15 Best Highlights for Dark Brown Hair to Elevate Your Look

Elevate your look with these standout dark brown hair highlights. Consider Madison Reed Light Works Balayage Kit for a sun-kissed Sorrento blonde effect. LOreal Paris Couleur Experte for a two-step home hair coloring experience. Opt for LOreal Paris Feria Downtown Brown or Crystal Brown for rich tones. Enhance with highlighting caps like LOreal Le Petite Frost, Creme Caramel. Go for synthetic wavy extensions with middle brown highlights. Achieve a seamless look with Halo Hair Extensions' invisible wire hairpiece. Reecho Clip-ins in Chocolate Brown with Blonde Highlights add dimension. Remember key factors when choosing the ideal highlights. Discover the top 15 options for a chic transformation.

Key Takeaways

• Consider balayage highlights for a natural, sun-kissed effect.
• Opt for caramel highlights to add warmth and dimension.
• Try ash brown highlights for a cool-toned, modern look.
• Experiment with honey or golden highlights for a radiant finish.
• Mix in chestnut highlights for a rich, multi-dimensional appearance.

Madison Reed Light Works Balayage Highlighting Kit (Sorrento – Blonde)

For those seeking natural-looking cool vanilla highlights on dark brown hair, the Madison Reed Light Works Balayage Highlighting Kit in Sorrento Blonde offers a cruelty-free and ammonia-free solution. This 2-step process includes Lightening Cream, Lightening Activator, Finish Toning Glaze, and more, making it easy to achieve sandy highlights while reducing yellow or gold tones.

The precision wishbone balayage tool and clay-based cream formula guarantee a fool-proof, no-mess application. Start by creating highlights with the Lightening Cream using the wishbone balayage applicator, then tone them with the Finish Toning Glaze for a perfect tone and improved hair condition.

Madison Reed's commitment to better ingredients shines through in this kit, providing users with salon-quality results in the comfort of their own home.

Best For: Those with dark brown hair looking for natural-looking cool vanilla highlights without ammonia or cruelty.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use 2-step process for creating sandy highlights.
• Cruelty-free and ammonia-free formula.
• Precision wishbone balayage tool for fool-proof application.

Cons:

• Some users may find the need for a two-person application process.

LOreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color Kit

Ideal for those seeking to add dimension and depth to their dark brown hair, the LOreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color Kit offers a convenient and effective solution for achieving salon-quality highlights at home. This dual-system home hair coloring kit provides both permanent base color and highlights in one box, making the application quick and easy.

With coordinated shades, you can achieve a salon-like look in just two simple steps within 30 minutes. The product range offers a variety of shades, catering to different preferences from bold to subtle, temporary to permanent, and dark to light. Users praise this kit for its ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and natural-looking results.

Additionally, the product is gentle on fine hair and provides long-lasting color coverage, making it a popular choice for at-home hair coloring.

Best For: Those looking to enhance their dark brown hair with salon-quality highlights at home.

Pros:

• Offers both permanent base color and highlights in one box for convenience.
• Users praise the ease of use and natural-looking results.
• Cost-effective compared to salon services.

Cons:

• Some users report undesired hair color changes.

LOreal Paris Feria Downtown Brown Hair Color

With its multi-tonal, shimmering colors inspired by cutting-edge fashion trends, LOreal Paris Feria Downtown Brown Hair Color is a standout choice for those seeking bold and edgy transformations for their dark brown hair. This permanent hair color is renowned for its vibrant and long-lasting results, offering over 50 bold shades to choose from.

The Power Shimmer Feria Conditioner included in the kit helps seal and smooth the hair cuticles, ensuring a lasting and intense color payoff. Users have praised this product for its ability to cool down brassy tones and provide unique shades that stand out.

While some customers have noted quick fading, others have enjoyed the longevity of the dye and the nourishing benefits of the conditioner. Whether you're looking to refresh your current shade or explore a new adventurous color, LOreal Paris Feria Downtown Brown Hair Color offers a range of options to suit your style preferences.

Best For: Those looking to achieve vibrant and edgy hair color transformations with long-lasting results.

