Overview

Auburn hair is a rich, reddish-brown shade with hints of copper, mahogany, and chestnut. When searching for your ideal auburn hair color, consider your skin tone and undertone: Warmer shades with more prominent copper or crimson tones flatter warm complexions well, while those with cool skin look best in muted red-browns and rich burgundy shades.

Scroll through your TikTok or Instagram feed, and you’ll likely spot someone—whether a friend, celebrity, or influencer—with auburn hair. This flattering hue bridges the gap between bright red and a mid-toned brunette, and can be made darker, lighter, warmer, or cooler, depending on the pigments used.

If you’re toying with the idea of trying a red hair color, auburn—with its muted, versatile warmth—is often a great place to start. Ahead, we’ll explain how to find the best auburn hair color to complement your complexion, introduce you to our favorite auburn hair dyes, and reveal how to update your routine to keep your fiery new shade looking vibrant and healthy.

What Color Is Auburn Hair?

Auburn is a reddish-brown hair color with a rich brunette base and warm red, amber, or copper tones throughout. The shade can range from deep and muted to light and bright, depending on the balance of brown and red tones. The most classic version of the hue sits squarely between brown and red, with a warm but not overly vivid reddish cast reminiscent of cinnamon.

Auburn hair vs. copper hair

Auburn and copper hair can look similar, but they’re not quite the same shade. Auburn hair has a brown base with warm red or copper reflects, while copper hair leans more orange or golden. As a result, auburn hair generally has a deeper, more muted finish, while copper tends to be brighter and more vivid.

7 Stunning Auburn Hair Color Ideas To Try

Though auburn hair is often worn as a mid-toned reddish brown, the shade encompasses several hues, from deep, rich reds to bright, fiery copper tones. Below, we’re sharing some of our favorite takes on the dimensional shade.

1. Dark auburn

If you’re a natural brunette seeking a noticeable—but not overly dramatic—change, try dark auburn. This rich hue blends a chocolatey brown base with prominent cherry red overtones, creating a vibrant hue that stands out but still feels wearable. If you’re comfortable with at-home coloring, you can get the look with the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Dark Auburn. The at-home color kit is suitable for light to dark brown hair and delivers 100% gray coverage for seamless results from root to tip.