Red hair is associated with confidence and a bold, daring personality. Thanks to the red-nail theory that TikTok swears will get you more dates — and “cherry cola” hair that celebrities like Cardi B couldn’t get enough of — the experts at All Things Hair predict red hair will be everywhere in 2024.
With so many red shades to choose from, it can be daunting to pick the right one for you. All Things Hair recommends working with your skin’s undertones to pick your most flattering red. There are variations that complement everyone’s unique skin tone and style.
Understanding Your Skin’s Undertones
Undertones refer to the subtle color beneath your skin. The three categories are cool (with pink, red, and bluish hues), warm (peach, yellow, and golden tones) or neutral (a combination of the two).
Undertones impact the colors that look best on you, and are important to consider when changing your hair color.
Cool Undertones: These have a pinkish or blue hue, making veins appear blue or purple. Choose colors with a cool base, such as a clear coppery cinnamon, berry shades, or deep burgundy to enhance the pink and blue hues of your skin. (As shown in the photo on the far left.)
Neutral Undertones: They are a blend of both warm and cool hues, so are neither pink nor yellow. Those with neutral undertones can go with either warm or cool colors, making auburn a great choice. Auburn is a versatile reddish-brown that ranges from light to deep to bold for maximum customization. (As shown in the center photo.)
Warm Undertones: These give a yellow, golden, or peachy hue to the skin, making veins appear green. Because gold and red are analogous colors — meaning they are next to each other on the color wheel — any shade of red complements your golden undertones.
Especially flattering are bold, fiery reds. Think pumpkin spice that blends copper, orange, and red hues, or a deep warm mahogany. (As shown in the photo on the far right.)
Keep The Fire Going
Always use color-safe shampoo and conditioner, and consider washing less frequently (once or twice a week is enough). Color-safe products are formulated without alcohol and other chemicals such as sulfates, which tend to strip moisture and pigment from the hair.
Heat from styling tools and the sun’s UV rays cause hair color to fade quickly, so it’s essential to use a thermal protectant. Choose a hydrating protective product that will prevent damage and fading while conditioning and adding moisture back into the hair.
Finally, to enjoy gorgeous red locks without missing a beat, it’s essential to keep up the maintenance. Follow your colorist’s recommended touch-up schedule, and make it a habit to always book your next color appointment before leaving the salon. That way, you can fit in an appointment on the days and times most convenient for you, avoiding last-minute scrambles or delays in touching up those roots.
Allthingshair.com delivers professional hair care and styling tips from some of the world’s biggest hairstylists and brands including Dove, TRESemmé, Nexxus, Suave, Axe, Love, Beauty and Planet, SheaMoisture, and TIGI.