Hair fashion does not stand still, and new trends appear, catching all the fashionistas by surprise because of their unusualness and aesthetic appeal. Ash brown hair is an elegant line between natural and edgy. The richness of the tint, along with its variations, complements most complexions and individual styles ranging from business to contemporary.

Today, we’ll have an in-depth look into the origins of the shade, how to incorporate it into your look, and ways to sport it with taste. Buckle up. We’ve got fashion grounds to cover!

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What Is Ash Brown Hair?

Ash brown hair is an aspiring trend that has many women around the world head over heels for it. It is a cool, sophisticated tone that borders between natural brown hair and ash gray. The shade has a smokey tint to it, which makes it border between something real and something ethereal.

What Is Ash Brown Hair?
by @hairbysalah

Unlike many other shades, ash brown is incredibly adaptable and can be suited to any skin tone. However, it will look its best when paired with cool or neutral undertones. Another undeniable advantage of the hue is that it can be easily incorporated into light-shaded or dark-shaded mane with the least damage to your hair. If you love the platinum hair flair but are not really fond of the maintenance it requires, an ash brown is what you should consider giving a try!

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Why Choose Ash Brown?

Why Choose Ash Brown?

The mere aesthetic appeal of the hue isn’t where all the benefits end. There are more perks to the shade:

  • It is universal and complements different skin tones.

  • It features a soft effect that will enhance your facial features without an overwhelming degree.

  • It is low maintenance. Think of it as partial highlights that are easy to grow out without a need for frequent touch-ups.

  • If you have naturally grey hair, the hue offers seamless blending, evening out the contrast between natural grays and your natural hair color.

  • It is fashionable and sassy.

Best Ash Brown Shades for Different Skin Tones

As we’ve already mentioned, ash brown hair color is exceptionally flattering for all complexions.

Light Ash Brown
by @hairbysalah

Light Ash Brown: Best for fair skin. Light brown hair with ashen undertones will bring warmth to your fair complexion without overpowering it.

Classic Ash Brown
by @hairbysalah

Classic Ash Brown: Versatile and works for medium skin tones. Being the most neutral of all, this hair color is perfect for medium-tone complexions. It brings the necessary dimension and contrast into the look but keeps it balanced and chic.

Dark Ash Brown
by @hairbysalah

Dark Ash Brown: Striking on deep skin tones. This is the boldest tint of all. It lights up the darker skin tones, making them radiate with beauty. Besides, it looks vibrant yet not too light or brassy, cheapening the overall appearance.

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Ash brown comes in many breathtaking shapes and forms. Ranging from chocolate brown hair to highlights and color-rich variations, there’s a suitable option for everyone. We’ve gathered a few inspiring examples of fantastic ash-brown hair to prove the point and give food to your mind!

Ash Brunette On Brunette Balayage

Ash Brunette On Brunette Balayage
by @camouflageandbalayage

This look from Amy McManus features a flawless implementation of ash tones into the brunette base. Here’s what the artist has to say about this type of balayage:

“Full teasy Balayage highlights using Wella Freelights and a dash of BlondorPlex with 20 volume:
  • Processed 1 hour room temp
  • Lifted to a level 8.5/9
  • Glossed with Schwarzkopf Vibrance
  • 7-42, 7-1 and 7-0 with 6 volume.”

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Rose Ash Blend with Face Framing Highlights

Rose Ash Blend with Face Framing Highlights
by @hairbysalah

Rose ash tint added to the highlights for dark hair vibrates with sophistication and a barely-there rebellious vibe. Despite the brighter-than-most pop of pink hues, you can easily incorporate the look into a business-like dress code.

Chestnut Ash Brown Blend

Chestnut Ash Brown Blend
by @hairbysalah

Chestnut hair topped with ashen lowlights resonates with a smokey appeal that introduces fullness and texture to the mane. It is a perfect option for those who aim at the most natural outcome but with a touch of multidimensional effect to it.

Ash Blend Perfection with Face Framing highlights

Ash Blend Perfection with Face Framing highlights
by @hairbysalah

Face framing highlights have the power to enhance the contours of your face. Combined with cooler ashen tones, the lighter strands create depth and dimension, which in turn results in a natural yet polished outcome.

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How to Maintain Ash Brown Hair

How to Maintain Ash Brown Hair
by @frances_hairartist

To make sure that your favorite ash-brown hair looks its best the longest, there are a few things that you can do to ensure that:

  • Wash your hair with sulfate-free shampoos so as not to wash the color out too fast.
  • Use a purple shampoo, and it will eliminate unwanted yellowness from your hair.
  • Opt for periodic freshen-up sessions at the salon. Stick to a 6-8 week schedule.
  • Apply hydrating masks to your mane at least once a week. This will prevent dryness and keep your strands looking healthy and smooth.

Will ash brown work on dark hair without bleach?

It depends on how your natural brown hair is. Although it is possible to achieve a satisfactory result without bleach, the outcome may not be as vibrant as you expected. Consult your hair specialist to arrive at the most fitting conclusion.

How often do I need to retouch the color?

The average recommendation is – 6 to 8 weeks. However, your hair growth rate, color treatment, and chosen technique have a say in it. For instance, balayage that is seamlessly incorporated into your natural base or semi-permanent hair dye will give you more time between salon visits.

Is it possible to achieve ash brown at home?

If you possess the right skills and products necessary for the desired outcome, you can succeed with ash brown hair at home. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you let an experienced hair professional do it for you.

Ash brown hair is a trend that deserves its reputation. It is elegant, stylish and versatile. Whether a soft balayage, bolder framing highlight, or complementing lowlights – the sky is the limit. Pick your option and embrace the chic outcome!

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