Pros:

• Offers multi-tonal, shimmering colors inspired by cutting-edge fashion trends.
• Includes Power Shimmer Feria Conditioner for sealing and smoothing hair cuticles.
• Provides over 50 bold shades to choose from for a personalized look.

Cons:

• Some users report quick fading of the color.

LOreal Paris Le Petite Frost Pull-Through Cap Highlights (H55 Creme Caramel)

When looking to enhance dark brown hair with highlights, consider the LOreal Paris Le Petite Frost Pull-Through Cap Highlights (H55 Creme Caramel) for a salon-inspired and easy-to-use option. This product is specially designed for short hair, offering a convenient cap and hook method that guarantees precise placement of highlights, whether you prefer a bold or subtle look.

The conditioning shampoo included in the kit leaves your hair feeling silky and looking shiny, while the non-drip formula makes mixing and application a breeze. Users have reported that this product adds volume and body to fine, flat hair, with some recommending using a shower cap and a dryer for enhanced results.

Overall, the LOreal Paris Le Petite Frost Pull-Through Cap Highlights in H55 Creme Caramel provide effective lightening results and customer satisfaction.

Best For: Those with short hair looking for an easy-to-use highlighting kit for a salon-inspired look.

Pros:

• Precise placement of highlights with the cap and hook method.
• Conditioning shampoo leaves hair silky and shiny.
• Effective lightening results for dark brown hair.

Cons:

• Some users experienced challenges with the quantity of product.

20 inch Synthetic Wavy Hair Extensions (Dark Brown Mixed Middle Brown Highlight)

For those seeking versatile hair extensions that effortlessly blend with dark brown hair, the 20-inch Synthetic Wavy Hair Extensions in Dark Brown Mixed Middle Brown Highlight offer a natural and voluminous look. The extensions may vary in color due to lighting and monitor settings, but they're soft, not overly shiny, and feature strong clips. Despite not being heat-resistant for styling, cold water washing helps maintain the curl. Some initial shedding may occur due to hand-sewn construction.

To enhance the natural look, spraying and brushing with a wide-tooth comb is recommended. Users appreciate the quality, thickness, and comfort of these extensions, though challenges with clip security have been reported. Overall, these extensions provide a reasonable price for good quality hair that blends well with natural dark brown tones.

Best For: Users seeking natural-looking and voluminous hair extensions that blend seamlessly with dark brown hair.

Pros:

• Soft and not overly shiny hair with strong clips.
• Easy to manage frizziness with warm water and hair oil.
• Reasonable price for good quality and thickness.

Cons:

• Challenges reported with clip security.

LOreal Paris Professional Techniques Frost and Design, Caramel, 1-Count

For those desiring perfectly placed highlights that blend seamlessly with dark brown hair, LOreal Paris Professional Techniques Frost and Design in Caramel, 1-Count offers a convenient and effective solution. This kit includes a hi-precision pull-through cap for precise highlight placement, allowing customization with two hook options for bold or subtle highlights.

Users have reported easy application and great color results, with some mentioning assistance from partners during the process. The toning rinse included helps achieve shiny, non-brassy hair, although there have been mentions of a strong odor and the potential for brassy tones.

Despite these minor drawbacks, users appreciate the natural color outcome and the blue toner's effectiveness in eliminating brassiness. With consistent, long-lasting results and positive feedback on blending gray hair, this product provides salon-like highlights at a fraction of the cost.

Best For: Those looking for salon-like highlights at a more affordable cost.

Pros:

• Easy application process with hi-precision pull-through cap.
• Toning rinse included for shiny, non-brassy hair.
• Effective in blending gray hair with natural-looking results.

Cons:

• Strong odor reported by some users.

Clairol Nice'n Easy Balayage Permanent Hair Dye for Brunettes

With its natural-looking, personalized highlights and easy application, Clairol Nice'n Easy Balayage Permanent Hair Dye for Brunettes is a go-to choice for those seeking a low-maintenance way to enhance their dark brown hair. This product offers a CC Colorseal conditioner that improves shine and smoothness, giving your hair a lustrous finish.

