown hair. It can also be a good choice if you want to soften the face or create contrast with your skin tone.

    But the disadvantages should also be considered, as frequent dyeing can lead to potential damage to the hair such as dryness and split ends. This is especially true if your hair is already weakened by previous chemical treatments. dyeing the hair can also make it more susceptible to environmental damage, such as sun's UV rays and heat from styling tools, which can lead to further damage if the hair is not properly cared for. Regular use of heat-protective products and a good moisturizing hair mask can help minimize these damages.

    before you begin the process of dyeing your hair light brown, it is important to consider some factors to avoid undesirable results. always take into account your natural hair color and texture as well as the products and ingredients used in the dye. For example, people with very dark hair may need bleaching before dyeing, which can be harsh on the hair. A professional hairdresser will be able to guide you best in terms of the most suitable treatment depending on your individual needs and desires. They can also recommend products that help protect and care for the hair both before and after dyeing to maintain the hair's health and the longevity of the color.

    Preparing to dye your hair light brown

    before dyeing your hair light brown, it is important to ensure that your hair is healthy and not damaged. First, examine your hair type and follow a hair care routine that will help maintain its health. Next, consider whether you want to dye all of your hair or add highlights. If your hair has already been chemically treated before, seek advice from a hairdresser before self-treatment. This can help you avoid potential damage, as previous treatments may have weakened the hair's structure.

    When it comes to coloring brown hair to light brown, it requires a bit more preparation compared to other tones. It may be necessary to lighten the hair first using bleach to achieve the desired shade. You also need to be cautious with sunlight, heat styling tools after dyeing, as they can damage the newly dyed structure in the hair. It is recommended to use products with UV protection as well as heat-protective spray when styling your hair to maintain both the health of the hair and the intensity of the color.

    Decision on dyeing the whole hair or streaks

    Dyeing your hair light brown may require considerations about different hair color tones. Get professional guidance from a hairdresser and consider skin tone and personal style when making the decision. If you want a light brown look, it can be challenging to choose between dyeing all of your hair or getting highlights. Here are some tips to help you make your decision:

    • Consider different shades of light brown to find the right tone for you
    • Get advice and guidance from a professional hairdresser on what will look good on your particular hair
    • Always take your skin tone into consideration before choosing a new hair color
    • Think about your personal style and whether the new hair color matches it

    Making the choice between full dyeing or stripes depends a lot on your preferences as well as your maintenance requirements. It's best to search for inspiration before making this big decision, so hurry over to Pinterest! It can be difficult to choose the perfect hair color and what suits you best? Should you have a full colouring, should you have highlights or highlights in your hair to get some play in your hair? There are many good questions to consider. You can read our big guide on colored hair here. 

    coloring of hair

    Tips and tricks to dye your hair light brown

    To achieve a beautiful light brown hair color, it is important to choose the right dye. Choose a color that matches your natural hair color and consider any previous dye jobs on your hair. It is important to be aware of how your current hair color will affect the final result. Preparation is also crucial for a good result - make sure to wash your hair thoroughly and avoid styling products before dyeing.

    After color care can be just as important as the coloring itself. Use a quality conditioner that can protect and hydrate your hair after the treatment. Avoid heat styling for the first few days after coloring and use sun protection on your locks to avoid bleaching from the sun's rays.

    Product with UV protection

    When it comes to dying your hair light brown, it's always a good idea to see a professional hairdresser. Here are some reasons why it is important to get professional help with this process:

    1. Expertise and experience: A hairdresser has the necessary expertise and experience in hair colouring. They will be able to guide you on the different shades of light brown that will look good on your particular hair and match your skin tone.

    2. Tailored advice: A hairdresser will be able to give you advice tailored to your individual needs. They will take into account your hair colour, texture, condition and any previous dyes before recommending the best way to achieve the desired light brown colour.

    3. Professional products: Hairdressers have access to professional hair color products that are of high quality and provide a more uniform and durable result. These products are also gentle on the hair and reduce the risk of damage and discolouration.

    4. Assurance of the result: When you have your hair colored by a professional hairdresser, you can be confident that the result will be as desired. A hairdresser will be able to achieve the desired light brown color and ensure that it perfectly suits your skin tone and face shape.

    5. Maintenance and aftercare: A hairdresser will also be able to give you advice on how best to maintain and care for your new hair colour. They can recommend specific products for colored hair and give you tips to extend the life of the color and keep it in optimal condition.

