Hair levels are a standardized system used in hair coloring to define the lightness or darkness of hair, ranging from Level 1 (the darkest black) to Level 10 (the lightest blonde). This numerical representation is crucial for hairstylists and individuals looking to achieve specific hair colors, as it helps determine the appropriate shade based on one's current hair color and desired outcome.
Hair Level Breakdown
Here’s a summary of the hair levels:
Each level corresponds to a specific shade, allowing for a systematic approach when selecting hair color. For instance, Level 1 is often referred to as "blueblack," while Level 10 represents a bright platinum hue.
Importance of Hair Levels
Knowing your hair level is essential for several reasons:
Color Selection: It helps in selecting achievable colors based on your current shade. Typically, you can only go two levels lighter or darker than your current level without risking damage to your hair.
Color Formulation: When mixing colors, understanding the level aids in predicting how the final color will turn out, especially when considering underlying pigments that may affect the overall hue.
Hair Tone vs. Hair Level
While hair level indicates the depth of color, hair tone refers to the underlying hues present in the hair. Tones can be categorized as:
Warm Tones: Include reds, oranges, and golds.
Cool Tones: Include blues, greens, and purples.
For example, warm tones are often found in lower levels (like Level 4), while higher levels (like Level 10) may exhibit cooler tones with pale yellow hues.
Conclusion
Understanding hair levels and tones is fundamental for anyone considering a change in their hair color. By knowing your current hair level and desired tone, you can better communicate with your stylist and achieve the results you want while maintaining healthy hair.
FAQ
1. How do hair levels affect the choice of hair dye?
Hair levels significantly influence the choice of hair dye, as they determine the achievable color results based on your current hair shade. Here's how hair levels affect dye selection:
Understanding Hair Levels
Hair levels range from 1 to 10, with Level 1 being the darkest (black) and Level 10 being the lightest (platinum blonde). Knowing your current hair level is crucial because it dictates how much lighter or darker you can go with a single dye application. Typically, you can only lighten or darken your hair by one to two levels in one sitting without risking damage.
Factors Influencing Dye Choice
1. Current Hair Color: If your hair is already dyed, especially darker shades, applying a new dye won't lighten it without prior bleaching. For instance, if you have Level 4 (medium brown) hair and want a Level 6 (dark blonde), you may need to bleach first.
2. Desired Outcome: Your target shade must be realistic based on your starting level. If aiming for a lighter color, consider that bleaching can lift hair up to three to four levels, but this process can be damaging and should be approached cautiously.
3. Developer Volume: The choice of developer also plays a crucial role in achieving the desired level. Different volumes of developer (10, 20, 30, or 40) correspond to varying degrees of lift:
10 Volume: Minimal lift (12 levels), ideal for depositing color.
20 Volume: Moderate lift (23 levels), commonly used for permanent color applications.
30 and 40 Volume: Higher lifts suitable for significant color changes but can cause more damage.
4. Hair Condition: The health and porosity of your hair affect how well it absorbs color. High porosity hair may absorb dye quickly but could also lead to uneven results if not managed properly.
What is the difference between hair level and hair tone?
Hair level and hair tone are two crucial concepts in hair coloring that help define the overall appearance of hair color. Here’s a breakdown of their differences:
Hair Level
Definition: Hair level refers to the lightness or darkness of the hair, measured on a scale typically from 1 to 10. Level 1 is the darkest (black), while Level 10 is the lightest (platinum blonde).
Purpose: The level indicates how much light is reflected from the hair and serves as a baseline for determining how dark or light a color can be. It is essential for selecting the right dye, as it helps to achieve the desired depth of color.
Example: If someone has Level 4 hair (medium brown) and wants to go to Level 6 (dark blonde), they may need to lighten their hair first, depending on the dye used.
Hair Tone
Definition: Hair tone refers to the underlying hue of the hair color, which can be classified as warm, cool, or neutral. Tones include shades like gold, ash, copper, red, and violet.
Purpose: Tone affects the overall appearance of the hair color by adding dimension and richness. It can enhance or neutralize certain aspects of the base color. For example, a warm tone may give a golden sheen to brown hair, while a cool tone might create an ashy effect.