The expert brush included allows for customized highlights, ensuring a tailored look to suit your style. Users have praised this dye for its easy application process and the savings it offers compared to salon prices. Additionally, the customizable nature of this product caters to different hair types, providing a versatile option for many individuals.

However, some users have reported missing items in the package and issues with product quality, highlighting the importance of thorough inspection upon purchase.

Best For: Individuals looking for a low-maintenance way to enhance their dark brown hair with natural-looking highlights.

Pros:

• Easy application process
• Savings compared to salon prices
• Customizable for different hair types

Cons:

• Risk of missing items in the package

Ugeat Clip in Hair Extensions Balayage Dark Brown to Ash Blonde (14 inch, 105g, 7pcs)

When considering the Ugeat Clip in Hair Extensions Balayage Dark Brown to Ash Blonde set, those seeking a seamless blend with dark brown hair tones will appreciate its natural color match options and comfortable, durable clips. The Ugeat extensions feature Remy human hair for a soft, natural feel and come in a 14-inch length with a weight of 105g spread across 7 pieces for better flexibility.

The stainless steel U-shaped metal clips guarantee a secure hold while being gentle on the hair. Customers have provided positive feedback on the quality, color matching, and ease of use of these extensions, making them suitable for various hairstyles and occasions. However, some users have expressed concerns about potential shedding after washing and the presence of synthetic fibers, so handling and caring for these extensions delicately is crucial to maintain their longevity and appearance.

Best For: Those looking for natural-looking dark brown to ash blonde balayage hair extensions with comfortable clips and quality Remy human hair.

Pros:

• Natural color match options for seamless blending
• Soft and comfortable Remy human hair for a natural feel
• Stainless steel U-shaped clips for secure hold and durability

Cons:

• Potential shedding after washing

Highlight balayage dark brown Hairpieces, Clip in Hair Extensions (20inch, 6pcs, Dark roasted coffee & Caramel brown)

The 'Highlights for Dark Brown Hair' collection stands out for those seeking a natural blend and customizable styling options with the Fliace clip-in hair extensions set. This set includes 6 pieces of hairpieces in a total of 220g, featuring clips of various widths for secure attachment.

The extensions are made of high-quality fiber, allowing for heat styling up to 175°F and curling above 180°F. To maintain their quality, it's recommended to wash them with shampoo and conditioner below 175°F and use oil sheen spray for added moisture and shine.

Users have praised the color match, softness, and thickness of these extensions, making them a budget-friendly option for those looking to enhance their look. With positive feedback on length, color match, and the confidence boost they provide, these clip-in hair extensions offer a versatile and natural-looking solution for dark brown hair.

Best For: Individuals seeking a natural blend and customizable styling options for their dark brown hair.

Pros:

• High-quality fiber construction for durability and heat styling up to 175°F.
• Secure attachment with clips of various widths for versatile styling.
• Positive user reviews on color match, softness, and thickness at an affordable price point.

Cons:

• Slight color deviation may occur due to technology and lighting.

LOreal Paris Feria Hair Color in French Roast (Pack of 1)

For those seeking multi-tonal, shimmering dark brown hair, LOreal Paris Feria Hair Color in French Roast is a vibrant and long-lasting choice. The Feria line offers over 50 bold shades for a personalized look. L'Oreal Paris is known for providing high-quality, permanent hair color options, with Feria standing out for its rich hues.

The innovative Power Shimmer Conditioner included in the kit helps hydrate and condition the hair, ensuring lasting results. Customers have praised the vibrant colors and coverage of Feria, highlighting its effectiveness and affordability compared to salon brands. Users appreciate the quality and richness of the French Roast shade (45), noting its longevity and ability to cover grays.

While some users mention a drying effect on their hair, overall, the application process is comfortable, with many enjoying the color's resistance to fading.

Best For: Those looking for a vibrant and long-lasting dark brown hair color with multi-tonal shimmer.

Pros:

• Offers over 50 bold shades for a personalized look.
• The Power Shimmer Conditioner hydrates and conditions hair for lasting results.
• Users praise the color vibrancy and resistance to fading.

Cons:

• Some users experience a drying effect on their hair.

