What do the hair color numbers mean?
All of our hair colors have a name and a number as well as a general color group (black, brown, blonde, red). We use Italian names because they represent the country where our colors are manufactured.
In addition to a name, all hair colors have a hair color number which describes the level and tones of the color.
Hair color is described by a few different systems internationally. We use the International color Chart classification model. This model assigns 1-3 numbers to represent the properties of each color.
Color Level refers to the lightness or darkness of the hairs base color.
Bologna 1 is the darkest (black) color in our range. Similarly, the colors become increasingly lighter as the number increases.
The first number represents the base color level only. However, it does not indicate the secondary colors which are seen in some color blends.
We represent out neutral colors with whole numbers only. Neutral colors do not have cool or warm color undertones.
According to the ICC system, hair color levels start at number 1 for true black:
Color Tone or Reflect
The Tone or Reflect of a color refers to any secondary colors or tones which can be seen in hair color in natural light.
Numbers to the right of the decimal point represent the primary and secondary tones seen in hair color. The first number to the right of the decimal represent the primary reflect, while the second number represents the secondary reflect:
There is an infograph illustrating the primary and secondary color on every color product page.
Handy hint:
Above all, it’s important to know what tone you wouldn’t want to see in your color.
If, for example, you really don’t like warm red tones in your hair, then it is best to avoid colors with warm secondary tones, as all colors with warm secondary tones include a blend of reddish tones.
Talk to our colorists today and tell us know your color goals, and we can recommend a color which works for you.
My color is a perfect mid-light brown with a cool tone. I get a cool finish which I love, with nice, softer tones through it. It’s just lovely and much nicer than the flatter, stinkier colors I used to use at home (but will never use again!).
Chaya M.
I couldn’t be happier with The Shade hair color and I will never go to the hair salon for coloring again. I usually react with an itchy and sore scalp, but not with The Shade. The process was simply. The color gorgeous and fully covered all of my grays. Thank you!
N. Barns
This is the best color I have ever used without a doubt. Gorgeous result, full gray coverage, my hair is soft and shiny. A wonderful product.
S. Kleczar
I have been using Portofino which is in the 5’s. I want to go lighter…. dark ash blonde perhaps. I have just changed colour in my subscription. Do I need to purchase a lightener from you as my hair got darker over a few colourings.
Hi Audrey,
Thanks for your comment.
Please contact one of our colourists here who would be happy to assist.
IN hope this helps!
Hi I am a level 7 naturally and level 9 blonde and wanting to touch up my roots so, am I able to use to match up my previous hair colour?
Hi! Yes, we can colour match most colours. If you could please provide a bit more information by completing our colourist questions, then we will get back to you asap with our colour recommendations. Thank you very much!