The Rusk hair color chart is an indispensable tool for hairstylists and clients alike. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the chart, its organization, and how to use it effectively for color matching and selection. By understanding the underlying color system and the various levels and tones, you can achieve optimal results and create stunning hair transformations.
Contents
Color Chart Overview
The Rusk hair color chart is a comprehensive guide to the range of hair color shades offered by the Rusk brand. It is organized into color families, with each family representing a different undertone. The chart also includes a variety of levels, from light to dark, to help you find the perfect shade for your desired look.
Color Families
The Rusk hair color chart includes the following color families:
- Ash
- Beige
- Brown
- Copper
- Gold
- Mahogany
- Red
- Violet
Levels
The Rusk hair color chart includes the following levels:
- Level 1: Black
- Level 2: Very Dark Brown
- Level 3: Dark Brown
- Level 4: Medium Brown
- Level 5: Light Brown
- Level 6: Dark Blonde
- Level 7: Medium Blonde
- Level 8: Light Blonde
- Level 9: Very Light Blonde
- Level 10: Platinum Blonde
Color System

The Rusk hair color chart employs a sophisticated color system that categorizes hair colors based on their underlying pigment composition. This system enables precise color selection and formulation to achieve desired results.
The chart is structured into three primary categories: Level, Tone, and Undertones. Level refers to the lightness or darkness of the hair, ranging from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde). Tone represents the warmth or coolness of the color, such as warm, cool, or neutral. Undertones are subtle hues that add depth and richness to the hair, such as red, orange, or yellow.
Level
- Level 1-3: Black to Dark Brown
- Level 4-6: Medium Brown to Light Brown
- Level 7-9: Blonde
- Level 10: Lightest Blonde
Tone
- Warm: Contains red or orange undertones
- Cool: Contains blue or violet undertones
- Neutral: Contains a balance of warm and cool undertones
Undertones
- Red: Adds warmth and vibrancy
- Orange: Enhances warmth and richness
- Yellow: Brightens and adds golden tones
Color Levels and Tones: Rusk Hair Color Chart
The Rusk hair color chart categorizes hair colors based on their depth and undertones. Color levels refer to the darkness or lightness of the hair, while tones describe the underlying hues or shades.
Color levels are numbered from 1 to 10, with 1 being the darkest (black) and 10 being the lightest (blonde). Tones are typically described using terms like warm, cool, neutral, ash, or golden.
Color Levels, Rusk hair color chart
- Level 1: Black - The darkest natural hair color, with no visible undertones.
- Level 2: Very Dark Brown - A deep brown with minimal red or golden undertones.
- Level 3: Dark Brown - A rich brown with slight warmth or coolness.
- Level 4: Medium Brown - A balanced brown with equal amounts of warmth and coolness.
- Level 5: Light Brown - A warm brown with golden or reddish undertones.
- Level 6: Dark Blonde - A cool blonde with ash or beige undertones.
- Level 7: Medium Blonde - A warm blonde with golden or honey undertones.
- Level 8: Light Blonde - A cool blonde with platinum or silver undertones.
- Level 9: Very Light Blonde - A pale blonde with almost no pigment.
- Level 10: White Blonde - The lightest hair color, with no visible pigment.
Color Tones
- Warm Tones: These tones have red, orange, or golden undertones, which create a sense of warmth and richness.
- Cool Tones: These tones have blue, green, or ash undertones, which create a sense of coolness and sophistication.
- Neutral Tones: These tones have a balance of both warm and cool undertones, resulting in a versatile and natural look.
- Ash Tones: These tones have a blue or gray undertone, which creates a smoky or muted effect.
- Golden Tones: These tones have a yellow or orange undertone, which creates a warm and vibrant look.
Color Matching and Selection
The Rusk hair color chart is an invaluable tool for selecting the perfect hair color for a specific client. By considering the client's natural hair color, skin tone, and desired outcome, stylists can use the chart to match and select the appropriate shade.
Matching the client's natural hair color is crucial for achieving a seamless blend and avoiding harsh lines of demarcation. The chart's numbered levels indicate the darkness or lightness of the hair, with higher numbers representing lighter shades. Stylists should choose a color that is within two levels of the client's natural hair color for a subtle change or within three to four levels for a more dramatic transformation.
Skin Tone
Skin tone also plays a significant role in color selection. Warm skin tones, characterized by yellow or golden undertones, complement warm hair colors such as reds, coppers, and golds. Cool skin tones, with pink or blue undertones, suit cool hair colors such as ash, silver, and platinum.
Desired Outcome
The client's desired outcome is the ultimate factor in color selection. Whether they seek a natural-looking enhancement, a bold statement color, or something in between, the chart provides a wide range of options to meet their needs.
Application and Maintenance

Achieving optimal results and preserving the desired hair color with Rusk hair color products requires adherence to recommended application and maintenance techniques. This section provides guidance on proper application methods, aftercare practices, and troubleshooting tips to ensure a successful hair coloring experience.
It is essential to follow the instructions provided with the specific Rusk hair color product being used. The following general guidelines serve as a starting point for achieving optimal results:
Application
- Pre-application: Before applying the hair color, conduct a patch test to assess for potential allergic reactions. Additionally, ensure the hair is clean and free of any styling products or buildup.
- Mixing: Prepare the hair color mixture according to the manufacturer's instructions. Rusk hair color products typically require mixing with a developer, and the ratio of color to developer may vary depending on the desired level of lift and tone.
- Application: Apply the hair color mixture evenly throughout the hair, starting at the roots and working towards the ends. Use a brush or comb to distribute the color thoroughly.
- Processing: Allow the hair color to process for the recommended amount of time, as indicated in the product instructions. The processing time may vary depending on the desired level of lift and tone, as well as the hair's porosity.
- Rinsing: Once the processing time is complete, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the hair and cause color fading.
Maintenance
- Color-protecting shampoo and conditioner: Use color-protecting shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products help to seal in color and prevent fading.
- Avoid over-washing: Excessive washing can strip away color and damage the hair. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days, or as needed.
- Protect from heat: Heat styling tools can damage color-treated hair. Use a heat protectant spray before using a blow dryer, flat iron, or curling iron.
- Regular trims: Regular trims help to remove split ends and prevent breakage, which can compromise the longevity of hair color.
Final Wrap-Up
In conclusion, the Rusk hair color chart is an essential resource for achieving precise and beautiful hair color results. With its comprehensive color ranges, detailed explanations, and user-friendly design, it empowers hairstylists to confidently select the perfect shades for each client. Embrace the power of the Rusk hair color chart and unlock the potential for vibrant, long-lasting hair color.
Answers to Common Questions
What is the purpose of the Rusk hair color chart?
The Rusk hair color chart is a visual representation of the available hair color shades, organized according to color levels and tones. It allows hairstylists to easily identify and select the appropriate color for each client.
How is the Rusk hair color chart organized?
The chart is organized into color levels, which range from 1 (black) to 10 (lightest blonde), and color tones, which include warm, cool, and neutral shades.
How do I use the Rusk hair color chart to select a hair color?
Consider the client's natural hair color, skin tone, and desired outcome. Match the client's natural hair color to the closest level on the chart, and then select a tone that complements their skin tone and desired look.


