Hair Colour Number Guide – What Do 5.0, 5.1, 6.3 & 7.44 Mean?

Choosing the right hair colour can feel confusing when you see numbers like 5.0, 5.1, 6.3 or 7.44 on professional colour tubes. Understanding these numbers is the key to achieving beautiful, predictable hair colour results, whether you're a salon professional, trainee hairdresser or colouring your hair at home.

In this guide, Tulipa Hair & Beauty Supplies explains how professional hair colour numbering works and how to choose the perfect shade.

What Do Hair Colour Numbers Mean?

Professional hair colour systems use numbers to identify the depth (level) and tone (reflect) of a shade.

The first number indicates how light or dark the colour is.

Hair Colour Level Chart

• 1 – Black
• 2 – Very Dark Brown
• 3 – Dark Brown
• 4 – Medium Brown
• 5 – Light Brown
• 6 – Dark Blonde
• 7 – Medium Blonde
• 8 – Light Blonde
• 9 – Very Light Blonde
• 10 – Lightest Blonde

As the number increases, the hair colour becomes lighter.

What Does the Number After the Decimal Mean?

The number after the decimal represents the tone.

Common professional tones include:

• .0 Natural
• .1 Ash
• .2 Violet / Pearl
• .3 Golden
• .4 Copper
• .5 Mahogany
• .6 Red
• .7 Brown / Chocolate (varies by manufacturer)
• .8 Pearl
• .9 Soft Ash

Always check the manufacturer's shade chart, as tone numbering can vary slightly between brands.

Popular Hair Colour Examples

5.0 – Light Brown Natural

A classic natural light brown that provides excellent grey coverage and a timeless finish.

Ideal for:

• Covering grey hair
• Natural-looking colour
• Everyday salon colouring

5.1 – Light Ash Brown

Contains cool ash pigments that help neutralize unwanted warm or orange tones.

Best for:

• Clients wanting cooler brown shades
• Reducing brassiness
• Natural ash finishes

6.3 – Dark Golden Blonde

Adds warmth, softness and shine.

Perfect for:

• Warm complexions
• Honey blonde results
• Rich golden finishes

7.44 – Intense Copper Blonde

A vibrant copper shade that delivers bold, warm colour with plenty of personality.

Excellent for:

• Fashion colouring
• Bright copper looks
• Autumn-inspired shades

What Is the Difference Between Natural and Ash Hair Colour?

This is one of the most common questions asked by clients.

Natural (.0)

• Soft
• Balanced
• Excellent grey coverage
• Classic finish

Ash (.1)

• Cool tone
• Neutralizes orange and yellow
• Reduces warmth
• Creates modern, smoky shades

Which Hair Colour Covers Grey Best?

For maximum grey coverage, professional colourists often recommend Natural (.0) shades or a combination of Natural with another tone.

For example:

• 5.0
• 6.0
• 7.0

These provide excellent coverage while maintaining a natural appearance.

Professional Hair Colour vs Box Dye

Professional salon hair colours offer several advantages:

• More consistent colour results
• Better grey coverage
• Larger shade selection
• Professional-strength formulations
• Greater flexibility when mixing shades
• Longer-lasting colour when paired with proper aftercare

Hair Colour Tips

✔ Always carry out a patch test before colouring.

✔ Use the correct developer recommended by the manufacturer.

✔ Follow the recommended processing time.

✔ Use professional colour-safe shampoo and conditioner to help maintain vibrant colour.

✔ Seek professional advice when making significant colour changes or correcting previous colour.

Why Buy Professional Hair Colour Products?

Professional-quality products are designed to deliver reliable, beautiful results while helping maintain the health and appearance of the hair.

At Tulipa Hair & Beauty Supplies, we supply trusted professional hair and beauty products for salons, stylists and customers looking for dependable quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 5.0 mean in hair colour?

5.0 is a natural light brown shade. The "5" indicates the colour depth, while ".0" represents a natural tone.

What does ash mean in hair colour?

Ash tones contain cool pigments that help reduce unwanted warmth, brassiness and orange tones.

Which hair colour covers grey hair best?

Natural shades such as 5.0, 6.0 and 7.0 are widely used for excellent grey coverage.

Can I mix hair colours?

Yes. Professional colourists often mix compatible shades to create customized results, provided they follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Understanding professional hair colour numbers makes choosing the right shade much easier. Whether you prefer natural browns, cool ash tones, warm blondes or vibrant coppers, knowing what each number represents helps you achieve more predictable and beautiful results.

Visit Tulipa Hair & Beauty Supplies for professional hair colour products.