    When considering dyeing your hair light brown, it's important to consider your own preferences and maintenance requirements. Getting the help of a professional hairdresser can be crucial to achieving the best result. So don't be afraid to seek expert advice when it comes to coloring your hair - it will be worth it in the end!

    Use of dye

    Choose the right color shade based on your skin tone. Your skin tone can have a big impact on how hair color will look on you. If you have a lighter skin tone, it may be best to choose a cooler light brown shade. Similarly, warmer light brown tones will suit people with darker and more olive skin.

    Follow the instructions carefully to avoid damage to the hair. It is important to follow all instructions in the instructions for mixing the dye and the time of exposure carefully. Do not use the product more often than indicated or for longer than the recommended time.

    Test the dye on a small section of your hair to see the result first. You never know exactly how your current hair color will react with the new colored tone, so it is always wise to test the product first using a small piece of hair from the bottom of your head or other invisible place in your hair - this allowing you to adjust in a timely manner and protect the rest of your hair from any unexpected results.

    Preparation of the hair before dyeing

    Wash your hair the day before so it is not greasy or dirty. This will make the coloring more even and effective. Protect your clothes and surrounding surfaces from stains from the dye by placing an old towel around you and on the floor below you. Brush your hair well to remove any tangles that can result in unevenly colored hair.

    • Wash your hair the day before
    • Protect clothing and surrounding surfaces with an old towel
    • Brush hair thoroughly to achieve an even color in your brown or light brown hair

    Post-treatment of dyeing

    Rinse your hair thoroughly with cold water after finishing the coloring to close the hair cuticles. This will help preserve the color and prevent it from fading quickly. Apply a moisturizing and nourishing mask or conditioner to restore moisture to the hair after the treatment. This is important because the coloring can have dried your hair out further. A good hair mask rich in nutrients can strengthen the hair and make it more resistant to future damage.

    Avoid heat styling tools for the first few days after dyeing, as they can dry out the hair further and shorten the durability of your new light brown shade. Remember these tips for a healthy and beautiful result! With regular care, you can ensure that your color remains vibrant, and your hair remains strong and healthy.

    Woman puts hair mask on her brown hair

    How to maintain the color of light brown hair

    Light brown hair is beautiful, but it can fade over time. Use color-protecting shampoo to maintain the color and avoid washing your hair too often with regular shampoo, as it will dry out the hair. Color-protecting shampoos are specifically designed to protect colored hair and can help extend the intensity of the color. Also, avoid heat styling such as blow-drying and flat-ironing, as it can damage the hair and make the color dull. If you need to use heat styling tools, it is important always to use a heat-protective spray to minimize damage. It can also be a good idea to reduce the temperature on your styling tools to further protect the hair.

    Regular maintenance with a good hair mask or conditioner will keep your light brown hair healthy and radiant for a long time. To avoid color fading, you can also protect your hair from the sun by using UV-protective hair products or wearing a hat when you are outdoors. This will prevent the sun from bleaching your light brown shade.

    Use of color protecting shampoo

    For the perfect light brown hair with color-protecting shampoo, it is important to choose a shampoo with lighter tones than your current hair color. This way, you can easily achieve a natural and beautiful color that suits your face. To maintain the color longer, avoid frequent hair washing - this way, the shampoo will have the opportunity to penetrate deeper into the hair shaft and provide a more lasting result. Gently massage the shampoo into the scalp and pull it down through the lengths, ensuring that the color covers the entire hair evenly. Don't forget always to follow the instructions on the product for optimal results! With regular use of color-protecting shampoo, you can maintain the desired shade of light brown hair for longer while keeping the hair healthy and shiny.

    Avoiding heat styling

    Use a heat protectant spray before styling your hair with hot tools. This will protect the hair from damage and preserve the color for a longer time. Also, let your hair air dry or use a diffuser at a low temperature to avoid further damage to the hair surface and color. Consider alternative styling methods such as braids , heat-free curls , or other hair styles that require less heat styling. In this way, you can achieve the desired look without compromising on the health and appearance of your light brown hair. Avoiding heat styling as often as possible also helps extend the hair's shine and protect the color from fading quickly.

    Heat styling

    Regular maintenance

    Visit your hairdresser regularly for trimming and any necessary touch-ups of the color. This will help maintain the light brown color, so it does not fade or become uneven over time. Regular hairdresser visits also help keep your ends healthy and prevent split ends, which is especially important if your hair has been chemically treated. If you notice the color starting to fade or lose its shine, a professional treatment can rejuvenate it.

    Apply a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week to nourish the hair and maintain its health. A conditioning treatment will help moisturize your hair and protect it from damage.

