Light brown is a soft brown one step darker than dark blonde, around level 5 to 6. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Light brown hair at a glance
- Type: Brown
- Tone: Warm, cool or neutral
- Lightening needed: Only if your hair is dark brown or black.
- Maintenance: Low
- Touch-ups: 8 to 12 weeks
What makes it different
It's a natural, flattering shade that takes highlights well and needs little upkeep.
Who it suits
Most skin tones. Choose golden light brown for warm skin and ash light brown for cool skin.
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
- Say light brown and give the tone: golden, neutral or ash.
- Ask whether you need lightening to get there.
- Consider a few highlights for dimension.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
Use color-safe shampoo. If it turns orange, use a blue shampoo.
Shades and variations
- Light golden brown: warm and sunny.
- Light ash brown: cool and muted.
- Light brown with highlights: blonde or caramel pieces.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see light brown hair on your own hair before you book.
Related hair colors
- Golden brown hair
- Ash brown hair
- Bronde hair
- Chestnut brown hair
- Dirty blonde hair
- All hair color ideas
FAQ
What is light brown hair?
Light brown is a soft brown one step darker than dark blonde, around level 5 to 6.
Who suits light brown hair?
Most skin tones. Choose golden light brown for warm skin and ash light brown for cool skin.
Do you need bleach for light brown hair?
Only if your hair is dark brown or black.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 8 to 12 weeks.