Example: A hair dye labeled as "5R" indicates a Level 5 with a red tone, meaning it has both depth (level) and a specific hue (tone).
Summary
In summary, while hair level determines how light or dark your hair is, hair tone defines the specific hue or shade that adds character to that base color. Understanding both concepts is essential for achieving desired results when coloring hair, as they work together to create the final look.
2. How do I determine my hair level and tone?
To determine your hair level and tone, follow these steps:
Finding Your Hair Level
1. Select a Section of Hair: Choose a small section from the crown of your head, away from the rest of your hair. This helps avoid the illusion of darker shades that occurs when hair is layered together.
2. Use Natural Light: Examine your hair in natural light for the most accurate assessment. This lighting helps reveal the true color without artificial influences.
3. Match to a Color Chart: Compare the selected section to a hair color level chart, which ranges from Level 1 (black) to Level 10 (lightest blonde). Identify the closest match to determine your hair level35. If you struggle to see the differences, consider taking a photo and converting it to black and white; this can help highlight the lightness or darkness of your hair more clearly.
Identifying Your Hair Tone
1. Observe Underlying Hues: Once you have established your hair level, look closely at the underlying tones in your hair. These can be warm (gold, copper), cool (ash, violet), or neutral.
2. Use a Color Wheel: A color wheel can help you understand how different tones interact. For example, if you see yellow undertones, you might want to neutralize them with violet tones.
3. Consider Tone Labels on Dyes: When selecting hair dye, pay attention to the tone indicators on color boxes (e.g., N for natural, A for ash, G for gold). This will help you choose a dye that complements or corrects your natural tone.
Summary
By following these steps, you can accurately determine both your hair level and tone, which are essential for selecting the right hair color products and achieving your desired look. If you're unsure or need assistance, consider consulting with a professional stylist who can provide expert guidance tailored to your specific hair type and goals.
3. What are the most popular hair tones for different hair levels?
Here’s a summary of the most popular hair tones associated with different hair levels, based on the provided search results:
Hair Levels and Corresponding Popular Tones
Key Points
Warm Tones: These include shades like gold, copper, and honey. They are often preferred for levels 5 to 8, as they enhance brightness and warmth in the hair.
Cool Tones: Shades such as ash, violet, and blue are popular for higher levels (6 to 10). They help neutralize unwanted warmth and create a more muted look.
Neutral Tones: These are balanced shades that do not lean too warm or too cool, making them versatile for various skin tones.
Conclusion
Understanding the relationship between hair levels and tones is essential for selecting the right hair dye. By considering both aspects, you can achieve a color that not only suits your desired depth but also complements your skin tone and personal style.
4. How do I match my hair to the correct level and tone?
To match your hair to the correct level and tone, follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine Your Hair Level
1. Select a Section of Hair: Choose a small section from the crown of your head, holding it out away from the rest of your hair. This will give you a clearer view of its true color.
2. Use Natural Light: Examine your hair in natural light, as it provides the most accurate representation of your hair color without artificial influences.
3. Compare to a Color Chart: Use a hair level chart that ranges from Level 1 (black) to Level 10 (lightest blonde). Match your selected section to the chart to identify your current hair level. If you're struggling to see the differences, convert a photo of your hair and the chart to black and white to better assess the lightness or darkness of your hair.
Step 2: Decide on Your Desired Hair Level
Once you know your current level, decide how many levels you want to change. Generally, it's advisable to go one to two levels lighter or darker for the best results without risking damage. For example, if you are at Level 4 (medium brown) and want to go lighter, aim for Level 5 or 6.
Step 3: Identify Your Hair Tone
1. Observe Underlying Hues: Look closely at your hair's color nuances. Common tones include:
Warm Tones: Gold, copper, honey.
Cool Tones: Ash, violet, blue.
Neutral Tones: A balance of warm and cool shades.
2. Use a Color Wheel: If you're unsure about your tone, refer to a color wheel. This can help you understand which tones complement or neutralize unwanted hues in your hair.
3. Consult Tone Labels: When selecting hair dye, check for tone indicators on the packaging (e.g., N for natural, A for ash). This will guide you in choosing a dye that aligns with your desired tone.
