Selecting the ideal color for your client can be tricky, especially since differences in hair color can be so subtle! This is often especially true of darker hair colors, because differences in shade and tone can be harder to spot. But don’t you worry--Babe is here to help you out. Below, find some of our go-to methods for uncovering the perfect brown shade for your client.

Self-Description
One of the first things you should do when trying to match an extension color to your client’s hair is invite your client to describe their hair color in their own words. The reason for this is that actual color is not the only thing that varies from person to person--perception of color also differs, sometimes dramatically, so the first order of business should be getting on the same page.

Color Labeling
In describing their own hair color, the client likely used terms like warm, cool, bright, saturated, dull, light, dark, etc. Next, ask them to assign those adjectives to a selection of colors on your Color Ring. You can explain that you pre-selected this range of colors based off of your perception of the client’s hair color, and that you’d like for the client to narrow down the options based off of the terms that they used in their own description.

Color Swatch Test
After your client has labeled the relevant swatches and narrowed down the options, proceed to actually compare the selected strands to the client’s hair in different settings/lighting situations. Ask your client what they think of the contrast between their own hair and the swatch, and test additional strands when necessary. You could also talk about blending multiple shades for a custom result.

Undertone Test
Sometimes you’ll find yourself stuck between two (or even three) colors. When this happens, shift the focus from testing against the hair to testing against the skin. The most subtle differences between colors are often based on their relative warmth or coolness, or brightness/dullness. Fortunately, the warmth or coolness of a client’s hair typically aligns with the warmth or coolness of their skin. So select the color that looks best when draped over the client’s forearm.

With a little bit of practice, you’ll be deciphering your client’s darker shades in no time. Until then, make sure to keep up with all of our tutorial videos and educational content over on our YouTube channel!