When looking to dye your hair brown, it’s common to want a shade that will brighten or lighten your existing hair color. Many brown hair dyes can help achieve this effect, whether you’re looking to go just a bit lighter or make a more dramatic change. The key is finding the right brown tone and formula to lift your hair without causing damage.
How Hair Dye Lightens Hair
Hair dye works by depositing color pigments into the hair shaft. For brown dyes, these pigments are different shades of brown. To lighten hair, brown dyes use pigments on the warmer end of the spectrum, like reddish browns and golden browns. When these warmer pigments are deposited on hair, they interact with the existing shade to reflect more light, adding brightness and giving the illusion of lighter hair.
Developers, or oxidizing agents, play a crucial role as well. These are mixed with the dye to open up the cuticles and allow the pigments to penetrate the hair shaft. A higher volume developer (e.g. 30 or 40 volume) will lift more existing color and allow more lightening from the brown dye. However, this can increase the risk of damage, so it’s best to stay within 2 shades of your natural level.
Best Brown Dyes for Lightening Hair
Here are some top brown hair dye options for achieving a lighter shade:
1. L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color
– Available in light brown shades with golden tones to give brightness.
– Uses oleo-tech technology to condition and shine.
– Fade-defying formula lasts up to 8 weeks.
2. Clairol Natural Instincts Semi-Permanent Hair Color
– Semi-permanent formula gently lightens without harsh chemicals.
– Contains aloe, vitamin E & antioxidant complex to condition.
– Wide range of lighter brown shades from golden blonde to medium cool brown.
3. Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color Permanent Hair Dye
– Ammonia-free, less damaging on hair.
– Lighter browns like dark golden blonde add vibrancy.
– Keratin-enriched to strengthen and improve elasticity.
4. Madison Reed Light Works Balayage Kit
– Lightweight gel formula subtly lightens and adds dimension.
– 9 natural-looking brown shades from caramel to chocolate.
– No ammonia or parabens; made with argan oil.
5. John Frieda Precision Foam Colour Permanent Hair Dye
– Foam formula provides gentle, conditioning lightening.
– Warm brown options like sunrise blonde and bombshell blonde.
– Lasts up to 8 weeks with fade-defying technology.
How to Choose the Right Brown Dye
When selecting a brown hair dye to brighten your hair, here are some tips:
– Know your starting level – are you light, medium or dark brown?
– Choose 2 shades lighter at most to avoid damage.
– Pick shades with golden, reddish or copper tones.
– Avoid ash or cool-toned browns, which can darken.
– Read reviews to gauge how much lightening others experienced.
– Do an allergy patch test before coloring.
– Use a clarifying shampoo 1-2 weeks before coloring for best results.
– Apply a conditioning hair mask after coloring to nourish hair.
Using a Brown Dye Gloss Treatment
For subtle lightening, consider a demi-permanent brown gloss treatment:
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
| – Less commitment than permanent dye | – Doesn’t lighten as dramatically |
| – Gentler on hair, less damage | – Color fades more quickly |
| – Shines and conditions while lightening | – Roots reappear sooner |
| – Easy to do at home | – May require more frequent touch-ups |
Popular brown gloss options:
– Clairol Natural Instincts in Cocoa Mocha or Mocha Mix
– John Frieda Sheer Brunette Tone Enhancing Gloss
– Wella Color Charm Demi-Permanent Hair Color
Trying Highlights or Balayage
For more dimension, consider brown highlights or balayage:
Brown Highlights
– Hand-painted or foiled strips of lightener & toner
– Warm brown babylights blended throughout for natural effect
– Brighten and warm up overall hair color
– Lowlights can be added for extra depth
Brown Balayage
– Airy, hand-painted highlights without foils
– Seamlessly blended for a sun-kissed look
– Focused on mid-lengths and ends for a graduated effect
– Lightener followed by a glossy brown toner
– Add face-framing highlights around hairline for extra lightening
Caring for Hair After Lightening
It’s important to nourish hair after any lightening or coloring service. Be sure to:
– Use a sulfate-free shampoo and gentle conditioner
– Shampoo less frequently, only 1-2 times per week
– Use a weekly hydrating hair mask or deep conditioner
– Apply a heat protectant before heat styling
– Get regular trims to keep ends healthy
– Use bonding products to reinforce hair bonds
– Avoid chlorine, salt water, and other damaging elements
Visiting a Professional
For best results with dramatic lightening or for complicated color corrections, seek help from a licensed stylist. A pro can:
– Pick the perfect hue to complement your skin tone
– Expertly combine highlight and lowlight placement
– Utilize techniques like balayage and babylights
– Carefully formulate dye with the right developer
– Take precautions to minimize damage
– Recommend professional treatments like Olaplex
Conclusion
Lightening your hair a few shades with an at-home brown hair dye is certainly achievable. Stick close to your natural level, opt for warm golden or reddish brown tones, and take care to nurture your hair afterwards. For more significant lightening or to correct unwanted brassiness, consulting a professional stylist may yield the best results. With the right formula and proper technique, you can reveal gorgeous, brightened locks. Just take it slowly and let your colorist know if your hair starts to feel compromised. For low-commitment lightening, brown semi-permanent glosses offer a simpler solution. With a few expert tips, you can discover the perfect soft, sun-kissed brown hue for your hair goals.