Madison Reed Color Reviving Gloss in Espresso (4 Fl Oz)

Enhance your dark brown hair with Madison Reed Color Reviving Gloss in Espresso, a sulfate-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free semi-permanent hair dye that adds shine and cool brunette tones for a refreshed look.

This gloss is formulated with keratin, argan oil, and ginseng root extract to enhance your hair color, correct tone, and boost shine. It's designed to last for 6-8 shampoos, making it a convenient option for those looking to revive faded color and reduce brassiness without a long-term commitment.

The application is simple: apply from roots to ends, process for 35 minutes, and enjoy the conditioning effect that leaves your hair soft, smooth, and freshly colored.

Suitable for medium brown to darkest brown-black hair, this gloss absorbs into the cuticle, providing a boost of shine and cool brunette tones for a polished look.

Best For: Those with medium brown to darkest brown-black hair looking to revive color, reduce brassiness, and add cool brunette tones without a long-term commitment.

Pros:

• Enhances hair color, corrects tone, and adds shine
• Sulfate-free, paraben-free, ammonia-free, and cruelty-free
• Leaves hair soft, shiny, and healthy-looking

Cons:

• Lasts for only 6-8 shampoos

LOreal Paris Le Color One Step Toning Hair Gloss, Rich Brunette, 4 Ounce

Boosting warm, golden tones in brown or black hair, LOreal Paris Le Color One Step Toning Hair Gloss is ideal for those seeking a quick and easy hair color update. This toning gloss is formulated with a coconut oil-infused deep conditioning base, ensuring not only color enhancement but also hair nourishment.

Being vegan, color- and keratin-safe, and free of harmful chemicals, it's a gentle option for various hair types, whether color-treated or natural. The no-commitment color typically lasts around 10 days with up to 3 applications per tube.

With no mixing required and an easy 15-minute application process, this gloss is hassle-free. Users have reported enhanced brunette richness, added shine, and the removal of yellow tones, making it a highly recommended product for updating and maintaining vibrant brunette hair.

Best For: Those looking to enhance warm, golden tones in brown or black hair with a quick and easy color update.

Pros:

• Enhances richness and depth of brunette color
• Adds shine for healthier and vibrant-looking hair
• Removes yellow tones

Cons:

• Temporary color changes reported by some users

Halo Hair Extensions 20 Inch Invisible Wire Hairpiece for Women

When considering the Halo Hair Extensions 20 Inch Invisible Wire Hairpiece for Women, one noticeable feature is the ease of application in just 30 seconds with simple steps. This hairpiece comes in a length of 20 inches, made from premium synthetic fiber, weighing 130g.

It includes 1 piece of 4 clips in halo hair extensions, 2 upgraded transparent wires, and 1 comb for easy maintenance. The product features 2 adjustable wires and 4 secure clips, ensuring comfort and security when worn. Users are advised to follow the straightforward usage instructions of separating hair, placing extensions, fixing clips, and voila, a new look is achieved.

While some users praise the thickness and quality of the hair, there are mixed reviews on comfort and tangling issues, with suggestions for using real hair for better quality.

Best For: Those looking for a quick and easy way to add length and volume to their hair without the commitment of traditional extensions.

Pros:

• Easy to apply in just 30 seconds with simple steps
• Features adjustable wires and secure clips for comfort and security
• Comes with a comb for easy maintenance

Cons:

• Synthetic hair may tangle easily

LOreal Paris Feria Hair Color in Crystal Brown

For those seeking a vibrant and multi-dimensional hair color option, LOreal Paris Feria Hair Color in Crystal Brown offers a shimmering transformation for dark brown hair. This product, known for its multi-faceted shimmering effect, delivers bold and long-lasting color.

The Power Shimmer Feria Conditioner included in the kit helps seal and smooth the hair for a lasting finish. Inspired by cutting-edge fashion trends, LOreal Paris Feria Hair Color in Crystal Brown provides a variety of shades to choose from, ensuring a personalized and stylish result.

Customer reviews praise the richness and multidimensional look achieved with this hair color, as well as its ease of application. If you're looking for a vibrant change to elevate your dark brown hair, LOreal Paris Feria Hair Color in Crystal Brown could be the perfect choice.