    Do not experiment with homemade mixtures yourself. Let professionals handle it. Although some homemade recipes may seem attractive as a cheaper alternative to professional products, there is no guarantee of the result, and the risk of damage to your hair is greater, especially if you have colored brown hair that is already chemically treated. Professional products are designed to care for and protect your hair during treatment, while homemade mixtures are often too harsh.

    Different hair colours for brown hair

    If you are unsure which hair color suits your brown hair best, we will take you through some variants of brown hair that are very popular here. There are a plethora of options when it comes to highlighting or changing the shade of brown hair, depending on the style you want.

    Light streaks in brown hair

    Light highlights in brown hair are truly a lovely way to add life and depth to your hairstyle. The light highlights can give your hair a natural, sun-kissed look that highlights the face and gives your style a fresh boost. You can choose from soft balayage highlights to more dramatic contrasts in your brown hair, making it perfect for your taste and hair type. It is a fantastic way to create movement and depth in the hair while still looking natural and elegant. Whether you go for a soft sun-kissed effect or a more daring change, light highlights in brown hair are a classic that always looks modern and stylish.

    Balayage in brown hair

    Balayage in brown hair is a great way to add depth and dimension to your hairstyle. This technique, where the colour is painted onto the hair freehand, gives a natural and sun-kissed look that is both timeless and elegant. With balayage, you can create soft transitions and a look that looks like you spent a summer at the beach. The best thing about balayage is that it requires minimal maintenance as the colour grows out naturally. This makes it a perfect choice for those who want a stylish and low-maintenance look. Whether you're going for subtle highlights or more striking contrasts, balayage in brown hair is a beautiful and modern solution.

    Dark brown hair

    Dark brown hair is both classic and elegant, and it's a hair colour that never goes out of style. This rich, deep colour highlights your facial features and contrasts beautifully with all skin tones. Dark brown hair can be styled in countless ways, from sleek and sophisticated looks to loose, wavy hairstyles. The colour has a natural shine that makes hair healthy and vibrant, which is a great advantage if you want a stylish and well-groomed look. Dark brown hair is also a great base for highlights and balayage, allowing you to add even more dimension and movement. Whether you prefer a natural style or something more dramatic, dark brown hair is a versatile and beautiful choice.

    Caramel coloured hair

    Caramel coloured hair is a beautiful and versatile shade that adds warmth and glow to your hairstyle. This rich, golden colour is great for both light and dark skin tones and can really make your facial features shine. Caramel coloured hair is perfect if you want to achieve a natural sun-kissed look without having to spend hours in the sun. It can be styled in many ways, from soft waves to smooth and elegant hairstyles, and the colour always looks luxurious and vibrant. The caramel colour can also be combined with other techniques like balayage or ombre to create depth and dimension in the hair. Whether you want a subtle change or a more significant transformation, caramel coloured hair is a great choice that always looks modern and sophisticated.

    Auburn hair

    Auburn hair is a great way to add warmth and depth to your hairstyle. This unique colour combines the best of both red and brown, resulting in a rich and vibrant hue that really stands out. Auburn hair goes well with all skin tones and can give your style a breath of fresh air. The colour naturally enhances your skin's glow and can make your eyes more intense. It's also a versatile colour that looks great in both straight and curly hairstyles. Auburn hair can be styled with highlights or balayage to add even more dimension and life to your hair. Whether you want a subtle change or a more eye-catching look, auburn hair is a timeless and sophisticated option that always looks great.

    Which shade of brown hair will suit me best?

    When choosing the perfect shade of brown hair, it's important to consider the undertone of your skin. Generally, there are two types of undertones: warm and cool. If you have a warm undertone, brown shades with golden or caramel tones will enhance your natural glow. On the other hand, if you have a cool undertone, ash brown or dark chocolate brown will complement your skin and give a sophisticated, balanced look.

    An easy way to find out if you have a warm or cool undertone is to look at the color of your veins on your wrist. If your veins appear greenish, you likely have a warm undertone. If they appear bluish, you have a cool undertone. If you're having trouble determining this, you may be neutral, which means you can wear both warm and cool shades of brown hair equally well.

    Understanding your undertone will help you choose the shade of brown hair that highlights your best features and creates balance in your overall look.

    What hairstyles are best for brown hair?

    When it comes to choosing the perfect hairstyle for brown hair, there are many options to consider. Brown hair is known for its versatility and ability to look good in different styles. However, a hairstyle that suits brown hair best depends on your personal style and face shape.

