Matte Black Hair

Most black hair tries to shine like glass. Matte black does the opposite. It is a deep, inky, softly diffused shade that reads as velvet rather than patent leather, and it is turning up on London clients who want drama without the high-gloss finish.

What Is Matte Black Hair?

Matte black is a true, dense black with a soft, light-absorbing finish. There is no blue sheen and no reflective glare, just depth. Think ink, charcoal and velvet. It sits at the opposite end of the dial from glass hair, which is all about mirror shine.

Matte black hair

The look suits people who like their style graphic and understated. On camera it photographs as rich and flat in the best way, and in daylight it looks expensive rather than harsh.

Who Does It Suit?

Matte black works on most skin tones, but the undertone you choose matters. Cooler, neutral blacks flatter pale and olive skin. Slightly softer, warmer blacks are kinder on deeper complexions and on anyone worried that jet black will look severe. Your colourist will look at your skin, your eyes and your natural base before choosing the exact tone.

It also looks best on hair in good condition. A flat finish shows rough texture more than a high-shine one, so a precise cut and healthy ends do a lot of the work.

How We Get the Colour

If you are naturally dark, matte black is usually a single-process colour with the tone built to be neutral rather than blue. If your hair is lighter or has been bleached, we need to rebuild depth first so the black does not turn muddy or fade patchy. Going from lighter shades to black is simple on the day but harder to reverse, so have a proper consultation before you commit. If you are ever unsure, read our guide on removing black hair dye to see what undoing it involves.

We keep gloss to a minimum on this shade. The aim is richness, not reflection, so we tailor any finishing treatment to the finish you want.

Keeping It Rich

Black fades to a warmer, rusty tone faster than most people expect, especially in London water. A few habits help:

  • Wash with a sulphate-free shampoo and lukewarm water.
  • Use a colour-safe conditioner and a weekly mask.
  • Protect from heat and strong sun, both of which lift pigment.
  • Book a refresh every six to eight weeks to keep the depth even.

More tips in our guide to making your hair colour last and our notes on London hard water and colour.

Want to try matte black? Book at Oxford Street | Book at Covent Garden, and your colourist will talk you through the right tone for you.