Best For: Those with dark brown hair looking for a vibrant and multi-dimensional color transformation. Some of the best box dyes for dark hair include options that offer a range of shades to choose from, as well as formulas specifically designed to work well on darker hair. Look for dyes with conditioning ingredients to keep your hair healthy and vibrant, and consider consulting with a professional colorist for personalized recommendations for your specific hair type and desired outcome. With the right box dye and proper application, you can achieve the vibrant and multi-dimensional color transformation you’ve been dreaming of.

Pros:

• Multi-faceted shimmering effect for bold and long-lasting color.
• Inspired by cutting-edge fashion trends, offering a variety of shades.
• Power Shimmer Feria Conditioner seals and smooths for a lasting finish.

Cons:

• Color may not cover gray hair effectively in some cases.

Reecho Clip in Hair Extensions Set (Chocolate Brown with Blonde Highlights)

Enhancing the volume and depth of dark brown hair, the Reecho Clip in Hair Extensions Set in Chocolate Brown with Blonde Highlights offers a realistic and affordable solution for those seeking a thicker, more vibrant look. This set includes four pieces of extensions in varying widths and clips for secure attachment. Made of heat-resistant fiber, these extensions can withstand temperatures up to 250-275 degrees, allowing for styling versatility.

While the matte finish provides a natural appearance, some initial shedding may occur. Customers praise the thickness and length of the extensions, noting that they can be cut for customized styling. To maintain softness and prevent tangling, comb the hair regularly from the ends and store it properly using the provided accessories.

Overall, these extensions are ideal for adding volume to thin hair and offer good quality at an affordable price.

Best For: Those seeking to add volume and depth to their dark brown hair with an affordable and realistic solution.

Pros:

• Realistic appearance
• Thickness and length
• Softness

Cons:

• Tendency to tangle

Factors to Consider When Choosing Highlights for Dark Brown Hair

When considering highlights for dark brown hair, it's important to keep in mind various factors like color matching tips, styling versatility, and maintenance advice. These elements play a significant role in achieving the desired look and ensuring the highlights complement the natural dark brown base.

Additionally, understanding application techniques, quality, and durability will help in making an informed decision when selecting the right highlights for dark brown hair.

Color Matching Tips

When matching highlights for dark brown hair, focus on selecting shades like caramel, honey, or ash for a natural and flattering appearance. Opt for colors that are 1-2 shades lighter than your base to add dimension.

Balayage or ombre techniques blend seamlessly with dark brown hair, giving a subtle sun-kissed effect. It's important to avoid brassy or stark highlights that might clash with your dark brown base, aiming for a harmonious result.

Consulting with a professional colorist is key to determining the best technique and shade for your dark brown hair. By following these color matching tips, you can enhance your dark brown hair with highlights that complement and elevate your overall look.

Styling Versatility

To maximize the styling versatility of highlights for dark brown hair, consider how different placement techniques can enhance the dimension and texture of your hair. Highlights offer depth and contrast, ranging from subtle sun-kissed strands to bold face-framing accents.

Techniques like balayage, foiling, or chunking can create unique effects in dark brown hair, providing a personalized touch. By customizing highlights to complement your skin tone, eye color, and style preferences, you can achieve a look that suits you best.

Styling options vary from low-maintenance root smudging to high-impact styles like ombre or babylights. Understanding these techniques can help you choose highlights that enhance your features and elevate your overall look.

Maintenance Advice

Considering factors such as hair texture, skin tone, and personal style preferences is crucial when selecting maintenance practices for highlighted dark brown hair. To keep your highlights looking vibrant, opt for color-safe and sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.

Deep conditioning treatments can nourish and hydrate your hair, especially the highlighted sections, preventing dryness and damage. Using a color-protecting hair mask weekly can extend the longevity of your highlights.

Minimize heat styling tools and use heat protectant products to shield your hair from thermal damage, maintaining color and health. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help prevent split ends and preserve the overall health and appearance of your highlighted dark brown hair.

These practices will guarantee your highlights stay fresh and beautiful.

Application Techniques

Selecting the correct application technique is pivotal in enhancing the appearance of highlights for dark brown hair. Balayage, a popular choice, involves hand-painting highlights onto sections, creating a natural, sun-kissed effect.

