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Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty ImagesIt’s no secret that bleach can severely damage your hair. While visiting a professional colorist and allowing time between touch-ups can help minimize the harm, it’s best to avoid bleach entirely if your hair is already in a fragile state.
Celebrity stylist and color expert, Guy Tang, warns that “hair that looks and feels very dry” is often a sign of damage. Other indicators include lackluster appearance, breakage, thinning ends, and hair that feels stretchy or gummy when wet.
If any of this resonates with you, it’s time to steer clear of bleach and opt for one of these bleach-free hair colors at your next appointment. Even if your hair is in excellent condition, choosing one of these alternatives can keep it looking healthy.
1. Chocolate Brown
“If a client walks in with virgin, non-colored hair, they can lighten their natural color by about three levels without using bleach,” says celebrity hair artist Joseph Michael. However, for those with very dark brown or black hair, consider brightening it and adding warmth with a rich chocolate brown shade.
2. Beige Bronde
People with medium to light brown hair can achieve a bronde look without bleach. To achieve this color, your colorist will lighten your strands a few shades. A major advantage of this bleach-free color is that it complements all skin tones, blending both cool and warm shades beautifully.
3. Toffee
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Toffee is a stunning hair color just one or two shades deeper than bronde, offering both warmth and depth. If you have dark to medium brown hair, your colorist can achieve this shade without bleach. For a more natural, low-maintenance grow-out, ask your colorist to keep your roots darker with a root smudge.
4. Copper
Red hues, like copper, make for a fantastic bleach-free hair color choice, whether you have dark or light hair. This vibrant shade instantly brings a bold, fiery look, achievable with either a hair dye or a color-depositing conditioner.
5. Burgundy
For a cooler red tone, try burgundy. This shade offers a deep, wine-like hue that’s sure to catch attention. When opting for red tones, be sure to use a high-quality, fade-resistant shampoo and conditioner, as these shades are known for their tendency to fade quickly.
6. Golden Light Brown
If you’re after that golden, sun-kissed look, Cataanda James, a color expert and multicultural hair specialist, suggests trying golden brown and blonde shades. “Brunettes on the darker side can achieve stunning caramel tones and warm, golden light browns—without causing damage.”
7. Chestnut Highlights
For a subtle pop of brightness, dimension, and warmth, ask your colorist for coffee brown highlights. They can lift the color without bleach, helping to protect the hair and maintain its health and shine.
8. Caramel Blonde
Sticking to the “lighten three shades” guideline, Michael explains that natural brunettes can easily achieve a beautiful caramel blonde shade. In addition to an all-over color, you can also opt for highlights to create a more dimensional look. If you prefer a softer effect, focus the lighter strands around your face for a subtle touch.
9. Natural Blonde
Those with darker blonde or very light brown hair can lighten their strands a few shades to achieve a natural blonde look without the need for bleach, says Michael. To add either warm or cool undertones, ask your colorist about a toning treatment. This will not only enhance the color and add a glossy finish but also help seal your hair and prevent brassiness.
