What Are Hair Color Levels, and How Do They Affect Your Dye Results?
Hair coloring can seem like an art, but once you understand hair color levels, achieving the shade you’ve always wanted becomes much simpler! Your color levels refer to the lightness or darkness of your hair, ranging from level 1 (darkest black) to level 10 (lightest blonde).
Understanding this can help you choose the right products and get the best results—whether you're going for a bold transformation or subtle highlights.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hair color levels, including how to find yours and which John Frieda® brand products will help you achieve your perfect look.
What Is the Hair Color Level Scale?
The levels are defined on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the darkest and 10 being the lightest. Stylists use this scale to ensure accurate color results.
Here’s a breakdown of the levels:
- Level 1: Black
- Level 2-3: Very dark brown
- Level 4: Dark brown
- Level 5: Medium brown
- Level 6: Light brown
- Level 7: Dark blonde
- Level 8: Medium blonde
- Level 9: Light blonde
- Level 10: Very light blonde
Your hair’s level plays a big role in how it reacts to color. Darker levels need more lift (often using bleach or high-strength developers) to achieve lighter shades, while lighter levels are more prone to brassiness and need gentle toning products to keep them looking vibrant.
Understanding where you fall on this scale helps you make smart color decisions.
Want personalized haircare? Check out the John Frieda® Hair Care Find Your Solution tool to discover the best products for your hair.
How Can You Determine Your Hair Color Level?
Finding it might sound tricky, but you can do it at home with a little know-how! Here’s how to figure out your level:
- Use Natural Light:
- Compare with a Hair Color Chart:
- Look at Your Roots:
Once you know your level, you can make better choices about which color products to use.
For example, if you have medium brown hair (level 5), John Frieda® Brilliant Brunette® products can help keep your color looking rich and vibrant while adding dimension and shine.
How Do Hair Color Levels Influence Dye Results?
Your hair color determines how easily your hair can be lightened or darkened and how color will appear on your hair. Let’s break it down:
- Darker Levels (1-4):
Darker hair is beautiful and rich but often needs more lift to achieve lighter shades. This means using stronger developers (like 20 or 30 volume) or even bleach to lighten the hair. If you want to go from dark to light, consider using John Frieda® Go Blonder® Controlled Lightening Spray to lift your color gradually and safely.
- Medium Levels (5-7):
If your hair is in the mid-range of the scale, you have a bit more flexibility! You can either go darker or lighter with relative ease. For maintaining color vibrancy at these levels, John Frieda® Clear Shine Gloss is an excellent choice to keep your shade rich and multi-dimensional between color treatments.
- Lighter Levels (8-10):
Lighter hair levels, like blonde, are prone to developing brassy tones, especially when exposed to sun, heat, or hard water. To keep brassiness at bay, our blonde hair products and bundles are your go-to products for keeping those lighter shades bright and beautiful.
Want to know more about how toning works for blonde hair? Read our complete guide on Purple Shampoo 101.
What’s the Best John Frieda Product for Each Hair Color Level?
No matter where your hair falls on the color level scale, the John Frieda® brand has products specifically designed to enhance and maintain your beautiful shade. Here’s a quick guide:
- Level 1-4 (Dark Hair):
For darker shades, you’ll want products that enhance depth and shine. Try our Midnight Brunette® Color Deepening Shampoo and Conditioner to nourish and amplify your rich color.
- Level 5-7 (Medium to Light Brown Hair):
For those in the medium to light brown range, Brilliant Brunette® Color Vibrancy Shampoo and Conditioner is perfect for keeping your color vibrant while adding dimension and shine to multi-tonal brown hair.
- Level 8-10 (Blonde Hair):
To keep blonde hair bright and brass-free, try the Violet Crush® Shampoo and Conditioner. To gently lighten and maintain your blonde brilliance over time, the Go Blonder® Lightening Shampoo, Conditioner, and Spray are your best bet.
Explore the full range of John Frieda® Brilliant Brunette® Collection or Sheer Blonde Collection for products tailored to your color level.
How Can You Maintain Your Hair at Its Current Level?
Maintaining your hair color can be easy when you follow a consistent routine. Here are some tips to help you keep your color fresh and vibrant:
- Use a Color-Protecting Shampoo:
Color Protecting Shampoo can help lock in your shade and prevent fading caused by washing or environmental factors.
- Condition Regularly:
Keep your hair healthy and hydrated with a rich conditioner, especially after coloring. The Repair System Conditioner is great for nourishing and protecting your hair from damage.
- Use Heat Protectants:
If you style your hair with heat, using a heat protectant spray is essential to protect your color from fading and your hair from heat damage.
For more tips on keeping your hair in top condition, check out our guide on How to Repair Damaged Hair.
FAQs About Hair Color Levels
Can I change my hair color level at home?
Yes! But if you’re planning a significant change, like going from level 3 to level 9, consider using gradual lightening products, like our Go Blonder® Controlled Lightening Spray, or consult a professional stylist for the best results. You can also maintain flawless color at home with John Frieda® Precision Foam Colour®, permanent hair dye for all color levels except for 1, 7, and 10.
How often should I touch up my hair based on its level?
It depends on your natural growth rate and color level, but generally, you’ll want to refresh your color every 6-8 weeks. Using products like John Frieda® Clear Shine Gloss between treatments can help extend the life of your color.
What’s the best way to avoid damage when lifting levels?
Lightening your hair gradually is the safest way to go. Using products like John Frieda® Go Blonder® Shampoo and Conditioner helps you achieve gradual lightening while keeping your hair healthy and damage-free.
By understanding your hair color level and choosing the right products, you can achieve gorgeous, vibrant hair no matter your shade. Check out our full range of products at John Frieda® Hair Care and discover how to keep your hair looking its absolute best!
For more about our products, visit our John Frieda® Product Philosophy page.
