What Are Hair Levels and What Do They Mean for Hair Color?

Understanding hair color levels is key to setting realistic hair color goals. We break down exactly what they are so you can book your salon visit with ease.

What Are Hair Levels?

Simply put, your hair level is a measurement of how light or dark your hair is. The hair level chart ranges from Levels 1 to 10, with one being the darkest (black) and 10 being the lightest (platinum/white). Pros utilize the following hair level system to identify the depth of your hair color:

• Level 1: Black
• Level 2: Brown/Black
• Level 3: Dark Brown
• Level 4: Medium Brown
• Level 5: Light Brown
• Level 6: Dark Blonde
• Level 7: Medium Blonde
• Level 8: Light Blonde
• Level 9: Very Light Blonde
• Level 10: Lightest Blonde/Platinum/White

According to L’Oréal Professionnel artist Rebecca Murphy, the hair level chart helps your stylist establish what hair colors are within reach, how many lightening sessions the coloring process will require, and the best way to color-match your extensions. The universal hair level system also keeps communication consistent among beauty pros worldwide.

What Is My Hair Level?

Consulting a professional colorist is the best way to find your hair level, especially when considering a dramatic color transformation. But if you can’t make it to the salon, here are three strategies that can help you nail down your hair level at home.

Method 1: The natural light test

Step into a room with an abundance of natural light or go outside in a sunny area. Take a section of hair and hold it away from your scalp. You should be able to clearly see how light or dark your hair is.

Method 2: The hair level chart comparison

This is probably the easiest way to find your hair level. All you need to do is compare a section of your hair to a hair level chart (which you can find online). Keep in mind that it is possible to have a few different hair color levels throughout your mane, particularly if you have highlights, bleached, or gray hair.

Method 3: The black-and-white photo trick

Snap a picture of your hair and convert it to black and white. Then, download a photo of the hair level chart and transform that to black and white, too. Place the two images side by side, and you should be able to determine which level your hair closely matches.

What Is Hair Tone?

Hair color consists of both level and tone. While level is all about how dark or light your hair is, tone refers to the underlying pigment of your hair. You may hear your colorist describe your tone as “warm” or “cool.” Cool hair typically has silver or blueish undertones, while warm hair has a more red or golden tint.

How To Choose the Best Hair Color

When choosing a hair color, you’ll need to consider your current hair level and tone—both will affect the end result. Hair color is not one size fits all, and box color makes a lot of people think that if you pick up Ravishing Red, you’ll get Ravishing Red. It’s based on the type of hair you have on your head and the process it’ll take to get you there.

Should I go cooler or warmer?

While you should feel free to try any hair color that speaks to you, pros typically recommend coordinating your hair color with your skin’s undertones. If you have warm-toned skin, Murphy suggests opting for golden-toned colors to help bring out your skin’s natural warmth. Those with cool-toned skin, meanwhile, tend to fare well with cooler, ashier hair colors.

How To Care For Color-Treated Hair

Once you’ve achieved your desired hue, you’ll want to revamp your at-home haircare routine to keep your color vibrant between touch-ups. Look for products formulated for color-treated hair, like the Matrix Keep Me Vivid Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner. This system works to increase shine and help your hair color last for up to 21 washes. Additionally, keep in mind that coloring your hair can make your strands feel dry and straw-like. Incorporating a nourishing mask into your weekly routine can help keep your hair feeling healthy and hydrated.

Hair Levels: The Bottom Line

Understanding your hair levels will better prepare you for your salon appointment and help you set realistic goals on what to expect. During a consultation, your colorist can guide you through simple methods to find your hair level before mixing up a true-to-you hair color formula. And remember: Stocking up on salon-quality formulas can help you extend the results of your beautifully customized color.