Understanding The Different Levels Of Hair Color (2024)

Published November 7th, 2023

Do you get frustrated when your hair color turns out wrong or doesn’t meet your expectations? There’s a fundamental secret to achieving a stunning hair transformation – understanding the various levels of hair color. Mastering this knowledge will help you create hair colors that stand out.

In this article, we’ll look at hair levels, why they matter, and how they affect your color shift. Say goodbye to unexpected disappointments. It’s time to empower yourself with the know-how to become a master of the art of hair color.

Hair Color Levels Explained

In hair coloring, the levels of hair color serve as the fundamental cornerstone. The hair color levels define the lightness and darkness of your hair. If this is your first time to know about this, it’s the numerical representation that functions as the building blocks of color. It provides valuable insights into the depth of your hair’s hue.

Numbering System For Hair Levels

The hair levels range from Level 1 (Black) to Level 10 (Lightest Blonde). Every level corresponds to a specific shade, creating a systematic scale for selecting the perfect color. Level 1 is the deepest, most intense black, while Level 10 embodies the lightest, most radiant shade among the levels of blonde hair.

Hair levels and shades:

  • Level 1 (Black): The darkest shade, often called “blue-black.”
  • Level 2 (Darkest Brown): A deep brownish hue, almost black, with minimal warmth.
  • Level 3 (Dark Brown): A rich, classic brown color.
  • Level 4 (Medium Brown): A warm mid-range brown present in natural hair.
  • Level 5 (Light Brown): A versatile, light brownish shade with subtle warmth.
  • Level 6 (Dark Blonde): A soft transition from brown to blonde, presenting a gentle golden sheen.
  • Level 7 (Medium Blonde): A balanced medium blonde that complements various skin tones.
  • Level 8 (Blonde): A cool-toned light blonde shade with minimal warmth.
  • Level 9 (Light Blonde): A very light shade of blonde with hints of ash or platinum undertones.
  • Level 10 (Lightest Blonde): The lightest, most radiant blonde hue, akin to platinum.

Knowing your current level of hair color plays an essential role in determining your options. It serves as the foundation for the success of your hair transformation. To achieve your desired results, it’s important to know your hair’s level. Whether you want a small or big change, this knowledge is crucial.

Determining Your Hair Level

If you plan on giving your hair a facelift, you might not think about this question – what color is my hair? However, it’s crucial to determine your hair level first before deciding to upgrade to a different shade. Start by selecting a section of hair, ideally from the crown of your head. Compare this to a hair color level chart. The chart displays an array of hair levels, from the darkest to the lightest. Assess your chosen section of hair carefully to get the best results.

Natural light will come in handy in identifying your hair level. To see your hair color, look at it under natural light instead of artificial light. Doing so lets you choose the ideal shade for your hair color change.

Choosing The Right Hair Color Shade

Understanding the connection between your hair level and the desired color should be a priority. Your current hair level will be your reference point when selecting a new hair color.

If it’s your first time to give yourself a hair transformation, try to avoid drastic changes. A common mistake is deviating too far from your current hair level, whether lightening or darkening.

Going For A Lighter Color

If you aim to lighten your hair, especially from a darker hair level, it’s best to go on a gradual approach. Leveling up several shades lighter in a single go can be challenging and can risk damaging your hair.

Try techniques such as balayage, highlights, or ombre to create a more predictable and healthier outcome. A gradual hair transformation also allows your hair to adapt to changes with minimal damage.

Going For A Darker Shade

Similarly, choosing to darken your hair will also need a gradual approach. Abrupt and intense changes to the color can damage your hair, potentially resulting in unevenness and damage. For instance, if you gradually switch from warm to cool tones, it’ll be smoother and less damaging.

Understanding Hair Tones

The hair tone refers to the underlying pigments present in your hair. Remember that the hair tone can significantly impact the final color of your hair transformation.

Common underlying pigments in hair include:

  • Red
  • Orange
  • Yellow
  • Pale yellow

These tones determine the warmth or coolness of your hair color. For example, a person with red undertones exudes a warmer look, while hair with pale yellow undertones leans towards cooler hues.

What Are Toners?

To modify or neutralize the underlying tones, a toner enters the picture. It plays a vital role during hair coloring, especially if you want to lighten your hair.

Toners are products that help you achieve the exact shade you want by counteracting any unwanted warmth or coolness. For example, a purple toner is the right choice to counteract yellow undertones in blonde hair, creating an ashier hue.

Skin Tone And Hair Color Selection

Choosing the ideal hair color requires knowing your skin tone. You can determine your skin’s undertone by considering factors such as the color of your veins and how your skin responds to sunlight exposure.

  • Vein test: Examine the veins on your wrist. Bluish veins mean you have a cool undertone. If you have a greenish tint, your undertone is warm. Those who have a combination of both may have a neutral undertone.
  • Sun exposure: People with cool undertones easily burn and turn red when exposed to the sun. On the other hand, those with warm undertones tend to tan.

Matching Hair Color To Your Skin Tone

Your skin tone, whether warm, cool, or neutral, is crucial in how your desired hair color enhances your appearance. To achieve a balanced look with your hair transformation, it’s important to understand this connection.

  • Warm skin tones work well with hair colors within the warm spectrum, including shades of copper, red, and golden blonde.
  • Cool skin tones harmonize with hair shades such as platinum, ash blonde, and cool brown.
  • Individuals with neutral undertones have better flexibility in choosing hair colors. They can try many colors to get the right look, like mixing different shades of brown hair.

Utilizing Hair Color Charts

A hair color chart is an essential tool that various hair color brands offer. The charts categorize hair colors based on levels and tones, simplifying the process of choosing your ideal shade.

Major brands organize the color charts based on underlying tones and the desired color outcome. By using this method, it helps people choose the precise color they want.

Always consult a brand’s color chart before investing in one. The charts offer much-needed guidance in choosing a shade that works well with your hair level and desired outcome. Get the most out of the information on the expected final color, undertones, and recommendations for the perfect effect. The chart ensures you make an informed choice and avoid unexpected results.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Perfect Hue

It’s important to understand different levels of hair color, tones, and how they’re affected by your skin tone. Hair color charts can provide helpful guidance. Now that you know about hair color levels, you can choose the right one for your style and complexion. Whether you want a small change or a big one, feel confident and find your perfect hair color today.

Understanding The Different Levels Of Hair Color (2024)
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