If you have light ash brown hair and are looking to go lighter, there are a few options for hair colors that are lighter than your current shade. Going lighter requires bleaching your hair to lift your natural pigment, so it’s important to do so gradually and with care to avoid damage. By understanding hair color tones and levels, you can choose your next color wisely.
What is light ash brown hair?
Light ash brown hair is a cool-toned light brown shade with some ashy, grayish undertones. It typically ranges from level 6 to level 7 on the hair color scale, where level 10 is the lightest blonde and level 1 is black. The “ash” in the name refers to the hints of gray, blue, and silver throughout the hair, which give it a cooler look than warm brunette shades.
This hair color is ideal for those with cool-toned fair or medium skin tones, as the ashiness works nicely with pink or red undertones in the complexion. It creates a smooth, blended look from roots to ends. Light ash brown is usually achieved by coloring over natural darker brown shades – very few people are born with naturally light ash brown hair.
Hair color levels and tones
When changing your hair color, it helps to understand the concepts of color levels and tones:
- Levels refer to how light or dark the color is on a scale of 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde). Light ash brown is around a level 6 or 7.
- Tones describe whether the color leans warm, cool, or neutral. Light ash brown is a cool tone due to the gray/ashy undertone.
Lighter hair colors than light ash brown will have a higher level number and likely a similar cool tone. However, some neutral and beige blonde shades can also work nicely. Going more than 2 levels lighter at once is not recommended though, as it requires aggressive bleaching and can damage hair.
Hair colors lighter than light ash brown
Here are some good options for hair colors that are lighter than light ash brown:
Beige blonde
Beige blonde ranges from level 8 to level 10, making it lighter than light ash brown. It’s a creamy, golden blonde shade that flatters light complexions. The beige tone is flattering on those with pink or neutral skin undertones. This can be a great option if you want to go slightly lighter while keeping a hint of warmth.
Icy blonde
Icy blonde is an ultra light platinum blonde, ranging from level 9-10. It has an icy, almost silver appearance with hints of gray. The tone is very cool and crisp, suiting those with fair cool-toned skin. This is the lightest cool-toned blonde option if you want high-impact, dramatic results.
Butter blonde
Butter blonde is a gorgeous neutral blonde shade. It ranges from level 8-10, making it at least one or two shades lighter than light ash brown. The buttery tone flatters a wide range of skin tones, from fair to medium golden complexions. It has a bright yet soft look that works well on many people.
Champagne blonde
Champagne blonde is a glistening mix of beige and platinum tones, typically ranging from level 9-10. It has lots of brightness while still retaining warmth, suiting those with medium neutral or golden skin tones. The hint of gold makes this a multi-dimensional blonde shade.
How to transition your hair to lighter shades
When transitioning your light ash brown hair to a lighter shade, keep these tips in mind:
- Get a consultation and have your color professionally done to avoid damage
- Transition gradually over multiple sessions
- Use a purple shampoo and conditioner to reduce brassiness
- Use bonding and repair treatments to strengthen hair
- Avoid overwashing and use heat protection
- Get regular trims to remove split ends
- Use hydrating hair masks and oils to keep hair soft and shiny
With patience and proper care, you can achieve gorgeous lighter blonde locks. But give your hair time to adjust in between color sessions.
Comparing lightness of blonde shades
This table provides a comparison of some blonde shades lighter than light ash brown, their color levels, and tone:
| Hair Color | Level | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Light Ash Brown (for reference) | 6-7 | Cool |
| Beige Blonde | 8-10 | Warm |
| Icy Blonde | 9-10 | Cool |
| Butter Blonde | 8-10 | Neutral |
| Champagne Blonde | 9-10 | Warm |
Caring for blonde hair
Once you’ve achieved your ideal light blonde shade, you’ll need to take extra care to keep hair healthy and vibrant:
- Use a purple shampoo 1-2 times per week to neutralize brassiness
- Opt for shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair
- Limit washing to 2-3 times per week
- Rinse with cool water and avoid very hot showers
- Apply a deep conditioner or hair mask 1-2 times per week
- Blot wet hair gently with a towel – avoid aggressive rubbing
- Let hair air dry when possible to minimize heat damage
- Keep hair protected from sun exposure with hats, scarves
With the proper maintenance regimen, your light blonde shade will stay shiny and vibrant for weeks!
Common questions
Does light ash brown have orange tones?
No, light ash brown hair does not have orange tones. The ash in the name refers to gray/silver tones that neutralize warmth and create a cool effect. If your light ash brown hair starts to look orange, it’s likely due to brassiness from sun exposure, minerals in water, or product buildup.
Is light ash brown considered blonde?
No, light ash brown is not considered a blonde shade. True blondes range from levels 8-10 on the hair color scale, while light ash brown is only a level 6 or 7. However, when styled or highlighted, light ash brown can take on a blonde appearance in certain lighting.
What is the lightest ash blonde level?
The lightest ash blonde level is typically a level 10. A level 10 ash blonde is an icy, platinum blonde shade with strong gray/blue undertones. However, sometimes an ash blonde at level 9 can also appear quite light if styled a certain way. Any ash blonde above a level 8 will be significantly lighter than light ash brown hair.
Conclusion
If your heart is set on going lighter than your current light ash brown locks, be patient and take it slowly. A consultation with a colorist can help determine your next best shade. Options like beige blonde, icy blonde, butter blonde, and champagne blonde are all good choices in the right circumstances. With proper techniques and aftercare, you can gradually achieve the blonde tone of your dreams!
