Going from blonde to red hair is definitely possible, but it does require some preparation and care to make the transition successfully. Many factors come into play when going from a lighter shade to a darker one, including your current hair color and condition, whether you want to go permanent or semi-permanent, and choosing the right red hair dye brand and formula for your goals. With some planning and patience, you can rock a bold, beautiful red mane.
What to Consider Before Going from Blonde to Red
When going from blonde to red hair, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
Your Current Hair Color
If your hair is a pale or platinum blonde, you’ll need to fill the hair with a protein filler or permanent color first so the red hue will take properly. Darker blonde shades may be able to go red directly.
Hair Condition
Red dye shows up best on healthy, shiny hair. If your blonde hair is overly porous or damaged, the cuticle may not hold onto the red color well. Deep condition and treat your hair before dyeing for maximum vibrancy.
Permanent vs. Semi-Permanent
While permanent red dye will last longer, semi-permanent options fade gradually for a softer look. Permanent reds use an oxidizing developer that opens the cuticle to deposit color, while semi-permanents coat the outside of the hair shaft.
Choosing a Red Hue
From rich auburns to vibrant coppers, there are many shades of red to choose from. Go for an orangey-red on pale blondes or a darker burgundy if your hair is a honey blonde. Ask your stylist for guidance.
How to Go From Blonde to Red
Follow these step-by-step instructions for dyeing your blonde hair red:
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Hair
Examine the condition, texture, and exact shade of your current blonde hair. This will determine what preparations are needed as well as what tone of red will look best.
Step 2: Prep Your Hair
If hair is damaged, do a deep conditioning masque 1-2 weeks before dyeing. For pale blondes, fill the hair with a red protein filler to ensure the color grabs hold.
Step 3: Do a Strand Test
Test the red dye on a few isolated hair strands first. This can give you an idea of how the color will turn out. Evaluate the strand after 24-48 hours.
Step 4: Mix and Apply Color
Prepare the red hair dye according to instructions. Section your hair and use applicator bottle or brush to coat every strand from roots to ends.
Step 5: Process and Rinse
Leave the red dye on for the recommended development time. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. Use a sulfate-free shampoo for first few washes.
Step 6: Maintain Your New Red Hair
Use color-protecting shampoos and conditioners made for color treated hair. Avoid washing every day and use a sunscreen spray to maintain vibrancy. Retouch roots as needed.
Best Red Hair Dye Options for Blondes
Here are top-rated semi-permanent and permanent red hair dyes for blonde hair:
| Brand | Shade for Blondes | Type of Dye |
|---|---|---|
| Manic Panic | Rock ‘N’ Roll Red | Semi-permanent |
| L’Oreal | Intense Auburn | Permanent |
| Clairol | Natural Instincts in Copper Sparkle | Permanent |
| Arctic Fox | Wrath | Semi-permanent |
| Schwarzkopf | 6RC Fire Red | Permanent |
Tips for Choosing Red Dye
– Go for orangey reds on pale yellow blondes
– Look for dark burgundy reds if hair is beige or honey blonde
– Cool-toned blondes suit cherry and blue-based reds
– Warm-toned blondes look great with coppery orange reds
– Ask your colorist for guidance picking the right red!
Does Red Hair Fade Quickly?
How quickly red hair fades depends on several factors:
Type of Dye
Permanent red dyes with developers last longer, while semi-permanent rinse out colors wash out faster. Permanent reds can fade over a few months.
Your Hair Porosity
Porous hair often has a hard time holding onto hair color. Using a filler and protein treatments can help the hair better absorb red tones.
Shampooing Habits
Frequent shampooing, especially with sulfate shampoos, will cause red to fade more rapidly. Washing less often preserves the vibrancy.
Sun Exposure
Sunlight can significantly fade red hair dye over time. Wearing hats and using sulfate-free sunscreen sprays helps.
Water Temperature
Washing hair in hot water opens the cuticles, causing dye molecules to escape. Lukewarm water helps keep cuticles sealed.
How to Make Red Hair Last Longer
You can prolong the life of your new red hair color by:
– Using color-protecting shampoo and conditioner
– Washing hair less frequently (every 2-3 days)
– Rinsing with lukewarm water
– Doing a weekly deep conditioning treatment
– Avoiding chlorine, saltwater, and other chemicals
– Using leave-in treatments with UV filters
– Getting a gloss or glaze between dye touch ups
– Avoiding heat styling tools everyday
– Getting regular trims to prune split ends
How Light Does Hair Have to be to Go Red?
The lighter your base hair color is, the brighter and more vibrant red hair dye will show up. For the most intense copper or cherry reds, aim for pale blonde and lighter shades. Here are some guidelines:
| Base Hair Color | Red Dye Results |
|---|---|
| Pale platinum blonde | Vibrant orange-reds |
| Beige blonde | Warm auburn reds |
| Golden blonde | Rich cherry reds |
| Light brown | Subtle red tints |
| Medium to dark brown | Little to no visible red |
For the most dramatic results, hair should be lightened to a pale yellow-beige blonde or lighter first. If hair is darker than a medium golden blonde, red tones may not show at all. It’s best to consult a colorist if your base shade is dark blonde or below.
Common Issues When Dyeing Hair Red
Some common problems and how to troubleshoot:
Uneven Color
– Apply dye thoroughly from roots to ends
– Separate hair into sections during application
– Use clips to hold sections in place
Color Fades Too Fast
– Use a red color depositing shampoo
– Apply gloss or glaze treatments
– Wash hair less frequently
– Avoid washing with hot water
Red Comes Out Too Bright
– Use a semi-permanent instead of permanent dye
– Do a strand test to check color first
– Rinse the dye out sooner
– Use a toner to soften the shade
Hair Feels Dry After Dyeing
– Use a deep conditioner weekly
– Reduce heat styling and chemical treatments
– Replace sulfates with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo
– Use an intensive hair mask
Roots Darken Faster Than Ends
– Apply dye to roots last to balance out color
– Get regular touch up appointments
– Use root concealing sprays/powders
Conclusion
Transitioning from blonde to red hair is a fun way to change up your look. With some planning and proper preparation, you can achieve a beautiful, vibrant red shade. Permanent dyes will provide longer lasting color, while semi-permanents offer a temporary solution. Maintain your new red locks by using color-safe shampoos and conditioners, protecting hair from sun exposure, minimizing washing frequency, and avoiding hot water. Regular trims and deep conditioning will keep red hair healthy and shiny. Embrace the bold, colorful world of red hair dye!
