Espresso brown is a rich, dark brunette with a soft golden reflect that helps keep the color from looking flat or overly severe. Rather than relying on obvious highlights, the shade gets its dimension from a blend of slightly lighter and darker tones, giving hair a polished, natural-looking finish.
Colorist Nataly Maldonado says warmth helps give brown hair richness, movement and shine. The golden tones in espresso brown generally appear as an undertone rather than a pronounced cast. Colorist Quia Querisma says the shade can suit a wide range of complexions, while a stylist can adjust its warmth or coolness to complement an individual’s skin tone.
How to achieve the color depends on what the hair looks like beforehand. Natural brunettes may need only a deep brown gloss with golden undertones, or subtle highlights or lowlights. Hair that is naturally very dark may require gentle lightening before the espresso shade is applied.
Previously dyed-black hair presents a different challenge: existing dye may need to be lifted before a brunette gloss can be applied. For blonde or gray hair, colorists say warmth generally needs to be restored first. Gold, copper or red pigments can help create a base for the final brown; without that step, the result may look dull or muddy. Because lightened hair is more porous and can lose pigment more readily, this preparation also matters for how long the color lasts.
Espresso brown can be relatively low-maintenance for people who are already brunette. Maldonado suggests refreshing the color about every six to eight weeks, depending on hair condition and how it holds pigment; Querisma says some brunettes may be able to wait up to 12 weeks. Those moving from blonde or gray may need more frequent salon visits as lighter roots become visible.
To help preserve the shade, colorists recommend using color-safe shampoo and conditioner, washing less often and reducing heat from styling tools and showers. Bond-repair products may be useful for hair that was previously lightened. Color-depositing masks can also refresh brunette tones between appointments, but Maldonado advises checking with a stylist before using one, particularly on highlighted or previously lightened hair.
Sources: Allure.