I was blonde from my teens to late twenties, which is a long time to get used to a haircare regime. One day, however, the idea struck me to become a brunette – and four years later, I’m still rocking (and loving) the colour.

One thing I’ve realised, however, is that it’s harder to get away with damage when your hair is dark. If it’s frizzy or broken, you can see the hairs sticking up from your head far easier – and if it’s lacking in lustre, the absence of shine is far more apparent than it is with lighter hues. If you get it right, however, dark hair can be truly beautiful – so why not follow my top tips for brunettes below?

1 – PICK A SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER FOR BRUNETTES
When there are some great shampoos and conditioners out there designed for specifically for brunette hair, why would you use anything else?  TIGI Bed Head Colour Combats Colour Goddess Gift Set, which includes the shampoo, the conditioner and a leave-in conditioner, is the tool for the job. The gentle sulphate-free shampoo smoothes and shines hair, repairs surface damage and prevents dryness, whilst the conditioner instantly boosts moisture and softness.

2 – USE A HAIR OIL
Once you’ve towel-dried a little moisture from your hair, I recommend smoothing through hair oil from roots to tips to further condition locks, smooth away flyaways, and boost shine. Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure Oil Miracle Finishing Treatment, £18, is ideal (if you have very fine hair, there is also a Light version). The brand offers the chance to try before you buy with a sample for just £3 – try it and prepare to be amazed about what it can do to your locks!

3 – PROTECT HAIR FROM HEAT
With split and broken hair so visible on brunettes, it pays to protect your hair from damage caused by heat styling– so if you regularly blow-dry, straighten, or curl your locks, make sure you always spray a good protector through first. I am a fan of Sexy Hair Straight Sexy Hair Smooth & Protect, £10.10, which won’t weigh down even the finest locks.

4 – REGULAR TRIMS
To keep it looking its best, head back to the salon regularly for a quick snip to tidy up those ends. If you can afford it, I recommend investing in a professional treatment whenever you head back to the salon, which will keep the colour of your brunette hair looking rich and glossy for longer.

 5 – LET IT SHINE
When it’s healthy, there are few hair colours that can pull off shine like brunettes can! Strive for a mirror-shine, glossy finish by finishing your styling regime with a spritz of shine spray. My favourite is by luxe haircare brand Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Sheer Shine Mist, £17. Spray it 8-12 inches from dry hair and wait for the sparkle!