The Best Hair Routine for Brunettes — NYC Master Colorist Guide
Brunette hair is naturally rich, shiny, and dimensional — but it can fade, turn brassy, or look dull without the right routine. Whether you’re a dark chocolate brunette, caramel balayage, mocha, or chestnut, this guide will help you maintain your shade beautifully.
1. Wash Your Hair 2–3 Times per Week
Overwashing causes brunette color to fade quickly, especially warm or balayage brunettes.
Best routine:
- Wash 2–3 times weekly
- Use warm — not hot — water
- Finish with cool water to seal shine
2. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Sulfates pull out brunette pigments and expose unwanted red/orange undertones. A gentle sulfate-free shampoo preserves your depth and tone.
3. Deep Condition Every Week
Brunette hair needs moisture to stay shiny, silky, and reflective.
- Use hydrating masks once a week
- Choose repair masks for highlighted brunettes
4. Add Shine Serum Daily
Shine is EVERYTHING for brunettes. A small amount of serum keeps hair glossy and frizz-free.
Apply to mid-shaft & ends daily.
5. Gloss Every 6–8 Weeks
Glosses deepen brunette tones, reduce brass, add shine, and seal the cuticle.
- Mocha → use neutral or cool gloss
- Chestnut → warm caramel gloss
- Balayage brunettes → neutral beige gloss
- Dark brunettes → deep cocoa gloss
Glossing is the secret to expensive-looking brunettes.
6. Protect from Heat
Heat fades brunette pigment faster and causes orange tones to appear.
- Use heat protectant every time
- Keep hot tools under 350°F
7. Avoid Hard Water (NYC Issue)
NYC water causes brunette hair to fade and turn warm or brassy.
- Use clarifying shampoo weekly
- Schedule monthly detox treatments
8. Salon Maintenance Schedule
- Full color: every 6–10 weeks
- Balayage refresh: every 3–6 months
- Gloss: every 6–8 weeks
- Haircut: every 8–12 weeks
Ready for a Brunette Refresh?
Book your brunette service at Fabi Pro Beauty and get a customized routine for healthy, shiny, dimensional hair.
Book now → https://fabiprobeauty.com/book
