When colouring my hair should I choose a shade lighter?

[MissMiss1]

I'm looking for a new hair colour, my hair is looking very dull and in need of a lift. I've coloured my hair so many times I'm not quite sure of my natural colour, probably a light ash brown.

Whenever I've coloured my hair in the past it always ends up far darker than on the box, or it has too much red in it.

If I want to be a light/medium brown would I be better to buy a dark blonde?

Which temporary hair colours are the best?

Yes, I always used dark blonde to get a light brown. I think it depends on how porous your hair is - mine is quite fine and it really grabs hold of dye.

Not sure about temporary; I used L'Oreal Excellence which is permanent. Just stay away from 10 minute fast acting dyes! They are really hard to get right.

Mine really holds on to colour, it soaks it up like a sponge.

I'm off out tomorrow to look for a semi permanent, wish me luck, no idea which one to get.