How To Color Beautiful Dark Brown Hair Perfectly

When we think of beautiful dark brown hair, we often think of actress Catherine Zeta-Jones. She wears it so well. Sometimes she lightens up her very dark tresses by a shade. But usually, her color is dark and shiny.

Believe it or not, coloring dark brown hair perfectly is not easy. We should know.

Of course, the coloring process is more damaging when you want to lighten hair, to become blonde, for example. Hair can quickly become damaged.

Then what's the big deal about becoming dark brown?

Celebrity colorist Rita Hazan of New York City, said in an interview recently that, "Brunettes are the most challenging. Their hair can turn red and brassy with added color, but look flat without it."

Rita Hazan suggests asking for gold highlights, instead of red highlights at the salon.

If you've ever tried to go darker, well, it's simple. But getting the right shade of brown is difficult. If you pick too dark a shade, your hair can turn raven, or almost black. Best to select a color one step lighter, otherwise, you will have to live with the super dark shade until your hair grows out.

As any hair colorist would tell you, pick up a box of semi-permanent color if you want to brighten up your brown. You won't be tied down to the darkness forever. A box of Clairol's Natural Instincts will cost you only $6, and the hue will wash out in 6-12 shampoos.

If you desire a much longer lasting hair color, try any of the L'Oreal products, to become a brilliant brunette and cover up gray hair. L'Oreal Paris Excellence-to-Go ($9.49) is a good one to try for shiny hair color that delivers the goods in 10 minutes.

Meantime, we just learned this little hair color tidbit:

You've heard about Waiting 48 hours before shampooing newly dyed hair.

The reason? This allows for the pigment to really soak in. And when you go to wash your hair, by the way, DO NOT use very hot water, because that can open up the hair cuticle and let out the dye.