Dos and Don’ts Before You Dye Your Hair Red

If you’re thinking of going red, we get it. Redheads have all the fun, and red hair is a hot trend right now. But everyone needs to know going red is a big deal! Some people go red after a big life change (like a breakup), while others dream of going red long before they finally do. No matter your reason for wanting to be a redhead, welcome. We’re excited to have you. Before you fully commit, here are some dos and don’ts you will want to know.

DO: Consider the upkeep

Faux red hair is one of the hardest colors to upkeep. It fades easily and requires frequent touch-ups. Before going red, make sure you’re ready for what it takes to keep it looking nice. Well-maintained red hair can look amazing.

Red hair can be challenging to maintain for a few reasons. Firstly, red dye molecules are larger than other colors, so they tend to fade more quickly. Additionally, red hair often requires frequent touch-ups to maintain its vibrancy. Finally, exposure to sunlight and certain hair care products can cause red hair to fade faster compared to other colors.

To maintain red hair, try these tips:

1. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner formulated for red hair to minimize fading.

2. Wash your hair with cool water to prevent color loss.

3. Limit exposure to sunlight and chlorine, as they can cause fading.

4. Avoid frequent heat styling, as high temperatures can fade red hair.

5. Use hair masks and treatments specifically for colored hair to keep it hydrated and vibrant.

6. Schedule regular touch-ups with a professional colorist to maintain the intensity of your red hue.

7. Consider using color-depositing shampoos and conditioners to refresh your color between salon visits.

DON’T: Think you can’t pull it off

Rocking red hair is all about confidence! Fair skin and freckles are common among redheads, but remember not all redheads have these same features. There’s a shade of red for everyone and if you think red hair looks great with your coloring, bravo! You have found your color.

DO: Go to a professional

It’s tempting to dye your hair at home, and you can. But, we really recommend going to a professional. They will make sure the dye doesn’t damage your hair, the color red is right for you, and steps for the necessary upkeep is explained to you.

Finding a hair stylist you trust to dye your hair red involves a few steps:

1. Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or acquaintances who have vibrant red hair and inquire about their stylist.

2. Research Online: Look for reviews and testimonials of local salons and stylists who specialize in coloring, particularly red hair.

3. Schedule Consultations: Book consultations with a few stylists to discuss your desired red shade, maintenance needs, and ask about their experience with red hair coloring.

4. Assess Their Portfolio: Request to see before-and-after photos of red hair transformations they’ve done. This will give you an idea of their skill and style.

5. Communicate Clearly: During the consultation, communicate openly about your expectations, concerns, and ask any questions you have about the process and maintenance.

6. Trust Your Instincts: Pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the stylist and whether they listen to your preferences and offer helpful advice. Choose someone you feel confident in.

7. Start with a Trial: If you’re unsure, start with a less drastic change or a temporary red color to test the stylist’s skills and your comfort level before committing to a full color transformation.

By following these steps, you can find a hair stylist who understands your vision for red hair and has the expertise to achieve it while maintaining its vibrancy and health.

DON’T: Forget it is a commitment

Aside from needing frequent touch-ups, going red is a commitment. Red hair might fade easily but it also sticks around. If you have blonde hair you’re going to be coppery and warm for quite some time. When choosing to go red, make sure you’re okay with the process it would take to undo it, or that you’re ready to stay red for a while.

DO: Consider your eyebrows

When choosing red hair, you should consider your brows. If you have dark brows, consider tinting them red. If you have light brows, you could get a tint, or use a redhead brow gel! Mismatched brows might stand out against your new red hair.

DON’T: Worry what the haters say

If you’re going for a “natural” ginger shade of red, you’re probably going to start getting some ginger comments. People love to tease redheads, so be prepared for some snarky comments every once in a while.

DO: Embrace the red life

Being a redhead is fun. No matter if you’re born with it, or choose to go red, embrace the redhead life. We love having redheads by choice in our community and welcome you with open arms.

Rock it like a Redhead!

READ: These 6 Celebrities Just Dyed Their Hair Red And How You Can Too

Dos and Don’ts Before You Dye Your Hair Red

Ready to to Go Red? Read Up!