Hair color is often represented by a combination of numbers and letters to indicate specific shades, tones, and levels of color. These alphanumeric codes are commonly used in the hair color industry to help both professionals and consumers identify and communicate specific colors accurately.
Here’s a breakdown of what the numbers and letters typically mean:
Table of Contents
Level
The number represents the level of darkness or lightness of the hair color. It is typically depicted on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the darkest (black) and 10 being the lightest (pale blonde). Each number in between represents a gradual change in color depth.
Tone
The letters represent the tone or underlying color of the hair. The most common letter codes used for tones are:
- N: Natural. This indicates a neutral tone without any significant warm or cool undertones.
- A: Ash. This represents a cool or grayish tone to counteract warmth or brassiness in the hair.
- G: Gold. This indicates a warm or golden tone, adding warmth and richness to the hair.
- C: Copper. This represents a warm, reddish-orange tone, often used for vibrant red shades.
- R: Red. This signifies a true red tone, used for various shades of red hair color.
- B: Blue. Occasionally used for cool-toned shades that counteract orange or brassy tones in dark hair.
By combining the level and tone codes, you can determine the specific color result you want to achieve.
For example, a hair color labeled “6N” would indicate a shade at level 6 (dark blonde) with a natural tone, while “8A” would represent a light blonde shade at level 8 with an ash or cool undertone.
It’s important to note that different hair color brands may use slightly different coding systems or additional letters to represent specific nuances or undertones. It’s always a good idea to consult the specific brand’s color chart or consult with a professional colorist for precise color matching and interpretation.
Understanding the numbers and letters in hair color codes can help you select the desired shade and communicate effectively with your stylist when discussing hair color options or purchasing hair color products.
Here’s a simplified hair color numbers chart that illustrates the typical scale used to represent hair color levels:
Hair Color Level Chart
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 – Pale Blonde
Additionally, here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used hair color tones and their corresponding letters:
Hair Color Tone Chart
N – Natural (Neutral)
A – Ash (Cool)
G – Gold (Warm)
C – Copper (Warm)
R – Red (Warm)
B – Blue (Cool)
Please note that this chart provides a general overview of hair color levels and tones. Different brands may have variations in their coding systems, and there may be additional letters or symbols used to represent specific nuances or undertones within the color range.
It’s always best to refer to the specific hair color brand’s color chart or consult with a professional colorist for accurate color selection and interpretation based on your desired results and individual hair characteristics.
Are Hair Color Numbers Universal?
Hair color numbers are not universal across all hair color brands. While there are general guidelines and industry standards, different brands may have slight variations in their numbering systems and color representations. Each brand may have its own unique coding system and may use additional letters or symbols to indicate specific tones or nuances.
It’s important to note that even within a single brand, color numbers may differ between product lines or ranges. For example, a shade labeled as “6N” in one line of a brand’s hair color may not be an exact match for a shade labeled as “6N” in another line.
To ensure accurate color selection, it’s always recommended to refer to the color chart or swatch provided by the specific brand you are using. These charts will show the exact shades and tones associated with their numbering system.
Consulting with a professional colorist is also beneficial, as they have experience working with different brands and can help guide you in choosing the right shade based on your desired outcome and individual hair characteristics.
Blonde Hair Color Chart Numbers
Blonde hair color chart numbers typically range from level 7 to level 10, representing various shades of blonde. Here is a breakdown of the typical numbering system for blonde hair colors:
7 – Dark Blonde
8 – Medium Blonde
9 – Light Blonde
10 – Very Light or Pale Blonde
Within each level, there can be variations in undertones and nuances represented by additional letters or symbols. For example, “8N” would indicate a neutral medium blonde, while “9A” would represent a light blonde with an ash or cool undertone.
Black Hair Color Chart Numbers
Black hair color chart numbers typically range from level 1 to level 2, representing the darkest shades of hair color. Here is a breakdown of the typical numbering system for black hair colors:
1 – Black
2 – Very Dark Brown (Sometimes referred to as “soft black”)
These two levels encompass the darkest hues, with level 1 being the truest black shade and level 2 being a very dark brown that appears almost black. Black hair colors are known for their depth and richness.
Brown Hair Color Chart Numbers
Brown hair color chart numbers typically range from level 3 to level 6, representing various shades of brown. Here is a breakdown of the typical numbering system for brown hair colors:
3 – Dark Brown
4 – Medium Brown
5 – Light Brown
6 – Dark Blonde (Sometimes referred to as “light brown” in some color charts)
Within each level, there can be variations in undertones and nuances represented by additional letters or symbols. For example, “4N” would indicate a neutral medium brown, while “5A” would represent a light brown with an ash or cool undertone.
It’s important to note that the specific numbering system and shades may vary slightly between different hair color brands. It’s always recommended to refer to the brand’s color chart or swatches for accurate representation and selection of blonde hair colors.
Consulting with a professional colorist is also valuable, as they can help identify the right shade of blonde based on your natural hair color, skin tone, and desired outcome. They can provide personalized recommendations and help you achieve the best results for your specific needs.
Samantha is a hairstylist with over 12 years of color and stylist experience. She enjoys using her knowledge to create what her clients really want when they sit down in her chair. Her passion is creating unique looks that her clients feel great in.