What is the Rarest Hair Color? Unveiling the Top Unique Shades.

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Ever gazed into a crowd and noticed a hair color that just stands out because it’s so unique?

While many of us are familiar with common hair shades, some hues are genuinely few and far between.

In the world of hair, rarity brings its own allure. If you’re a trivia enthusiast, hair lover, or just plain curious about what the rarest hair color on the planet is, you’re in for a treat.

We’re diving deep to unveil the most exclusive hair shades out there. Ready to discover which color takes the crown? Let’s get started!

Why are some hair colors rare?

Some hair colors are rare because they’re less common in the population.

For example, natural red hair is the rarest hair color in the world. Only 2% of the population has natural red hair, so it’s not very common.

While certain hair colors are blessed upon us based on genetics, the reason that some colors are more uncommon than others can also be explained by factors like culture, trends, and even climate.

Different climates tend to produce different results when it comes to creating a particular shade or hue of hair.

For instance – while red hair can be found in various parts of the world, it’s most commonly associated with people of northern and western European ancestry.

Other hair colors like natural blonde and specific shades of brown are also less common than black or dark brown hair, but red remains the rarest.

Of course, nowadays no one is stuck with their natural hair color. We have access to a variety of ways to customize our look including dyes and bleaches or temporary solutions.

So no matter where you live or what genes you have —nothing is stopping you from getting the hair color you desire!

How Rare is Your Hair? Top 5 Natural Colors Ranked.

There are many different hair colours in the world, but some are rarer than others.

Here’s a list of the top 5 natural colors you’ll find on the planet (and heads) today!

#1. Red hair color

What is the rarest hair color? natural red hair color
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Natural red hair is the rarest hair color in the world. Only about 1-2% of the population has natural red hair.

Red hair colours come in so many different shades – from a light auburn, to dark copper, to deep red, strawberry blonde and ginger.

If you have natural red hair, you’re in good company – celebrities like Emma Stone, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry all have it!

Red is also the most common color people dye their hair. About 6% of the population dyes their hair red.

It’s a very bold and eye-catching color, and it’s perfect for people who want to make a statement.

It’s also one of the most difficult colors to maintain, so be prepared for a lot of upkeep if you dye your hair this shade.

#2. Blonde hair color

woman with Natural Blonde hair color
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Natural blonde hair is the second rarest hair color in the world. About 2-3% of the population has blonde hair.

Blonde hair can be so beautiful, but it often requires more maintenance than other colors.

You have to be careful not to let it become too brassy or yellow. But when it’s looked after well, blonde hair is striking and unique.

Blonde hair dye is the second most common artificial hair color in the world. About 5% of the population dyes their hair blonde.

It’s typically achieved using highlights. This can make it high maintenance, but the rewards of a sun-kissed look are well worth it!

#3. Natural Gray hair color

natural gray hair color
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Gray hair is becoming more common as people are living longer lives. About 2-8% of the population has gray hair.

Natural gray hair can be either salt-and-pepper or all-white, and it often comes with age.

Some people choose to dye their gray hair, or blend it with other hair colors while others embrace the natural look.

Silver is also an on-trend shade that brings light and life back to gray hair. It can stop hair looking too yellow and brassy.

#4. Brown hair color

natural brown hair color
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Natural brown hair is the fourth rarest natural hair color in the world. About 11-13% of the population has brown hair.

Brown or brunette hair comes in so many different shades, from light caramel and ash brown to golden brown and dark chocolate. It’s a very natural, classic and timeless color.

Brunette hair dye is the fourth most common artificial hair color in the world. About 3% of the population dyes their hair brown.

Just like natural brown hair, there are so many different shades of brown hair dye to choose from.

Just make sure you pick a cool or warm color to match your natural undertones.

#5. Black hair color

natural black hair color
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Black hair is the most common hair color in the world. About 75-85% of the population has black hair or some variation of it.

Although we call it black hair – it’s actually very dark brown!

Black hair is very versatile – it can be styled in so many different ways. And because black hair has a natural shine to it, it always looks polished and chic.

Black hair dye is the third most common artificial hair color in the world. About 4% of the population dyes their hair black.

If you’re thinking of dyeing your hair black, make sure you pick a shade that will complement your skin tone and eye color. Black hair dye can be hard to remove!

What determines your hair color?

Your hair color is determined by the genes you inherit from your parents. If both of your parents have black hair, then you’re likely to have black hair too.

And if both of your parents have blonde hair, then you’re likely to have blonde hair too.

But it’s not just genetics that determines your locks. The environment and lifestyle choices you make can also affect how your hair looks.

Sun exposure, smoking, and drinking can all cause your hair to become lighter or darker than its natural color.

So if you want to change it up, it’s important to think about these factors too.

Here’s a great video that tells you about the science behind about how it all works.

What is the most common hair color?

Black and brown are the most common hair colors in the world.

A whopping 75-85% of the population has black hair and 11-13% have brown.

Why are they so common?

Brown and black hair is dominant over other hair colors.

This means that if one of your parents has brown or black hair, there’s a good chance that you will too.

What is the most popular hair color?

Right now, blonde hair color is the most popular hair color in the world.

There are a few different reasons why blonde hair is so popular.

Firstly, it’s a very versatile color. It can be light and natural-looking, or it can be darker and more dramatic.

Secondly, it generally requires more care and attention than other shades like black and brown. So that means people stick with it. When it’s done well, blonde hair can look really stunning.

Thirdly, blonde is a trendy hair color at the moment. Lots of celebrities have dyed their hair blonde, and it’s become a very popular choice for people of all ages.

Auburn hair color is another red hair shade that’s storming up the popularity charts this year.

It’s a mix of red and brown, and it comes in so many different darkness and depths. It’s a very warm and flattering hair color, perfect for everyone.

Which hair color makes you look younger?

Looking to turn back the hands of time? While there’s no magic youthful hair shade that works for everyone, there are a few rules you can follow.

For starters, red and blonde hair can be incredibly youthful, as they both have a warm and honeyed glow that’s reminiscent of summer sunshine.

On the flip side, very dark shades of brown or black can sometimes be harsh and draining, so it’s best to avoid these if you’re looking for a more youthful appearance.

If you’re still not sure which shade to choose, a good stylist should be able to guide you in the right direction depending on your skin tones and hair condition.

What hair color will suit me?

This is a difficult question to answer because everyone is different.

But generally, people with light eyes look great with blonde hair, people with medium skin tones look great with auburn hair, and people with dark skin tones look great with black hair.

But it’s always best to experiment and see what you like the best! There are so many to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that suits you.

Fortunately, we have a quick quiz that can help!

What hair color suits me?

Parting words.

So, those are the five most common hair colors in the world.

Whichever one you choose, make sure you find a hair dye that will complement your skin tone and eye color.

And don’t forget to take care of your hair properly – using the right shampoo and conditioner is essential!

This article was written by:

  • Nicola Freeman, Creative Director & Content Lead
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    Creative Director & Content Lead

    With over two decades of passionate hair dyeing experience, I've experimented with nearly every shade imaginable. My journey began long before blogging; as an award-winning copywriter in London and New York, I shaped narratives for iconic brands. However, when friends sought advice during lockdown for at-home hair dyeing, I realized my true calling. Beyond being your hair color expert, I'm a mom of two girls, wife to artist Tony, and an avid soccer player!