Your Guide to Pulling Off Red Highlights

Highlights have the power to instantly upgrade your mane, adding dimension and movement. And as fall comes into full swing, red highlights in particular are on our radar. This hair color trend has surely started hitting your social media feeds as it does each year—from blonde hair with red highlights to black hair with red highlights and everything in between. Regardless of your starting color, it seems there’s a red highlight option for just about everyone. Want to update your beauty look by trying out this autumn hair trend? Consider this your guide to pulling off red highlights, complete with instructions on finding your perfect highlight hue based on your hair color, below.

THE BEST RED HIGHLIGHTS FOR BLONDE HAIR

Think you can’t pull off red highlights if you have blonde hair? Think again! It just so happens that blonde hair looks particularly stunning when paired with red highlights—though we aren’t talking dark crimson tones. For a dimensional, trendsetting head of hair this fall, consider asking your colorist for a mix of red and blonde highlights—more specifically, copper and champagne. This combination of warm-toned highlights will instantly revamp your mane with serious fall vibes.

THE BEST RED HIGHLIGHTS FOR BROWN HAIR

Calling all brunettes—we can’t seem to get enough of brown hair with red highlights! Whether you have light, medium, or dark brown hair, there’s a shade of red that’ll beautifully complement your brunette locks.

If you have light brown hair…ask your colorist for copper or light auburn highlights throughout your mane.

If you have medium brown hair…add dimension to your mane with medium auburn or mahogany-colored highlights.

If you have dark brown hair…fully embrace the red highlight trend with burgundy, maroon, or cherry highlights. The combo of dark brown hair and red highlights will refresh your mane and make for a striking contrast.

THE BEST RED HIGHLIGHTS FOR BLACK HAIR

Speaking of dark hair with red highlights and the option of a contrasted hair color, those with black hair can also sport red highlights for fall. As with dark brown hair, your best bet is to ask your colorist for a burgundy, wine-colored hue. If you’re feeling daring, you can also add life to your mane with vibrant red highlights.

THE BEST RED HIGHLIGHTS FOR RED HAIR

Who said you can’t do red on red? On the contrary, red hair with red highlights creates an equally stunning look. If you have naturally red hair, consider updating your strands by opting for red hair with highlights. You won’t have to sacrifice your beautiful, natural hair color but can still get the bit of change you crave. Those with red hair should opt for shades of red that will provide subtle dimension throughout their mane, such as copper, auburn, and rose gold.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF HAIR WITH RED HIGHLIGHTS

Anytime you color your hair, even if you only get highlights or lowlights, it’s important to take the proper hair care precautions to keep your mane looking its best. This is especially true with red color-treated hair, as this warm hue tends to fade quicker than others. Here are a few hair care tips for red highlighted hair.

HAIR CARE TIP #1: USE A PROPER HAIR CARE SYSTEM

First and foremost, using a hair care system for color-treated hair is a must. The L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Intensive Protecting Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Intensive Protecting Conditioner, and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Repair and Protect Balm work together to protect against color fade for sealed-in color vibrancy—a necessity for red highlights.

HAIR CARE TIP #2: PRACTICE SUN PROTECTION MEASURES

In case you don’t already know, the sun can actually fade your hair color! This means sun protection isn’t just an essential skin care measure, but a hair care one, too. Be sure to wear a hat when outside in the sun for long periods of time to avoid sun-induced color fade.

HAIR CARE TIP #3: SKIP THE HEAT

We’re sure you’ll be tempted to reach for your hot tools when styling your newly colored strands, but it may be best to take a break in order to preserve your color. Instead, opt for heat-free styling. For beachy waves sans heat, spritz the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle AIR DRY IT Wave Swept Spray onto towel-dried hair, braid, and allow your hair to air dry. When your hair is dry, take out the braid to reveal effortless waves that’ll showcase your dimensional hair color.

Next: Upgrade Your Autumn with These Fall Hairstyles