Ash brown hair color has become a popular choice for many women looking to add subtle dimension to their natural hair color without going too light. However, some worry that ash brown shades can make you look washed out or emphasize fine lines and wrinkles. Here’s a detailed look at how ash browns can affect your appearance at different ages.
In Your 20s
During your 20s, ash brown hair color can give your hair a cool, modern look without aging you. The light ash tones create contrast against your skin and make your eye color pop. This works well for those with neutral to pink undertones. Olive or yellow undertones may clash with the grayish tones in ash browns, so stay on the warmer side of ash if you have a warmer complexion. The depth of color from your natural pigment keeps ash browns from washing you out at this age. Stay close to your natural shade for the most flattering look.
In Your 30s
As you enter your 30s, hair color begins to have a more noticeable effect on your complexion. Warmer tones in brunette shades tend to create a youthful glow while cooler ash tones can emphasize fine lines. The trick is finding the right balance of warm and cool tones. As you get older, aim for ash browns with subtle warm undertones to avoid looking washed out. You can also incorporate warm highlights around your face. This keeps the modern ash tone while creating dimension that flatters your skin.
In Your 40s
Once you reach your 40s, overly cool ash browns can start to make you look older. Stick to warmer ash browns with a subtle golden touch. While highlights help, also consider adding in lowlights to reduce contrast between your hair and skin tone. The sharp contrast of highlights combined with cool ash tones emphasizes imperfections. Softening with lowlights and subtle warm tones keeps your color modern while remaining flattering on mature skin.
In Your 50s
Cool ash brown hair colors tend to age women over 50. The contrast creates shadows that emphasize lines, wrinkles, and thinning hair. Instead, go for neutral browns with a hint of warmth. Beige browns create softness and dimension while minimizing aging contrast. You can also incorporate warm caramel highlights around your face. Opt for low-maintenance balayage or babylights to create natural-looking lightness that flatters mature complexions.
In Your 60s
Once you reach your 60s, avoid cool ash tones, which tend to wash out complexions. Warm golden browns are the most flattering. Not only do they minimize aging contrast, but they also give dulling mature hair a healthy glow. Look for shades like mocha, chestnut, or honey brown. You can incorporate subtle sunshine-inspired highlights as well. Also focus on hydration and conditioning to keep color looking vibrant on thinning graying hair.
In Your 70s
After 70, the most flattering brunette shades have warm golden undertones. Ash browns will emphasize thinning hair and wrinkles at this life stage. Aim for soft beige browns or light chocolate shades to give your hair color without aging effects. Keep highlights close to your natural color and focus them around your face for a lift. Condition frequently to ensure your color stays rich and hydrated on graying strands.
How Hair Color Changes Your Appearance at Different Ages
| Age Range | Most Flattering Shades | Shades to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| 20s | Cool ash browns close to natural shade | Overly light or ashy tones |
| 30s | Neutral ash browns with warm undertones | Cool ash tones |
| 40s | Warm ash browns with golden tones | Cool ash browns |
| 50s | Neutral beige browns | Cool ash browns |
| 60s | Golden brown shades | Ash browns |
| 70s | Warm beige and golden browns | Ash browns |
Conclusion
While ash brown hair color can look modern and stylish, it does tend to emphasize signs of aging as you get older. Stick to the cooler ash tones in your 20s and 30s when your skin is more resilient. As you enter your 40s and beyond, shift to warmer, more neutral ash browns. By your 60s, avoid cool ash tones altogether. The right brown shades can enhance your hair color at any age while remaining flattering as you mature.