Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional treatment. Always perform a patch test and strand test before using any chemical products.
Hair color is as personal as style. While natural hair colors generally fall into four categories, black, brunette, red, and blonde, several varying tones give people many options when choosing a hair color.
For example, blonde shades can vary from warm sunflower to cool ash, while red hair colors can range from crimson to strawberry. In this article, we compare two of the deepest brunette shades ‒ hair color 2 (darkest brown) vs hair color 4 (medium brown).
Hair Dye Numbering System
There is a color chart all colorists consult to measure the intensity of hair color shades. The number of the color indicates the shade your hair will be; the lower it is, the darker the color.
The numbers that refer to the hair color shades are typically universal, but there could be slight differences between hair color brands, depending on the production. It’s known across the board that hair color 1 is true black and hair color 10 is the lightest blonde.
While the numbers and shades mean the same to a colorist, that might not be the case for every customer. One’s idea of the darkest brown might vary from another’s, and the outcome of the color application will vary depending on the shade of your hair.
What is the Difference Between Hair Color 2 and Hair Color 4?
A subtle difference between hair colors 2 and 4 may be drastic to some and not to others. The difference is more prominent than you think.
Hair Color 2 – Darkest Brown
Hair color 2 is one subtle shade away from black, and it’s the darkest of the brown hair colors you can get. This color shade will likely appear black to most unless shown beside a true black ‒ which is hair color 1.
Some color manufacturers have their hair color shades on a scale of 2-10 and call shade 2 black, while others create a dark brown under the No. 2 shade, so it’s pertinent to do your research before choosing a color to be sure you choose the right shade.
Hair Color 4 – Medium Brown
Hair color 4 is described by most color manufacturers as medium brown. It delivers a rich, medium brown color that is a shade lighter than dark brown. Again, a few companies will list hair color 4 as light brown, so make sure you check the colors on the box carefully.
Darkest Brown or Medium Brown: Which Shade Is Right For You?
While professional hairdressers often recommend staying within two shades of your natural color for the most natural-looking results, there are no limits when darkening your hair. However, there will be some restrictions when you are lightening your hair.
- Using standard hair color, you can typically only lift natural hair by up to three shades. To go lighter than that, a professional lightener (bleach) is required.
- If you are darkening your hair, you can go down to any shade you like. However, if your hair is a light blonde color, taking it straight to black might wash out your complexion. Dramatically darkening bleached hair requires a specific ‘color fill’ process to replace missing warm pigments and prevent your hair from turning muddy or green. So, it is best done by a professional.
- There are precautions and steps you must take if you already have color-treated hair. Remember the golden rule: color cannot lift artificial color. If you have already dyed your hair, applying a lighter hair dye over it will not lighten it; you must use a color remover or bleach.
Coloring your hair and changing your look is always exciting, but you need to be careful to use the best products to keep your hair healthy and supple. If you get your hair colored at a salon by a professional, they can show you the color shade chart and help you determine the best hair color for you.
Bottom Line
The difference between hair colors 2 and 4 might be subtle to some and more noticeable to others. Do your research once you choose the color brand you want to use. A hair dye color chart is located on the back of the dye box to show what the color will be depending on your current color.
Remember that previous dye jobs will affect the outcome of the color you choose, especially if you are going lighter.
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