Cool dark brown is a hair color that has become quite popular in recent years. It is a rich, deep shade of brown that has subtle cool undertones running through it. The term “cool” refers to the hints of ash or beige mixed into the brown color, creating a sophisticated tone that flatters a wide variety of complexions.
The Characteristics of Cool Dark Brown Hair
There are several key characteristics that define this stylish hair color:
- It is a very deep, dark shade of brown – usually between levels 3 and 4 on most hair color lines.
- Subtle tones of beige, ash, or taupe are blended throughout the brown, giving it a slightly cooled-down look compared to neutral or warm browns.
- It has a lot of dimension and visual texture thanks to the nuanced mix of tones.
- When illuminated, undertones of deep espresso, chocolate, or chestnut brown become visible in the color.
- It creates a striking contrast against lighter skin tones.
- The deep tone helps disguise grey hairs well for those transitioning from darker hair.
This makes cool dark brown hair appear luxurious, shiny, and healthy looking. It is an ideal choice for creating a sophisticated and fashion-forward style.
How is Cool Dark Brown Different from Neutral or Warm Browns?
When considering going with a dark brown hair color, there are three main tone categories to choose from:
- Cool browns – Contain subtle tones of ash, beige, or taupe mixed in. This gives them a slightly muted, softer look.
- Neutral browns – Do not lean noticeably cool or warm. They are a true, balanced brown.
- Warm browns – Have underlying red, golden, or caramel tones in the color. This gives them a richer, bolder look.
Cool dark brown specifically has an ashy, almost blackened undertone that sets it apart from warmer or more neutral dark brown shades. It lacks the strong red, orange, or golden tones that would make it veer into a more chestnut or chocolate brown color family. The subtle cool tones in the dark brown base give it a very refined, polished finish.
How to Get the Cool Dark Brown Coloring
There are a couple options for achieving this trendy shade:
- Single-process color – This involves applying an all-over cool dark brown permanent or demi-permanent color. It provides the most uniform results from roots to ends.
- Double-process color – Lightening the natural hair first, then applying a cool dark brown shade on top. This allows even darker results than with single-process and is needed if transitioning from black hair.
- Lowlights – Adding cool brown lowlights underneath warmer brown hair adds subtle depth and coolness to the overall color.
- Gloss treatments – Using a cool brown semi-permanent gloss on natural hair refreshes the tone and enhances the coolness.
No matter which application method is used, the key is choosing a color with an ash, beige, or taupe base. Stylists should avoid any warm brown shades, which could muddy the intended cool tone. Focusing the cool lowlights around the face also helps create a flattering, framing effect.
Celebrity Inspiration
Many celebrities have worn stunning versions of this cool dark brown color. Their stylish looks provide great inspiration for anyone considering the shade:
| Celebrity | Photo Example |
|---|---|
| Kendall Jenner |  |
| Jennifer Lopez |  |
| Kim Kardashian |  |
As shown on these celebrities, cool dark brown hair has a stunning, almost black look to it under some lighting. But subtle chocolaty tones shine through under brighter light. It’s an edgy yet versatile color option.
Skin Tone Considerations
An important factor to consider before going with cool dark brown hair is your natural skin tone. While it can potentially flatter anyone, it looks particularly striking against lighter to medium complexions:
- Fair skin – Cool dark brown creates a high-contrast look that makes fair skin glow beautifully. Opt for an ashier base to the brown to avoid looking too harsh.
- Light to medium skin – From peach undertones to olive complexions, this versatility flatters most lighter medium skin tones well. Beige-brown bases in the color help enhance a warm complexion.
- Tan or dark skin – Cool dark brown can work, but err on the cooler ashier side to avoid blending in too much. Adding in pops of caramel highlights helps make the color pop more.
The stylish muted quality of this brown means it provides a nice complement to lighter skin without being too severe of a contrast. But adjusting the formulation based on skin warmth and depth can optimize the results.
Hair Care and Maintenance
Maintaining cool dark brown hair requires some special care. Here are some tips to keep it looking salon-fresh:
- Use shampoos and conditioners made for color-treated hair. These contain less brassiness-causing sulfates.
- Wash hair in cool water instead of hot to preserve the cool tones and shine.
- Use glossing treatments or masks weekly to enhance the color’s vibrancy.
- Look for moisturizing products with UV protection to avoid fading.
- Get a refresh gloss or toner at the salon every 4-6 weeks.
- Use an anti-yellowing shampoo occasionally if warm tones start to creep in.
- Get a trim regularly to limit dryness and split ends, which can make the color look brassy.
With the proper maintenance regime, cool dark brown hair will retain its trendy ash-kissed look and continue turning heads for weeks on end!
Conclusion
Cool dark brown hair is one of the most popular and versatile shade options today. The blend of deep, rich brown with subtle cool undertones gives it a sophisticated, almost blackened look that flatters most complexions beautifully. While it requires some special care to retain the ashy tones, the results are well worth it. Cool dark brown hair color is guaranteed to make a striking fashion statement and become an easy go-to shade.
