The numbers on hair dye boxes represent the level or darkness of the color, ranging from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde). These numbers, often accompanied by a decimal point and a second digit, indicate the tone or hue of the shade, such as ash, golden, or red. Understanding this system helps you choose the right hair color for your desired look.

Decoding Hair Color Numbers: Your Guide to the Perfect Shade

Ever stood in the hair dye aisle, utterly bewildered by the array of numbers and letters? You’re not alone. Deciphering hair color numbers can feel like cracking a secret code. But fear not! This guide will demystify the system, empowering you to select the precise shade that will transform your look.

What Do the Numbers on Hair Dye Boxes Actually Signify?

At its core, the primary number on a hair dye box indicates the depth or level of the color. This scale typically runs from 1 to 10. A lower number signifies a darker shade, while a higher number indicates a lighter shade.

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

This foundational number is crucial for understanding how much lift (lightening) or deposit (darkening) the dye will achieve on your natural hair color. For instance, if you have dark brown hair (level 4) and want to go lighter, you’ll need a dye with a higher number. Conversely, if you have blonde hair and want to go darker, you’ll opt for a dye with a lower number.

Understanding the Decimal: Decoding the Tone

The number following the decimal point is just as important as the first. This secondary digit represents the tone or hue of the hair color. It describes the underlying pigment or warmth of the shade. Common tones include:

• 0 or 1: Ash (cool, often blue or green undertones)
• 2: Iridescent/Violet (cool, often for neutralizing yellow tones)
• 3: Gold (warm, yellow undertones)
• 4: Copper (warm, orange undertones)
• 5: Mahogany (warm, red-violet undertones)
• 6: Red (warm, red undertones)
• 7: Blue-Green (often used in fashion colors or to neutralize red)
• 8: Blue (often used in fashion colors)
• 9: Violet (often used in fashion colors)

For example, a 7.3 would be a medium blonde with golden tones, while a 7.1 would be a medium blonde with ash tones. Understanding these tones helps you avoid brassiness or achieve the specific nuance you desire.

Putting It All Together: Common Hair Color Number Combinations

When you see a hair color described as 6.34, it means:

• 6: Dark Blonde level
• 3: Golden tone
• 4: Copper tone

This combination would result in a dark blonde with warm, golden-copper undertones. It’s a complex shade that offers warmth and richness.

Another example, 4.11, signifies:

• 4: Medium Brown level
• 11: Intense Ash tone

This dye would create a medium brown with a very strong, cool ash result, excellent for neutralizing unwanted warmth.

Why Do These Numbers Matter for Your Hair Coloring Journey?

Choosing the right hair color numbers is fundamental to achieving predictable and desirable results. It’s not just about picking a pretty picture on the box; it’s about understanding the science behind the color.

• Predicting Results: The numbers help you anticipate how the dye will interact with your current hair color. Applying a color that’s too light to dark hair won’t show up well, and a color that’s too dark can result in an overly deep, almost black shade.
• Avoiding Unwanted Tones: Understanding the tone number is key to avoiding brassiness. If your hair tends to turn orange or yellow when lightened, choosing a dye with an ash (1) or violet (2) tone can help counteract that.
• Achieving Desired Depth: Whether you want a subtle change or a dramatic transformation, the level number guides you to the correct darkness or lightness.

Common Hair Dye Number Systems Explained

While the 1-10 level system is widely adopted, some brands might use slightly different numbering conventions or additional letters. Always check the brand’s specific guide if you’re unsure. However, the core principle of level and tone remains consistent across most professional and at-home hair color products.

People Also Ask

What does the second number in hair dye mean?

The second number in hair dye, typically following a decimal point, indicates the tone or hue of the color. It describes the underlying pigment, such as ash, golden, red, or copper, and helps refine the final shade.

What does 6N mean in hair color?

In many hair color systems, ‘N’ stands for Natural. So, 6N indicates a natural dark blonde. Natural shades typically have balanced undertones and are designed to mimic the most common, true-to-life hair colors.

What does 7.1 mean in hair dye?

7.1 in hair dye signifies a medium blonde (level 7) with an ash tone (indicated by the.1). This shade is often used to counteract warm or brassy tones, resulting in a cooler, more muted blonde.

What does 5VR mean in hair dye?

5VR in hair dye typically means a light brown (level 5) with Violet-Red undertones. This combination would create a rich, warm light brown with hints of both red and violet, offering a sophisticated and dimensional color.

Can I use a hair dye number that is too light for my hair?

Using a hair dye number that is significantly lighter than your natural hair color will likely not show up effectively. Hair dye primarily deposits color; to lighten hair, you need a dye specifically designed for lifting or a bleaching process. If you use a dye that’s too light, you might only achieve a subtle tint or no visible change at all.

Ready to Choose Your Perfect Shade?

Understanding hair color numbers is your first step towards a successful at-home coloring experience. By familiarizing yourself with the level and tone system, you can confidently select products that align with your desired outcome.

Consider your natural hair color and your target shade. If you’re aiming