When we think of brown hair, we almost automatically think of chocolate brown or any other deep, warm-toned hue. But here's the thing: those are not the only options you have in this spectrum.
Enter, ash brown—a color where brown and silver tones meet. Sometimes also popularly referred to as "milk tea beige," or "mushroom ash,", this multidimensional hue is an excellent option for a light hair color that always looks fresh and put-together.
There are so many options on how you can rock the ash brown hairstyle: you can wear it as highlights, rock a natural ombré, or even have it as a full-on dye job. The looks you can create are endless! And to show you just how many options you have, here are eight ash brown hair colors to try if you want to change up your look:
8 Must-Try Ash Brown Hair Colors
1. Milk Tea Ash Brown
Best for: Light to medium skin tones
Milk tea hair, which first became popular in Asia, is a cool combination of brown and blonde. The two hues are expertly mixed together to create a creamy color that suits all undertones. It’s specifically perfect for Filipinas since its ashy tone can bring out the warmth in our complexion!
2. Ash Brown Balayage
Best for: Fair to medium skin tones
If you’re still iffy about the concept of bleach stinging your scalp and getting your roots done every three weeks, you may consider getting a balayage first. It's incredibly low-maintenance, since it only calls for the middle and the ends of your hair to be bleached and re-dyed, creating a pretty and chic gradient effect.
3. Ash Brown Highlights
Best for: All skin tones
Contrary to what you might believe, it’s possible to ride the ash trend without going super light. You can try getting highlights first, and opt for a color with a silver undertones that'll pop against dark hair. Just be sure to use a purple shampoo and conditioner at least twice week to keep the ash tones fresh!
4. Honey Ash Brown
Best for: Warm skin tones
In case you're worried that ash brown hair might wash out your complexion, this honey-hued color is the answer. It's best when you want to try a silver-leaning shade without completely letting go of your go-to caramel or brown hue. When it comes to a shade this light, though, be sure to keep a regular toning routine to avoid brassiness.
5. Golden Ash Brown
Best for: Fair to medium skin tones
A blend of light brunette and ash blonde will give your hair an iridescence that's tough to match. However, keep in mind that if you have dark brown or black hair to start with, you’ll likely have to bleach your hair before achieving this shade of ash brown. But trust us, it will all be worth the long hours in the salon! You’ll never want to go back to your natural hue.
6. Dark Ash Brown Highlights
Best for: Medium to darker skin tones
Here’s an iteration of the ash brown trend that’s as subtle as it can get. Ask your colorist for ash brown highlights to give your tresses a lift while washing out the yellow tones from any old dye job. The end product will be simple, sleek, and very elegant!
7. Mushroom Ash Brown
Best for: All skin tones
Looking for a shade with more dimension? Consider mushroom brown. Get in balayage style or a full head of color if you're up for it, but we swear, the mixture of blonde, brown, and gray in this color will have you instantly smitten. It's no wonder it successfully transitioned from a trend to a timeless go-to!
8. Gray Brown Balayage
Best for: Light to medium skin tones
If you want something light and very cool-toned, then opt for a full gray brown balayage instead. It is a great alternative to your typical ash brown hair color, and best if you're looking for an alternative to a warm blonde!
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