Brunette Hair Colour

How do I choose a brunette shade?

Work from your current colour and your undertone. Cool brunettes — ash, mushroom, cool chocolate — suit those who look better in silver jewellery. Warm brunettes such as caramel, chestnut and golden brown suit warmer complexions. Neutral browns sit safely between the two. Shade numbers indicate depth, with lower numbers darker.

Will it cover grey?

Permanent colours are formulated for full grey coverage. Semi-permanent and demi-permanent shades blend grey rather than covering it completely, which gives a softer result but may look uneven if you have significant coverage needs. Check the pack — grey coverage is usually stated explicitly.

Can I go lighter with a brunette dye?

Not by much. Home colour generally lifts one to two levels at most, and applying a lighter brown over darker hair usually deposits rather than lifts. Going meaningfully lighter from dark hair is a lightening process, not a colouring one.

Do I need to patch test?

Yes, 48 hours before every application, including if you have used the product before. Sensitivity can develop over time rather than appearing on first use. Follow the timing in the pack exactly — leaving colour on longer does not deepen the result.

How do I maintain it?

Wash less frequently and with cooler water. Browse the full hair colour range, or hair care for colour-safe shampoos, conditioners and masks.