Autumn may only last a few short months, but cozy, “fall” hair colors—like a fiery red brown hair color—don’t need to be saved for one season. Reddish brown hair in particular can bring warmth and sophistication to your look year-round. This vibrant hue is equal parts earthy and rich, and it’s flattering across all skin tones. The best part is that with a high-quality red hair dye, you can get the look without stepping into a salon. Warm up your look year-round with our red hair color recommendations and step-by-step guide below.
Red brown hair color is a shade of red hair that technically falls into the brunette family but still has gorgeous undertones of red via highlights or lowlights, all-over toner, or the balayage coloring technique. The red tones can range from a more fiery and vibrant hue, like bright copper or fire engine red, or it can lean more subtle (think hints of cherry or auburn). In other words, brown red hair is super customizable depending on your complexion, preferences, and even the season.
We love that red brown hair is so customizable, making it a hue that complements any skin tone. Check out five of our favorite variations on this warm hair color trend.
This is the option many turn to when they want a natural redhead look since auburn hair stands out without looking too stark or bright. It has a deep and rich red tint that almost gives a chili-chocolate sort of effect.
For a dark auburn brown hair, reach for L’Oréal Preference Paris Lumiere Fade Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Chic Auburn Brown (pictured below). If you prefer a light auburn brown hair color, try L’Oréal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Triple Care Hair Color in Light Auburn.
If you want to dabble only slightly in red and prefer to keep your hair more on the brunette side, a deep red brown hair color is the perfect pick. The brunette base is understated and chic, and the red shimmers through when bathed in natural light.
For the perfect red hair dye for dark hair, try L’Oréal Preference Paris Lumiere Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Dark Soft Mahogany Brown or L’Oréal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Triple Care Hair Color in Richesse Collection Dark Mahogany Red.
Drink up this hair color that looks as refreshing as your favorite soda pop. Its red tones have an almost purplish tint to them, making the dark hue anything but basic. To get this red brown hair color at home, use L’Oréal Paris Feria Hair Color in Chocolate Cherry (pictured below) or—for a slightly brighter twist—use the Brilliant Bordeaux.
One of the boldest reddish brown hair colors, copper is like auburn hair’s lighter, brighter little sister. It’s a standout shade that may remind you of a shiny penny, with a rosy glow that you want to stare at all day.
See for yourself with L’Oréal Paris Feria Hair Color in Copper Crave (a brilliant copper) or L’Oréal Preference Paris Lumiere Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Medium Copper Brown (a subtler option). The same dye in Light Amber Brown is a good option for those with already light brown, blonde, or bronde hair.
Considering red hair colors aren’t exactly known for being low-maintenance, you may be tempted to shy away from trying red brown hair even though it looks striking on you. Perhaps a red brown balayage can convince you to give it a spin. With a dark base and roots that don’t need a lot of touchups, this hair color allows you to get the red-hot look without needing to run to the salon often.
You can absolutely do your own balayage at home, too. The L’Oréal Preference Superior Preference Balayage At-Home Highlighting Kit in Medium to Dark Brown makes it super easy. If you need to go lighter, use the Light to Dark Blonde at-home balayage kit instead. Once you have your balayage highlights, you’ll want to follow up with a reddish brown hair dye to complete the look.
Getting red brown hair is as easy as heading to the salon with one of these looks bookmarked to show your stylist as inspiration. Otherwise, you can grab an at-home hair dye kit and get the look on your own. If you go that route, all you need to do is follow the instructions included with your dye. We’re also sharing an overview of the process below, but keep in mind that every boxed dye can be a bit different.
Start by parting your hair down the middle, creating two sections. Divide each section into two more equal sections so you have a total of four sections. Secure each with clips to keep them separate. This step ensures even application and makes the job way easier. Trust us!
Combine the hair dye and developer according to the instructions on the dye package. This varies depending on the product you’re using, but often it’s a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
Starting with one section, use a hair dye brush or your (gloved) fingers to apply the dye from your roots to ends. Work in small subsections to ensure even coverage. Massage the dye into your hair to saturate it completely. Repeat for all sections, ensuring no spots are missed.
Check the instructions again to see how long your color needs to set in order to develop correctly. This is usually around 20 to 45 minutes. For a more intense color or stubborn gray coverage, you might need to wait a little longer but only as directed. Set a timer so you can take the guesswork out of it; not developing enough or over developing can both lead to color issues.
Rinse your hair with warm water until it runs completely clear. Follow with a conditioner to nourish your hair and lock in the color. Often, a conditioner is included in the dye kit.
Editor’s tip: Want to make dyeing your hair at home even easier? The new L'Oréal Paris Colorsonic does all the hard work for you! It automatically mixes color and developer and parts your hair while applying the color to every strand—even the hardest-to-reach areas. Learn more in our article on how to use the Colorsonic.
Anyone who has ever dyed their hair—either at home or in a salon—knows that caring for your mane is the key to maintaining your color. This is especially true for red brown hair color, or any hue that incorporates red, since red is known for fading. Here’s how to keep your ‘do looking super fresh.
As we mentioned, red hair can fade fast. This can be made worse if you use hair products that aren’t color safe. Swap your current lineup for the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Bond Repair Shampoo with Citric Acid and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Bond Repair Conditioner with Citric Acid. Both are formulated to strengthen and smooth weak hair bonds while protecting hair from future damage and extending the life of your hair color.
It’s hard to say no to heat styling—and you don’t have to! Just be mindful of how often you’re curling, straightening, or blow drying, and always protect your strands with a heat protectant.
For a does-it-all, easy-to-use option, we recommend the L’Oréal EverPure Sulfate-Free Blow Dry Primer for 48 HR Frizz Control. It shields hair from heat damage up to 450 degrees, and the lightweight texture smooths hair and nixes frizz without feeling greasy or heavy.
Next Up: What Is Chocolate Cherry Hair Color?
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