Red hair colour is having a serious moment — and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re drawn to soft strawberry blonde, glowing copper or a bold cherry red, the right shade of red can completely transform your look. But with so many tones to choose from, knowing where to start makes all the difference. Here’s everything you need to know before you go red.
Red, red vibes
From soft strawberry blonde and glowing copper to bold cherry and rich ruby tones, red hair is always guaranteed to turn heads. And we’re loving all the requests flowing in lately, from our blondies wanting to change it up to our brunette girls wanting something richer or fiery.
It’s one of the most striking colour choices you can make. These hot hues are bold, eye-catching and can completely transform your look.
But going red isn’t quite as simple as picking a shade you like on Insta. The most flattering red for you depends on your skin tone, your style and how much upkeep you want day to day. Get it right, and your hair can look incredible.
Which red is best for you?
One of the biggest decisions when choosing a red shade is finding the tone that works beautifully with your complexion. Reds can range from soft and subtle to bold and dramatic and the right undertone makes all the difference.
Fair skin: soft copper, strawberry blonde, light auburn.
Medium skin: rich copper, true red, warm auburn.
Olive skin: deeper reds, cherry, red-violet tones.
Darker skin: deep auburn, burgundy, red-black tones.
Eye colour can enhance the final look, but skin tone is usually the best place to start. Your stylist can then tailor the perfect shade from there.
Why red hair needs a little extra love
Before taking the plunge, it’s worth knowing that red tones usually fade faster than most other colours.
That’s because red pigment molecules are larger than other colour molecules, so they don’t always hold as deeply in the hair. Washing, heat styling and sun exposure can all soften the tone over time.
Red is high impact, but it does need a little more upkeep to keep it looking fresh. That doesn’t mean it’s difficult, but it does mean planning for maintenance from the start so your colour stays glossy and fresh.
How to keep your red vibrant for longer
A few simple habits can make a big difference:
- Switch to a colour-safe shampoo to prevent fading. Ultimately sulfate free is what you should be looking for. Alfaparf semi Di Lino is all sulfate free across the line (excluding Anti-yellow + Anti-Orange)
- Use a colour-depositing conditioner or mask between appointments to keep tones rich. We can customise any of our take home masks to match the colour we formulate in salon for you.
- Always apply heat protection before styling with heated tools.
- Wash less often and use dry shampoo to stretch time between washes.
- Turn the water temp down to extend the life of your colour.
Many clients also love booking quick gloss or refresh appointments between colour services. It’s the easiest way to keep your hair looking salon-fresh.
Red hair changes more than you think
Going red often changes more than just your hair.
Some clients find they tweak their makeup – warmer blush tones, a softer brow shade or a lip colour that complements their new look. You may even notice certain clothing colours suddenly suit you more than ever. That’s part of the fun!
Tempted to go red?
There’s a version of red for almost everyone. The secret is choosing one that suits your complexion, your personality and your lifestyle.
Book a Complimentary Colour Consultation and we’ll help you find your ideal shade, talk through maintenance and create a red look that feels completely you.
The Opulence Team x
OTHER LINKS:
- Keep Your Colour Looking Fresh Between Appointments — once you go red, learn how at home maintenance can keep your colour looking fresh!
- Shop Alfaparf Semi Di Lino — Shop Alfaparf at Opulence
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