How to Dye Your Hair the Perfect Shade of Red

Red Hair Tip #1: Find the Right Shade 

Maynard recommends staying true to your roots. “I think people should choose a shade closest to their natural hair color,” she explains. “Natural blondes look best in strawberry blonde or light copper.” For lighter to medium brown hair colors, she recommends opting for a copper shade or a reddish-brown hue. Have dark brown or black hair? Go for a rich, deep auburn. 

Your skin tone should also be considered when choosing a shade of red. If your complexion is fair to light, a soft cinnamon red works well,  and if you have a darker complexion, consider darker reds with brown undertones. 

Red Hair Tip #2: Use Color-Safe Hair Products

“Upkeep is key with red hair,” says Maynard. Make sure you use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner duo like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Color Care System. “They are sulfate-free so they protect your hair while leaving it feeling soft and healthy,” says Maynard. A leave-in hair protectant is also good to have handy. Try a spray like Redken Hot Sets 22: Thermal Setting Mist. 

Red Hair Tip #3: Use Masks to Prolong Your Color

Red Hair Tip #4: Don’t Forget About Your Eyebrows! 

Brows should look natural and complement the red hair, which can be a bit tricky. “If your brows are the same color as your hair, they will wash you out,” says Maynard “If your hair is in the light red family, soften the brow a bit and use a dark blond or light brown eye pencil. If your hair is a vibrant red or deep auburn, I suggest softening them with a medium reddish-brown pencil to fill them in.” We’ve been loving the Maybelline New York Brow Extensions Fiber Pomade Crayon to achieve a natural look.