Step 4: Combine Level and Tone
Once you have determined both your hair level and desired tone, combine these elements to select the perfect shade. For example:
If you have Level 5 hair and want a warm tone, look for shades like golden blonde or honey brown.
For Level 7 with a cool tone preference, consider ash blonde or cool brown options.
5. What tools can help me determine my hair color level?
To determine your hair color level accurately, you can use several tools and methods. Here are some effective options based on the search results:
Tools to Determine Hair Color Level
1. Natural Level Tool:
This is a specialized tool that displays all 10 natural hair levels. You can place it against your scalp to find your natural level. If you don’t have one, you can download a printable version from websites like Clairol Professional.
2. Hair Color Level Chart:
A color chart that ranges from Level 1 (black) to Level 10 (lightest blonde) can help you visually match your hair color. Hold a section of hair against the chart in natural light to find the closest match.
3. Mirror and Good Lighting:
Use a mirror in natural light to examine your hair color. Hold a section of hair away from the rest to avoid the layered effect that can make hair appear darker than it is.
4. Camera Method:
Take a photo of your hair in natural light and convert it to black and white. This can help you see the lightness or darkness of your hair more clearly, making it easier to determine your level.
5. Consult a Professional:
If you're unsure, visiting a hairstylist can provide expert assistance in determining your hair level and discussing suitable coloring options based on your findings.
Steps to Determine Your Hair Level
1. Select a Section: Choose a small section of hair, preferably from the crown or roots where it hasn't been colored.
2. Stand in Natural Light: Ensure you are in good lighting conditions to accurately assess the color.
3. Use the Tools: Compare the selected section against the natural level tool or color chart until you find the closest match.
4. Note Any Variations: If your hair has highlights or is colored, focus on areas with regrowth or uncolored sections for a more accurate assessment.
By using these tools and methods, you can effectively determine your current hair color level, which is essential for selecting appropriate hair dye and achieving your desired results.
6. What are the most common mistakes when coloring hair based on levels?
When coloring hair based on levels, several common mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are the most frequent errors people make and how to avoid them:
1. Incorrect Shade Selection
Mistake: Choosing a hair dye that does not match your current hair level can result in an undesired color outcome. For example, if your hair is at a Level 4 (medium brown) but you select a dye meant for Level 6 (dark blonde), the result may not be what you expect.
Solution: Always match the dye to your current hair level and consider undertones to achieve the desired shade.
2. Skipping Developer Guidelines
Mistake: Using the wrong developer strength can affect how well the color penetrates the hair. For instance, using a higher volume developer than necessary can damage fine or previously treated hair.
Solution: Use a developer appropriate for your hair level and desired change. Generally, a 20 volume developer is standard for grey coverage, while 30 or 40 volumes should be used cautiously for significant lightening .
3. Not Accounting for Porosity
Mistake: Previously colored or damaged hair may have different porosity levels, causing uneven color absorption. This often results in roots appearing lighter than the ends or vice versa.
Solution: Apply color first to the roots and then to the mid lengths and ends, allowing for even processing time .
4. Ignoring Grey Hair Coverage
Mistake: Failing to adequately cover grey hairs, especially when using lighter shades (Levels 8 and 9), can lead to visible strands that disrupt the overall look.
Solution: Use a specific technique for grey coverage, such as applying a darker base color or using a dedicated grey coverage formula .
5. Inconsistent Application
Mistake: Random application can lead to missed spots and uneven color results.
Solution: Section your hair into quadrants and apply color systematically, starting from the roots to ensure even coverage .
6. Not Toning After Bleaching
Mistake: After bleaching, failing to tone can leave unwanted yellow or brassy undertones, especially in lighter shades.
Solution: Use a toner after bleaching to neutralize these undertones and achieve cooler tones .
7. Washing Hair Immediately Before Coloring
Mistake: Washing your hair right before dyeing can strip away natural oils that protect your scalp and hair during the coloring process.
Solution: Wait at least 24 - 48 hours after washing your hair before applying color to retain these protective oils .
Conclusion
By being aware of these common mistakes when coloring hair based on levels, you can take steps to avoid them and achieve better results. Proper preparation, technique, and product selection are key to successful hair coloring. If you're ever in doubt, consulting with a professional stylist can provide valuable guidance tailored to your specific needs.