Indulging in a slightly sweet yet tart snack serves as a tasty pick-me-up. And if you love to stay on the healthy side with your snacking, cranberries or cranberry juice make for a solid choice. Not only are cranberries key for holiday recipes and the source of a popular beverage mixer, but they also boast a deep red hue that makes for a pretty sight. Between its vibrant color and the fact that food-inspired trends continue to maintain their popularity in the beauty world (mushroom blonde hair for one), it should come as no surprise that cranberry hair is now getting major attention.
If you’re game to step into the world of vibrant hair color, there’s a chance that this shade may be your perfect match. Ahead, we’re giving you the intel on cranberry hair color, including how to get the shade and hair-care tips to keep your locks in line.
WHAT IS CRANBERRY HAIR?
Cranberry hair is part of the red hair color family. However, this deep shade is a far cry from the classic red hues you may be familiar with. Cranberry hair color features a deep red shade with notes of fuschia (pink-purple) and magenta (a blend of pink, red and purple). This creates a look of depth and dimension thanks to the layering of colors. It can be customized to suit cool and warm undertones perfectly, since cranberry hair can range from a super saturated shade to a muted hue.
There are also different ways to execute it. You can opt for an all-over cranberry hair color. Or, you can flaunt an ombré mane with a dark base that gradually transitions into cranberry ends. If you love the idea of highlights, cranberry balayage serves as a chic way to play with color and brighten up your features.
HOW TO GET CRANBERRY HAIR COLOR
You already know that this hair color can be customized to your liking, so it’s always a smart idea to book an appointment with your colorist. You both will be able to decide which shade suits you best. Plus, if cranberry balayage has piqued your interest, a colorist will be able to expertly paint your strands on specific areas to give you the best results. Not to mention, starting with a super dark base may require the use of hair bleach to achieve your desired shade. Be sure to bring along inspiration photos so your colorist knows just what you have in mind.
On the flip side, if you love to DIY hair color, you can score cranberry hair in the comfort of your home. Reach for the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray in Red and Hot Pink along with the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color in Raspberry. These shades wash out in just one shampoo, so you can play with color without the full commitment. Apply the hues throughout your hair to achieve an all-over color that has tons of depth and dimension. You can also opt for an ombré variation by maintaining a dark base and applying the hues from the mid-lengths to ends.
HOW TO CARE FOR CRANBERRY HAIR
Now that you have the cranberry hair color of your dreams, it’s time to revamp your hair-care routine. Consider the following tips to keep your mane looking its best.
#1: REACH FOR A COLOR-SAFE HAIR SYSTEM
It’s time to say adios to your go-to shampoo and conditioner. You’ve made the switch with your hair color, so you’ll need to reach for shower essentials that are designed with color-treated hair in mind. Try the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Conditioner. This duo protects hair color and keeps your mane shiny and healthy-looking.
Once or twice a week, swap out the conditioner for the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Repair and Protect Balm to show your strands some extra love. This hair mask works to provide your mane with added moisture and helps your strands maintain a vibrant look. Leave it in for three to five minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
#2: PASS ON HEAT-STYLING TOOLS
There’s no denying that heat-styling tools can style your mane to perfection, but they can also cause heat damage if used extensively. Put your hot tools on the bench for a bit, and try a heat-free styling product instead. Apply a dollop of the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse to damp strands, scrunch and let air dry. Once complete, you’ll be able to enjoy soft and bouncy curls.
If you need to use your hot tools, be sure to prep your strands with a heat protectant. This hair-care staple works to shield your strands from heat. Spritz on the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Iron Straight Heatspray before applying heat. This essential helps to seal in shine, condition, and provide 450-degree heat protection.
#3: MAKE TOUCH-UPS YOUR BFF
While you may be diligent with your hair-care routine, there will come a time that your cranberry hair will start to fade. This is where frequent salon touch-ups will come into play. You can also take matters into your own hands with the help of a root touch-up spray. The L’Oréal Paris Magic Root Cover Up in Red can disguise your grown out roots in a pinch. Simply spray it directly onto new growth and lightly through the rest of your hair. Easy, peasy.
Next up: For those who love the idea of trying out various red hair colors, there are more options that may suit your style. Check out our article, How To Get Ruby Red Hair, for more information.