    If you have brown hair and a round face shape, consider a hairstyle with long layers or a side part. These hairstyles can create the illusion of length and help lengthen your face visually. Avoid hairstyles that add volume to the sides, as this can make your face look even rounder.

    If, on the other hand, you have brown hair and a square face shape, you can consider a hairstyle with soft waves or curls. These hairstyles can help soften facial features and add movement to your hair. Avoid hairstyles that are too sharply parted or symmetrical, as this can accentuate the square shape of the face.

    If you have brown hair and an oval face shape, you may be in luck as almost any hairstyle will look good on you. You can experiment with different lengths, layers and styles without worrying about accentuating certain facial features.

    Regardless of your face shape and personal style, it's important to choose a hairstyle that suits your hair length and texture. If you have thick and curly brown hair, a hairstyle with long layers can help reduce volume and make the hair more manageable. If, on the other hand, you have thin and fine brown hair, a shorter hairstyle or a bob may be better suited to create volume and fullness.

    How to style brown hair?

    When it comes to styling brown hair, there are many options to choose from. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the look you want:

    - Use a heat protection spray before using hot styling tools such as straighteners or curling irons. This will protect your hair from damage and prevent it from becoming dry and worn.

    - If you want to add texture and volume to your brown hair, try using dry shampoo  or hair powder  at the roots. This will absorb excess oil and give the hair a lift.

    - Use a good quality hairspray to keep your hairstyle in place all day. Choose a hairspray that isn't too heavy and doesn't leave your hair stiff or sticky.

    - If you want to add shine to your brown hair, try applying a small amount of hair oil to the ends. This will give your hair a healthy and shiny finish.

    - Remember to care for your brown hair regularly with a moisturizing hair mask or conditioner. This will help maintain the hair's natural shine and health. You might want to consider our Healthy Hair Kit , which has a lot of care and moisture for your brown hair.

    Whether you have brown hair or not, it's important to take good care of your hair and give it the care it deserves. By choosing the right hairstyle and using the right styling products, you can achieve a beautiful and well-groomed appearance. So go out and experiment with different styles and find the one that best suits you and your personal style.

    Frequently asked questions

    Which brown hair color will suit me best?

    The best brown hair color for you depends on your skin tone's undertone. If you have a warm undertone, brown shades with golden, honey, or caramel tones will enhance your natural glow. If you have a cool undertone, ash brown, dark chocolate brown, or cooler shades of brown will suit you best, as they provide a balanced and sophisticated effect. An easy way to find your undertone is to look at your veins: greenish veins indicate a warm undertone, while bluish veins suggest a cool undertone.

    How do you color black hair brown?

    To color black hair brown, you will likely need to lighten your hair first, especially if you want to achieve a lighter brown shade like light brown or chestnut brown. Lightening typically involves bleaching, which removes some of the dark pigment in the hair. It's important to seek help from a professional hairdresser for this process, as bleaching can be damaging to the hair if not done correctly. Once the hair is lightened, the desired brown color can be applied to achieve the right result. It's also important to care for the hair after coloring with moisturizing products to avoid damage.

    Why does my hair turn red when I dye it brown?

    If your hair takes on a reddish hue when you dye it brown, it's often because your hair has natural red undertones or remnants of previous color treatments. When you dye hair brown, especially if it has been lightened or bleached, the red undertones can become more prominent. To avoid this, you can choose a color with cooler tones, such as ash brown, or use a toner that neutralizes the red undertones. Hairdressers can also recommend color treatments that specifically counteract unwanted warm tones in the hair.

    Can I dye my hair brown without using bleach?

    Yes, you can dye your hair brown without using bleach, especially if you're starting with a light or medium brown color. However, if you have very dark or black hair, you won't be able to achieve a light brown shade without first lightening it with bleach.

    How do I maintain brown-colored hair to avoid it fading?

    Brown hair can fade over time, especially if exposed to sunlight or frequent heat styling. To maintain the intensity of the color, it's recommended to use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner, as well as hair products that protect against UV rays. You should also avoid washing your hair too often, as this can accelerate fading. Using a color-enhancing shampoo or toner can also help keep the color vibrant for longer.

    How long does brown-colored hair last?

    The longevity of colored hair depends on the type of coloring used. Permanent hair dye can last for several months but will gradually fade with washing and exposure to the elements. Semi-permanent color typically lasts 4-6 weeks, while toning shampoos and color conditioners can wash out after 1-2 weeks. Regular maintenance and the use of color-safe products can extend the lifespan of the color.

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