This summer, the “expensive brunette” hair trend is in high demand, with salon colourists booked solid for the rich, glassy brown look. However, this style can be achieved at home, as it focuses on shine and tone rather than dramatic bleach work.
The “expensive brunette” finish is not a single shade, but rather a multi-tonal brown with depth, movement, and glass-like shine. A tinted gloss is a key product for achieving this look at home, lasting four to six weeks and costing around £7-£15.
The term “expensive brunette” refers to a finish, not a specific shade. It’s a rich, multi-tonal brown built from layered tones, giving the hair a deep and luminous appearance. This layering is what sets the “expensive brunette” look apart from a flat, all-over brown.
A dimensional brown bounces light back, creating a glass-like effect, while a flat brown absorbs light. To achieve this look at home, it’s essential to add shine and dimension to the brown, rather than trying to dramatically change the colour.
Salon visits for the “expensive brunette” look can be costly, with prices ranging from £65 to £150 or more for all-over permanent colour. In contrast, an at-home gloss costs around £7-£15, and a permanent box colour can be purchased for around £5.50-£8.00.
While a salon colourist can provide a professional finish, the cost can add up over time. An at-home gloss or toner can be a more affordable option, but it’s essential to respect the limitations of each product to achieve the desired result. They are ideal for specific tasks, such as adding shine or correcting tones.
For example, a gloss is ideal for adding shine and gentle tonal refresh, while a toner is better suited for correcting brassy or warm tones. A colour-depositing mask can provide a quick refresh of faded richness, but it’s less durable than a gloss or toner.
When selecting a product for at-home use, it’s essential to choose a shade close to your natural base. A gloss is the most suitable option for most natural brunettes, as it adds shine and dimension without dramatically changing the colour. The key is to select a product that complements your hair.
Related: Fresh No-Cook Snacks Heat Up Summer Parties
A toner, on the other hand, is best used to correct brassy or warm tones. It’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a patch test 48 hours before application to ensure the product is safe to use. They must be used with caution to avoid unwanted results.
In terms of maintenance, using a colour-safe, sulfate-free shampoo and washing your hair less often can help extend the life of the colour. A cool rinse after washing can also help seal the cuticle and lock in the pigment, making your hair look healthier.
To apply an at-home gloss or toner safely, start by patch testing the product 48 hours before application. Then, wash and towel-dry your hair, and apply the product to clean, damp hair, following the instructions carefully. This ensures the best results and minimizes potential damage.
It’s essential to section your hair and apply the product evenly, using a tinting brush or your fingers. Leave the product on for the recommended time, then rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle and lock in the pigment. The outcome will be a rich, glassy brown finish.
If you’re looking for a low-fuss maintenance routine, consider using a gloss every four to six weeks, and a colour-depositing mask in between. This can help keep your hair looking “salon-fresh” without the need for frequent salon visits, saving you time and money.
Compared to other hair trends, the “expensive brunette” look is relatively easy to achieve at home, as it focuses on enhancing the natural colour rather than making drastic changes. With the right products and a little practice, you can achieve a rich, glassy brown finish that looks like it was done in a salon, making you feel more confident.
In the UK, there are several affordable options available for at-home hair colouring, including Garnier’s in-shower gloss ranges and L’Oréal Paris. These products can be found at most high-street stores, such as Boots and Superdrug, and online at Amazon, making them easily accessible.
By following the tips and guidelines outlined above, you can achieve the “expensive brunette” look at home, without breaking the bank. Remember to always follow the instructions carefully, perform a patch test, and start with a small section of hair to ensure the best results, and you will be on your way to having great-looking hair.
