Caramel highlights are warm, golden-brown highlights, the color of melted caramel, usually added to brown or black hair. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Caramel highlights at a glance
- Type: Brown / golden
- Tone: Warm
- Lightening needed: Usually a gentle lightening, since caramel is only two to three shades lighter than dark brown.
- Maintenance: Low to medium
- Touch-ups: 8 to 12 weeks
What makes it different
They brighten dark hair without the contrast of blonde, so they look natural and grow out softly.
Who it suits
Brown and black hair, and warm, olive and neutral skin tones. They're one of the most flattering first highlights for dark hair.
Not sure whether you're warm or cool? See how to find your undertone and the best hair color for your skin tone, or get your full palette with the free color analysis.
What to ask your colorist
- Ask for caramel or golden-brown highlights, two to three shades lighter than your base.
- Choose foils for definition or balayage for a softer look.
- Ask for a warm gloss to finish.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
Use sulfate-free shampoo and a blue shampoo occasionally if the caramel turns orange.
Shades and variations
- Caramel balayage: hand-painted caramel ribbons.
- Caramel highlights on black hair: higher contrast.
- Honey highlights: slightly lighter and more golden.
- Caramel brown hair: an all-over warm brown.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see caramel highlights on your own hair before you book.
Related hair colors
- Highlights
- Balayage
- Brown hair with blonde highlights
- Golden brown hair
- Honey blonde hair
- All hair color ideas
FAQ
What are caramel highlights?
Caramel highlights are warm, golden-brown highlights, the color of melted caramel, usually added to brown or black hair.
Who suits caramel highlights?
Brown and black hair, and warm, olive and neutral skin tones. They're one of the most flattering first highlights for dark hair.
Do you need bleach for caramel highlights?
Usually a gentle lightening, since caramel is only two to three shades lighter than dark brown.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 8 to 12 weeks.