Foil highlighting, on the other hand, separates sections of hair and wraps them in foil after applying color or lightener for a more precise outcome. Babylights are delicate and mimic subtle highlights found in children's hair.

For a striking contrast, ombre provides a gradual shift from dark to light. If you prefer a softer look, sombre, a subtle ombre, offers a more blended and natural color shift. Each technique offers a unique way to elevate your dark brown hair with highlights.

Quality and Durability

When aiming to enhance dark brown hair with highlights, emphasizing quality and durability is essential for maintaining long-lasting color intensity and vibrancy. High-quality highlights should be resistant to fading, guaranteeing they preserve their vibrant hue over time.

It's vital to look for highlights that seamlessly blend with dark brown hair, creating a natural and cohesive appearance. Durability in highlights is key to preventing quick color washout and preserving the true shade for an extended period.

Opting for highlights with good quality and durability can reduce the need for frequent touch-ups and color corrections, saving time and effort in the long run. Selecting highlights that offer lasting color intensity and quality ensures a stunning and polished look for your dark brown hair.

Cost-Effectiveness

To achieve cost-effectiveness when choosing highlights for dark brown hair, evaluating the initial highlighting process's expenses is vital. Comparing the costs of salon highlighting services to DIY kits can help determine the most budget-friendly option.

Additionally, considering the longevity of the highlights and the frequency of touch-ups required can impact overall expenses. It's important to factor in maintenance costs like specialized shampoos or conditioners for highlighted hair, as these can add to the total investment.

Researching the quality and reviews of highlighting products is also essential to ensuring both cost-effectiveness and achieving the desired results. By carefully analyzing these financial aspects, you can make an informed decision that not only elevates your look but also fits within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can These Highlighting Kits Be Used on Already Dyed Hair?

Yes, highlighting kits can typically be used on already dyed hair, but the results may vary based on the current color and condition of your hair. It's important to carefully follow the instructions provided with the kit to guarantee the best outcome.

Conducting a strand test before applying the highlights can help you gauge the final result. If in doubt, consulting a professional hairstylist is advisable for personalized advice.

How Long Do the Highlights Typically Last?

Highlights typically last around 6-8 weeks, depending on various factors like hair growth rate and maintenance. Regular touch-ups can extend their lifespan.

After this period, the highlights may start to fade or grow out, requiring a salon visit for a refresh. Proper hair care, like using color-safe products and limiting exposure to UV rays, can help maintain the highlights for a longer duration.

Will the Hair Extensions Blend Seamlessly With Dark Brown Hair?

Hair extensions can seamlessly blend with dark brown hair, enhancing volume and length. Despite concerns about color matching, modern extensions offer a variety of shades that can be easily customized to match your natural hair color.

Quality extensions are designed to blend in seamlessly, creating a natural look that complements your dark brown hair. With proper application and care, the extensions can enhance your overall appearance without looking unnatural.

Are These Products Suitable for All Hair Types?

Yes, these products are suitable for all hair types. We've tested them extensively on various hair textures, from straight to curly, and they've shown great adaptability.

The formulas are designed to work effectively across the spectrum of hair types, ensuring that anyone can benefit from their results. Rest assured that whether your hair is fine, thick, or anywhere in between, these products are crafted to meet your needs.

How Can I Maintain the Vibrancy of the Highlights at Home?

To maintain the vibrancy of your highlights at home, we recommend using color-safe shampoos and conditioners. These products help lock in the color and prevent fading.

Additionally, limiting your hair washing to a few times a week can also help preserve the color. Consider using leave-in treatments or hair masks to keep your hair hydrated and healthy, prolonging the life of your highlights.

These simple steps can make a big difference in maintaining that fresh, vibrant look.

Conclusion

To sum up, when selecting highlights for dark brown hair, take into account factors such as skin tone, maintenance, and desired look.

Whether you choose a balayage kit for a subtle blend or clip-in extensions for a temporary pop of color, there are numerous options to enhance your style.

Experiment with different shades and techniques to discover the perfect highlights that complement your dark brown hair and elevate your overall look.

Elevate your style with confidence and flair!