I remember the exact moment I spotted teddy bear hair color for the first time. I was halfway through my oat milk latte, scrolling Instagram, when I saw someone’s brunette look warm, rich, and somehow… fluffy?
That’s the magic of teddy bear hair — it’s not just brown. It’s soft, golden, dimensional, and basically the hair equivalent of a cozy blanket and a warm hug.
According to celeb colorist Jenna Perry,
“This is a great hair-color choice for anybody who wants to be low-maintenance… you can achieve it by using a gloss and you can play with a few highlights.”
— Vogue
Why is it trending? Because it’s low-maintenance, flattering on most skin tones, and works beautifully whether you’re in sweater season or under the summer sun.
Below, I’m dishing out 10 ways to wear teddy bear hair color that’ll suit any hair type, texture, or vibe — plus pro tips to make each one look like you walked out of a high-end salon. Ready to glow up?
1. Classic All-Over Teddy Bear Brown
What it is: A single, rich teddy bear brown from roots to ends.
Why it works: For straight or wavy hair, this uniform color shows off depth without distractions.
Pro Tip: Ask for a warm brown with subtle golden undertones and add a clear gloss every 6–8 weeks to keep it shiny and fresh.
Who it’s for: Perfect for minimalists who want an easy, natural color that still looks luxe.
2. Teddy Bear Balayage
What it is: Hand-painted balayage highlights in caramel or soft gold over a teddy bear base.
Why it works: Creates effortless movement and grows out like a dream.
Pro Tip: Ask your stylist to keep the highlights close to your natural tone for dimension without drama. A color-safe gloss every month will keep it warm, not brassy.
Who it’s for: Medium to long-haired beauties who want dimension without high upkeep.
3. Teddy Bear with Face-Framing Highlights
What it is: Honey or caramel highlights around the face with a teddy bear brown base.
Why it works: Brightens the complexion and makes your features pop.
Pro Tip: Go no more than two shades lighter than your base for soft contrast. Use a UV-protectant leave-in spray to keep those front pieces vibrant.
Who it’s for: Anyone wanting a subtle glow-up without changing their whole head.
4. Curly Teddy Bear Hair
What it is: Warm teddy tones on natural curls or textured hair.
Why it works: Curls add dimension to the color and really show off the richness.
Pro Tip: Use a sulfate-free, moisture-rich shampoo and a weekly mask to keep curls bouncy and the color fresh.
Who it’s for: Curly-haired babes who want a color that moves with them.
5. Teddy Bear Babylights
What it is: Super fine, delicate babylights throughout for a soft shimmer.
Why it works: It looks natural, grows out beautifully, and gives a little something without looking “done.”
Pro Tip: Ask for babylights just one shade lighter than your base. Avoid heavy toners — you want it soft and diffused.
Who it’s for: First-time color clients, professionals, or anyone who loves subtle elegance.
6. Dark Teddy Bear for Cool Skin Tones
What it is: A cooler version of teddy bear brown with neutral undertones (less gold, more ash).
Why it works: Balances redness and flatters pink or cool undertones in the skin.
Pro Tip: Ask for a neutral brown gloss and avoid golden hues if your skin leans cool. A purple shampoo every other wash will help keep brass at bay.
Who it’s for: Cool-toned skin beauties looking for a brunette that won’t clash.
7. Warm Teddy Bear with Golden Ends
What it is: Teddy bear brown roots that melt into caramel-gold ends — think soft ombré.
Why it works: Adds brightness without taking away the depth of brunette.
Pro Tip: Keep the transition soft and blended, and deep-condition regularly to avoid dry, faded tips.
Who it’s for: Brunettes who want a sunlit glow without going blonde.
8. Short Hair, Teddy Bear Color
What it is: Teddy bear tones on pixies, bobs, and lobs.
Why it works: Adds richness and shine without overwhelming shorter cuts.
Pro Tip: Use a shine serum or lightweight glossing spray to enhance dimension — especially on blunt cuts.
Who it’s for: Short-haired gals looking for warmth and polish without the fuss.
9. Teddy Bear Color on Black Hair
What it is: Softly transitioning from black to teddy bear brown with warmth and depth.
Why it works: Offers a noticeable but natural change without losing that rich base.
Pro Tip: Go to a pro for lightening — this shade needs precision. Use bond-building treatments post-color.
Who it’s for: Dark-haired beauties ready for a subtle, softer shift.
10. Teddy Bear Hair with Dimension (Lowlights + Highlights)
What it is: A blend of lighter and darker teddy tones throughout for major movement.
Why it works: Adds salon-level dimension and texture — perfect for thick or long hair.
Pro Tip: Alternate caramel highlights and soft mocha lowlights to avoid flatness. A monthly gloss will keep tones balanced.
Who it’s for: Anyone wanting that luxe, multi-tonal, high-impact brunette look.
How to Maintain Teddy Bear Hair Color
You’ve got the dream shade—now let’s keep it rich, radiant, and teddy bear-soft. Here’s how to make your color last and your hair shine:
Use a sulfate-free shampoo
Sulfates can be sneaky little color-strippers. Swap them out for a gentle, sulfate-free formula to help your teddy bear tones last longer and fade less dramatically between appointments. Bonus: they’re usually more hydrating too!
Gloss or tone every 4–8 weeks
Think of this as your color’s topcoat. A gloss or toner can refresh warmth, neutralize brassiness, and bring back that salon-fresh shine—all without a full recolor. Ask your stylist to schedule quick gloss visits or try an at-home gloss kit between appointments.
Always use heat protectant before styling
Whether you’re blow drying, straightening, or curling, heat can dull your color fast. A heat protectant is your hair’s SPF—it shields those golden and caramel tones from turning brassy or dry. Look for one with added shine boosters for extra glow.
Deep condition once a week
Color-treated hair is thirstier by nature. A weekly hydrating mask helps lock in moisture, smooths the cuticle (aka keeps your strands shiny), and ensures your rich brown hues reflect light like a dream. Pick one with ingredients like argan oil, keratin, or shea butter.
Protect your hair from sun and chlorine
Sunlight and chlorine are top offenders for fading and distorting warm tones. If you’re heading to the pool or beach, use a UV-protectant spray or wear a chic sunhat. And always rinse your hair before and after swimming—your color will thank you.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s your teddy bear hair vibe? Whether you’re going full-on brown or just dipping a toe into caramel, this trend has something for everyone — and it’s here to stay. Screenshot your favorite, save it for your stylist, and don’t forget to tag me if you try it. Because your new hair color? Total main character energy.
Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @coloredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair color stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
