Tempted to take the trendy shade for a spin? Ahead, experts share everything you need to know about going hot honey blonde.
How to ask for hot honey blonde at the salon
Celebrity colorist Jeremy Cohen says that while any natural hair color can achieve the hot honey look, brunette is often the ideal starting point. “[Brunettes] already have underlying warmth in the hair. When you lighten them, those warm tones naturally come through, which makes the end result look richer, more dimensional, and a lot more effortless,” he explains.
“For me, it’s all about controlled warmth and thoughtful placement. I start by going in with Paul Mitchell Professional Pre-Bonded Lightener, using a mix of fine babylights and slightly thicker weaves to create that natural-looking dimension, while strategically leaving depth in between for contrast so it never feels flat,” Dawson says.
Looking to recreate Hilton’s shade exactly? “Tone is everything,” Dawson says. “I refine with a gloss that blends honey, gold, and a touch of neutral to keep it rich but still polished. I build the dimension with Paul Mitchell The Demi 8NB (8/07) at the root for a soft shadow, and Paul Mitchell The Demi 10NB (10/07) through the midlengths and ends to create that perfect hot honey tone.”
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When plotting with your colorist, Dawson recommends asking for a “warm, dimensional blonde with honey and soft caramel tones,” noting that it shouldn’t look too brassy or yellow. Descriptors like “lived-in,” “glossy,” and “low-maintenance brightness,” plus asking for a “shadow root” will help you get there.
This is also a tone you’ll want to work with your stylist to customize. “Bring reference photos,” Cohen says. “It’s the most effective way to communicate tone, depth, and placement, and ensures you and your colorist are aligned on the end result.”
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