Red, red vibes

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.

“It’s one of the most striking colour choices you can make,” says colour expert Callie. “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,” explains Callie, “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,” explains Liberty. 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:

1. Switch to a colour-safe shampoo such as Wella Colour Brilliance to prevent fading.

2. Use a colour-depositing conditioner or mask, like Wella Colour Brilliance, between appointments to keep tones rich.

3. Always apply heat protection before styling with heated tools.

4. Wash less often and use dry shampoo to stretch time between washes.

5. Turn the water down to lukewarm 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 Colour Consultation and we’ll help you find your ideal shade, talk through maintenance and create a red look that feels completely you.