Caramel is a rich and luxurious hair color that combines both dark blonde and light brown shades to give dimension and depth to any look.
Ranging from deep caramel tones to golden brown and dark blonde hues, caramel variations work perfectly as a base for other classic styles and shades such as balayage and ombré. The warmth and richness of caramel hair allow it to blend in seamlessly with other root and hair shades.
For many hair colors, achieving caramel hair is quite simple. You could consider whether to color all your hair or just get highlights or lowlights. However, depending on your natural hair color, you might have to visit the salon to successfully obtain your desired color.
Oftentimes, all-over caramel hair suits short to medium hair lengths best, but anyone can have it. Those with naturally dark long hair can add caramel color highlights to give their hair dimension. Moreover, lighter hair colors can go for caramel lowlights just beneath the surface layer of the hair.
Achieving the Perfect Caramel Hair Color
To achieve your perfect caramel hair color, several tools and products are necessary. Here are a few important tools to work with:
- Gloves: To protect your hands from harsh hair dye chemicals.
- Bowls and spatula: For mixing the dyes and for easy application.
Method:
If you want to dye your hair at home, it is imperative to select a high-quality hair dye. It is important to note that caramel can be labeled and named in different ways. Some manufacturers may refer to caramel as light gold brown, toffee, dark blonde, or butterscotch. It is wise to choose your caramel color depending on the sample shade given on the dye packaging rather than the shade’s name. Most importantly, ensure that the dye you choose is of good quality to get the best results. It’s a good idea to read different hair dye reviews to help you make your choice.
Apply the dye to your hair according to the specific instructions in your hair dye package. By following these instructions properly, you can avoid any mistakes or damage to your hair. Be careful to stick to the exact amount of time the package says to leave the dye on for and rinse off the color after.
Usually, hair dyes tend to go slightly darker than indicated on the box. So, it’s advisable to opt for a shade that’s a bit lighter than the color you want. Also, performing a strand test is necessary to determine the processing time for your hair. This will also help you to know how long to leave the color in, as well as helping you to avoid your hair turning brassy or too dark.
For people with very dark brown or black hair, a salon visit is recommended to get your dream caramel hair. This is because caramel is a lighter color and would require you to lift some of your natural hair colors off before the caramel will take to your hair. Since this process requires the use of bleach, it is better to get it done by a professional colorist. Also, if you’ve previously dyed your hair, a visit to the salon is advised.
Caring for Your Caramel Colored Hair
Once you have achieved your dream caramel color, it’s time to improve your hair care routine to protect your colored strands. Taking care of your hair will not only make your color stay bright for longer, but it will also help to maintain the texture of your hair and ensure it stays beautiful. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your caramel hair looks its best!
Use products intended for color-treated hair
This is a great tip to get the most out of your colored hair. It is important to use hair products specifically designed for color-treated hair. With regular hair wash ingredients, your color and vibrance can be stripped off your hair. Hair products such as shampoo and conditioner should be color-friendly.
Regularly use Hair Masks
Colored hair requires more care and nourishment, and hair masks help to provide and lock in moisture in your hair. Hair masks also make your hair shiny and keep your color vivid for longer. So, once or twice a week, put on a hair mask for ten minutes or more to rehydrate your hair.
Avoid Heat Damage
Excessive heat can cause a lot of damage to your newly caramel-colored hair. Excessively using flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can cause your hair to lose its natural texture. Try and let your hair air dry after washing to limit heat. Additionally, washing your hair in very hot water can not only cause your hair to dry out; but it can also dull your caramel hair color, making it fade and less bouncy.
Conceal Gray Roots Immediately
The moment you notice any new greys emerging, touch-up them up as soon as possible to keep your hair looking fresh. There are a variety of products that can be used to hide gray roots, from color sprays to shampoos and hair lotions. Find a good root-concealing product in your caramel shade, apply to your roots, blend it in, and you’re good to go.
Whether you decide to color your hair at home or at the salon, it’s recommended to understand your current hair and take all the necessary precautions to avoid damaging your hair. From your choice of hair dye to the color-treated products you use afterward, go for products that will help to protect your hair from damage.
Appropriate care should be taken with your caramel-colored hair to ensure that it looks its best. Make sure to look after your newly colored hair once you’ve dyed it. Finally, in the case of any errors made while dying your hair, consult a hair professional immediately to help rectify any damage.