Remember back when Rihanna released her new album, Loud, and inspired an entire generation to reach for the red box dye? I truly never thought I’d be lusting over red hair again after that – but here we are. After Kim Kardashian and Dua Lipa both debuted bright red hues, a comeback was inevitable.
So, what do you need to know before taking the plunge? Well, red hair isn’t exactly low maintenance. You’ll need regular colour top-ups and a little bit of extra TLC.
Glossing or semi-permanent colours are a good option if you’re not ready to commit. A tinted gloss adds a red tone without the need to lighten the hair while semi-permanent dyes tend to work better on lighter hair (they fade to pink too, a bonus, if you ask me).
There’s obviously no real rules when it comes to choosing your colour. Cherry and berry tones flatter warmer skin tones while pinky-reds work well for cooler skin tones.
To keep your red looking bright, vibrant and glossy, turn the temperature down on your shower (hot water makes colours fade much quicker) and use a hydrating mask twice a week.
Now, for some inspiration.
By Beth Ludolf
FAQs
What do you need to know before dyeing your hair red?
Red hair requires regular colour top-ups and extra care to keep it looking vibrant. It is not a low-maintenance shade, so you should be prepared to give your hair some additional TLC to maintain brightness between salon visits.
Which red hair shades suit different skin tones?
Cherry and berry tones flatter warmer skin tones, while pinky-reds work well for cooler skin tones. There are no strict rules, but picking a tone suited to your skin can enhance your overall look.
How can you try red hair without committing fully?
You can opt for glossing or semi-permanent colours to test red hair before committing. A tinted gloss adds a red tone without lightening the hair, while semi-permanent dyes work best on lighter hair and may fade to pink over time.
How do you maintain bright and glossy red hair?
To keep your red hair vibrant, turn down your shower temperature and use a hydrating mask twice a week. Hot water can cause colours to fade quickly, so cooler showers and regular deep conditioning help lock in boldness and shine.