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Blond isn't the only glam hair color. Brunettes and redheads have plenty of sizzle going for them, too. But here's the secret about age and hair color: Any color you choose to be at 50-plus — from auburn to chocolate brown — should not only delight the eye and cover grays but also give your locks a thicker, healthier look and freshen up your skin tone, too. Hair color is actually your biggest and best cosmetic — so take advantage of it! Here are 11 ways to go brunette or red.
Tortoiseshell
The chunky layers of tawny brown, toffee, caramel and gold highlights in this brown-blond streaky mix resemble the beautiful tones found in tortoiseshell jewelry. Any shade of brown hair and any skin tone can benefit from this statement color, but only an experienced colorist can create the right blend of colors and contrast for your hair texture and style. Be sure the colors blend well to avoid a striped look, and opt for this only if your hair has enough thickness or texture to show off the blend (fine hair has plenty of other options below).
Classic medium brown
This neutral hair color has its own elegance and charm and is anything but “mousy.” In fact, lots of lifelong brunettes ease into this mid-tone range for a softer, face-framing color when sun damage, wrinkles and gray hair move in. Think of how flattering medium tones of soft brown eye shadow and neutral nude lip colors are, and you'll get the idea. And here's another bonus: Even a single-process medium brown color can add radiance without a major expense. It's not always about adding highlights.
Espresso brunette
Some women have made dark brown hair their signature look and don't want to change a thing. But like any color cosmetic, hair color needs a tweak or two to stay contemporary and flattering. A discreet upgrade to a richer shade — such as espresso or chestnut brown — or the addition of tonal lights in the coffee, mocha, hazelnut range — or both — keeps the look but makes a difference. Hair and skin look immediately healthier and more luminous without being obvious. “You look great!” is the only thing you'll hear.
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