How to Lighten Dark Brown Hair

If you have dark brown hair, you’ve likely dreamed of figuring out how to naturally lighten your hair. As a brunette, maybe you feel that your besties with blonde hair can rock a light hair beauty look while you can’t. But that’s actually not the case! With the right colorist or hair lightener, even the darkest brunette can learn how to lighten hair at home for a hair color that’s nothing short of flattering. Have we piqued your interest? Keep scrolling to find out how to lighten dark hair with the help of at-home hair color products, as well as options for doing so naturally, so you can have the mane of your dreams.

HOW TO LIGHTEN DARK BROWN HAIR

Excited to learn how to lighten dark brown hair? Here’s what you need to know about the hair color application process.

STEP #1: CHOOSE THE RIGHT HAIR COLOR

When going from dark brown hair to light brown hair, you’ll want to take your skin’s undertones into consideration. When you choose a hair color that complements your skin tone, it will look much better than haphazardly picking a hair color that you simply find appealing. Typically, if you have cool-toned skin, warmer hair colors will make your features pop, whereas warmer skin tones will look fabulous with cool shades. How do you know if you have cool or warm undertones? Flip your wrists and examine your veins—if they’re blue, you’re cool-toned; if they’re green, you’re warm-toned; if they’re somewhere in the middle, you’re neutral.

STEP #2: COLOR YOUR HAIR GRADUALLY

To go from brown to blonde hair, and to lighten brunette strands in general, you will need to have your color lifted with bleach. Since this can do quite a number on your hair, it’s important that your hair is never lifted more than two shades per session. That means you might not be able to dye it as light as you’d like in one application. To bleach your hair at home, try the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Bleach in All Over. You should wait at least 14 days between bleaching sessions. If you’re getting your hair colored at the salon, you should also take your time before booking your follow up appointment in order to give your hair a chance to rest between sessions.

STEP #3: CONSIDERING DIY DYEING

Never dyed your hair at home before? When you’re a hair color newbie, it’s easier to achieve a light brown color. Need some hue inspiration? Try the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference in Light Brown.

HOW TO NATURALLY LIGHTEN HAIR

If you prefer to use natural methods, a natural hair lightener may be more up your alley. Some popular options for lightening hair naturally include using lemon, honey, cinnamon, chamomile tea, and olive oil. While these at-home methods are popular, of course, the research on them is limited. Henna, a plant-based hair dye, is also an option for coloring your hair without traditional hair dyes or bleaches—and it’s one where we can provide a bit more info. Here’s Your Introduction to Henna Hair Dyes for everything you need to know.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF LIGHTENED BROWN HAIR

Once you have lightened your dark brown hair, you may want to consider switching up your hair care routine to help keep your hair looking and feeling its best. The following five tips are worth adding to your beauty arsenal!

TIP #1: USE A SYSTEM OF PRODUCTS THAT ARE SAFE FOR COLOR-TREATED HAIR

Look for a system with a shampoo, conditioner, and hair mask that are all safe for color-treated hair. Try the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair and Defend Conditioner, and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair Remedy Balm, which are formulated to give color-treated hair the TLC it needs.

TIP #2: CONCEAL YOUR GRAY ROOTS

Have dark brown or gray hair growing in at your roots? No problem! Temporarily hide grays with the L’Oréal Paris Magic Root Cover Up, which is available in a variety of shades. The lightweight spray dries quickly, doesn’t leave any residue, and lasts one shampoo. To use, hold the can four to six inches away from your head, then spray onto new growth and partly through the length of your hair to blend in the color.

TIP #3: CUT DOWN ON HOT TOOLS

As much as you love the hairstyles hot tools can create, repeated exposure to heat can wear your hair down. Instead of skipping out on gorgeous looks, try using a hair spray to style your hair sans heat every once in a while. Try the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle AIR DRY IT Wave Swept Spray to add shape and texture to hair without the use of any added heat. Talk about a get-up-and-go style!

TIP #4: GET A HAIR GLOSS

Want to make your lightened dark brown hair prettier than ever? Add a hair gloss to your routine. Whether you do it yourself or head to the salon to get the job done, you’re sure to fall in love with your look.

Next up: Now that you’re a pro when it comes to how to lighten dark brown hair, it’s time to master another hair color skill. Here’s How to Get Dark Brown Hair with Blonde Highlights.