How to Get Dark Brown Hair with Blonde Highlights

Dark brown hair with blonde highlights is a hair color trend that has been turning heads left and right for decades, and for good reason. The sun-kissed brunette beauties who walk down runways and everyday streets have a certain je ne sais quoi about them that draws in all the attention without looking overdone. Have we convinced you to spruce up your own dark brown hair with highlights? There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind before you actually try this hair color trend yourself. Below, we share everything you need to know about getting brown hair with blonde highlights. Follow along!

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING DARK BROWN HAIR WITH BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS

If you’ve ever colored your hair before, you know that it can take a bit of patience and precision—especially when it comes to adding in highlights. Keep in mind that if you’re starting with naturally dark hair, it can be difficult to achieve the level of blonde you may be interested in, and bleach will be required to lighten your color. It may be a good idea to visit a pro who can expertly take you through the process and manage your expectations. What’s more, some highlighting techniques, such as balayage, require quite a bit of skill and precision, so you’ll want to leave that to the experts anyway. That being said, it is possible to get dark brown hair with blonde highlights at home—and we’re outlining exactly how below!

HOW TO GET DARK BROWN HAIR WITH BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS

If you want to add blonde highlights to your dark brown hair, you can DIY your highlights at home with the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Bleach in Highlights. The kit comes with a developer crème, bleaching powder, lightening crème, conditioning shampoo, and DIY highlight brush. Follow the enclosed instructions for the best results, then show off your gorgeous new hair color!

5 OPTIONS FOR BROWN HAIR WITH BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS

Of course, there’s more than one option when it comes to dark brown hair with blonde highlights. Whether you plan to DIY your lightened hair or head to the salon, consider the below for inspo.

Option #1: Dark brown hair with caramel highlights. Dark brown and caramel go together like, well, dark chocolate filled with caramel. Yum! This combination of warm, rich colors will create envy-worthy dimension.

Option #2: Dark brown hair with ash blonde highlights. If you have cool, dark brown hair, consider getting ash blonde highlights. The cool undertones will pair beautifully with your natural hair color.

Option #3: Dark brown hair with platinum highlights. Who says blonde highlights for dark brown hair have to be subtle? On the contrary, this high contrast duo is seriously stunning when done with the balayage highlighting technique.

Option #4: Dark brown hair with creamy blonde highlights. If platinum is a bit too bold for you, but you still love the idea of contrasting strands, creamy blonde highlights may be just what you’re looking for. This beige blonde color will provide definition without being too harsh.

Option #5: Dark brown hair with strawberry blonde highlights. It’s no secret that brown hair pairs beautifully with red highlights. If blonde highlights are still your goal, get the best of both worlds with strawberry blonde highlights!

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF DARK BROWN HAIR WITH BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS

Officially sun-kissed? Yes! You’re positively in love with your new ‘do, right? Well, then you better care for it correctly! Once you’ve colored your hair, it’s a good idea to make a few changes to your regular hair care routine to help care for your strands.

1. Use a system of shampoo and conditioner formulated for color-treated hair. Switch out your old shampoo and conditioner for a system that’s formulated for color-treated hair, like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Conditioner.

2. Add in a hair mask a couple times a week. Once or twice a week, swap out the above conditioner for the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair Remedy Balm. Apply the hair mask to wet hair, leave it on for three to five minutes, then rinse out thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.

3. Always use a heat protectant. Excessive heat styling can lead to damage—which is why it’s always important to use a heat protectant before busting out your blow-dryer, curling iron, or flat iron. Try the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Iron Straight Heatspray.

4. Let your hair air-dry from time to time. You don’t have to use heat tools to get a gorgeous-looking hairstyle! Give your mane a break from the blow-dryer every once in a while by air drying your hair. For beachy waves, spritz the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle AIR DRY IT Wave Swept Spray onto towel-dried hair, create a braid, then undo the braid once your hair has dried.

5. Schedule a glaze. One of the best ways to make your dark brown hair with blonde highlights look shinier is to get a glaze every few weeks at the salon. To find out if your specific golden highlights can benefit from a glaze, consult your favorite stylist and cross your fingers!

Next up: Brush up on The Best Highlights and Lowlights for 2019.