Is it just us, or is everything suddenly turning brown across fashion and beauty? Turning tonal for the colder months, the trend continues into spring with chocolate brown hair.
While blonde and bronde hair colours look gorgeous in the summer, there’s something about the rich, inviting shade of chocolate brown that feels appropriate for this time of year. So, if you’re looking for inspiration this season, first, check out our spring hair trends – and then scroll on to find out how to achieve and maintain chocolate brown hair yourself, according to a hairstylist.
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What colour is chocolate brown hair?
While you might be more familiar with chocolate brown hair in the colder months, there’s something opulent and unexpected about bringing the shade into spring. Also known as ‘espresso brown’, think rich, dark brunette shades with a glossy finish.
Among the many different shades of brunette hair, chocolate brown hair has a distinct richness despite its darker hue, whether you’ve gone for a one-dimensional shade or highlighted to give more depth. Imagine thick, glossy brown like melted chocolate. “Chocolate brown hair is a perfect hair shade as it mirrors the warm, rich tones of the season and adds instant shine and depth,” Nicole Petty, brand director at Milk & Blush tells Glamour. “It’s also low-maintenance for those with naturally dark hair, and the warm shade transitions beautifully.”
What skin tone is best for chocolate brown hair?
The great news is that chocolate brown hair is a very versatile shade that can work for all skin tones, but the specific shade you go for will help flatter different undertones. “The key is finding the right balance of warmth and depth to enhance your natural colouring,” says Nicole. “Golden or warm chocolate hues flatter olive and warm complexions, while cooler mocha-inspired tones look striking on fair or cool skin.”
Similarly, when it comes to hair types, chocolate brown hair can work for everyone, from straight or wavy to curly hair. “For those with medium to dark brown hair, achieving this colour is simple and requires minimal adjustment,” Nicole adds. “If your hair is blonde, light brown, or has been previously lightened, your colourist may need to rebalance your base tone for a more even, vibrant result.”
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How can I achieve chocolate brown hair?
As with any hair colour change, creating a healthy, nourished foundation will help to achieve the best results. “Ahead of your appointment, trim away split ends and treat your hair to hydrating masks to strengthen it,” says Nicole. “Try to avoid harsh treatments such as bleach or relaxers for at least 2-4 weeks before colouring, as this helps your hair absorb pigment more evenly. With good prep, your chocolate brown will look richer, healthier, and last longer.”
When it comes to the tone and finish you’re looking for, be sure to clearly communicate what you want to achieve with your stylist and bring reference images if you’re not sure how to word it. “Ask your colourist for a balance of warm and cool tones to achieve natural depth, and specify if you’d prefer golden warmth or a cooler, mocha-inspired result,” advises Nicole. “If your hair is already lightened or coloured, check whether a base lift or toner is needed for the richness you want.”
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How can I maintain chocolate brown hair?
Once you’ve achieved the glossy chocolate brown hair of your dreams, maintaining it for as long as possible is the goal and it transitions beautifully across the seasons if properly cared for. Before you leave the salon, Nicole advises asking your colourist for tailored aftercare advice to maintain shine and prevent fading, but has some rules of thumb that are useful to remember.
“Sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner are key for maintaining hair colour vibrancy, as they do not strip natural oils from the hair, and therefore, retain its natural moisture,” she says, recommending Moroccanoil Hydration Shampoo & Conditioner Duo. Meanwhile, colour-depositing conditioners like Maria Nila Colour Refresh help to refresh the richness of chocolate brown hair when you notice dullness and want to recapture the high-shine finish.
Most importantly, heat and UV can accelerate the fading of hair dye. “High-temperature styling tools, such as straighteners and curling wands, weaken the hair cuticle, which allows hair dye molecules to escape more easily, causing colour to fade. Sunlight also fades dyed hair as UV rays can break down the chemical bonds in the hair dye,” Nicole explains. Adding heat and UV protectant products like Hershesons Air Dry Spray with UV Protection or Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray to your routine, can help maintain your hair’s vibrancy all throughout spring as we (hopefully) get more sunshine.
How should I style chocolate brown hair?
How to style your chocolate brown hair comes down to personal preference, but specific hairstyles can help to emphasise the rich dimension of your new colour. “Soft curls or waves are the perfect way to show off the multi-tonal richness of chocolate brown for the season,” says Nicole. Prevent heat damage and colour fading by using rollers to achieve the look, creating rippling curls without losing the richness of the chocolate brown hair colour.
For that mesmerising glossy finish, Nicole suggests a good hair oil or serum – “It keeps strands nourished and healthy while boosting the colour’s natural depth and shine,” she says. “It helps tame frizz, smooth the cuticle, and leaves a glossy, polished finish that makes the shade look even more vibrant and multidimensional.” We love Sebastian Professional Dark Oil Lightweight Styling Oil for Smooth Hair for lightweight nourishment and a sleek finish.
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