Red hair color comes in many beautiful shades, from bright copper to deep auburn. While genetics play a big role in determining someone’s natural red hair color, there are lots of ways to enhance your red locks or go red if you weren’t born with it. The names for red hair colors describe the different hues and depths available. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular red hair color names and options.
Natural Red Hair Color Names
If you have natural red hair, the shade is determined by the type and amount of the pigment pheomelanin in your hair. Red hair ranges from strawberry blonde to dark auburn. Here are some of the most common natural shades:
- Strawberry blonde – A mix of blond and red that skews lighter and warmer. Strawberry blonde hair has golden undertones.
- Golden red – A vibrant, rich red hair color with strong golden orange undertones. Golden red hair glows in the sun.
- Copper – A metallic, penny-bright red hair shade. Copper red hair flatters peachy complexions.
- Auburn – A reddish brown hair color with undertones ranging from red to orange to brown. Auburn occurs naturally in many shades.
- Burgundy – A luscious wine red hair color that looks nearly black, but glows red in sunlight.
- Chestnut – A deep reddish brown hair color that can appear more brown or more red depending on the light.
Enhancing Natural Red Hair Color
If you’re blessed with natural red hair, you can play up your color with enhancing hair products:
- Red-enhancing shampoo and conditioner, to refresh and intensify color.
- Red-tone gloss, to boost shine and vibrancy between color treatments.
- Heated styling tools like curling irons and flat irons, which can help bring out the warm, coppery tones in red hair.
Red Hair Dye and Color Names
If you don’t have natural red hair, you can go red with hair dye or color-depositing products. Here are some of the most popular red hair color names in the dye aisle:
- Blue-red – A cool-toned red with subtle blue undertones. Blue-reds look vibrant on fair, cool-toned skin.
- Violet-red – A red with strong violet undertones for an eye-catching effect. Violet reds flatter olive and darker complexions.
- Orange-red – A fiery red hair color with bright orange undertones. Orange-reds look best on warmer skin tones.
- Blood-red – An intense, dark, blue-based red. Blood-red hair color is dramatic against pale skin.
- Cherry cola – A mix of red and brown that mimics the hue of the soda. Cherry cola red provides a natural-looking red tint on brunettes.
Best Red Hair Color for Your Skin Tone
Choosing the right red hair color for your skin tone is key to getting a naturally flattering look. Here are some recommendations:
| Skin Tone | Best Red Hair Colors |
|---|---|
| Fair, Pink Undertones | Strawberry Blonde, Copper, Cherry Cola |
| Fair, Neutral Undertones | Golden Red, Auburn, Blue-Red |
| Fair, Olive Undertones | Violet-Red, Burgundy |
| Medium, Warm Undertones | Orange-Red, Copper |
| Medium, Cool Undertones | Blood-Red, Cherry Cola |
| Dark, Warm Undertones | Auburn, Golden Red |
Fun Red Hair Color Ideas
In addition to all-over color, you can add red to your hair in fun, creative ways:
- Ombre – Dark roots that gradually lighten towards your red ends.
- Sombre – Subtle, natural-looking blend from your natural roots to red mid-lengths and ends.
- Balayage – Hand-painted red pieces throughout for a sun-kissed look.
- Chunky highlights – Thick strips of red dyed hair throughout.
- Peek-a-boo – Hidden red pieces underneath layers that peek out when you move.
Maintaining Red Hair Color
Red hair color has a tendency to fade faster than other shades. Here are some tips to make it last longer:
- Wash hair less often, using sulfate-free shampoo to limit stripping of color.
- Rinse hair with cool water and use conditioner only from mid-lengths down.
- Allow hair to air dry instead of heat styling when possible.
- Use products specifically formulated to enhance and protect red color.
- Get a gloss or glaze treatment every 4-6 weeks for refreshed color.
Conclusion
Red hair is always a head-turning choice. Whether you opt for a bold orange-red or subtle hint of cherry cola, choose a red hair color that flatters your complexion. Take proper steps to maintain the color and enjoy your vibrant look.