Red hair is a beautiful and unique color that can really make a statement.
If you’re looking to dye your hair red, then you’ll want to check out the best red hair color for dark hair on the market today.
In this blog post, we’ll be talking about nine of the best red hair dyes available, so you can find the perfect one for you.
We’ll also be discussing what to look for when choosing a red hair dye, as well as how to use it properly.
So whether you’re new to dyeing your hair red or you’ve been doing it for years, read on for some helpful tips!
Top 9 Best Red Hair Dyes For Dark Hair Reviewed
- Clairol Professional Flare Me Hair Color – Top Pick
- Clairol Professional Texture and Tones
- AGEbeautiful Permanent Liqui-Creme Hair Color Dye
- Wella Color Charm Permanent Gel Hair Color
- Celeb Luxury Colorwash Color Depositing Shampoo – Best Semi Permanent Red Hair Dye For Dark Hair
- L’Oreal Excellence HiColor Red
- ARCTIC FOX Semi-Permanent Hair Color Dye
- L’Oreal Paris Feria Permanent Hair Color
- Splat Midnight No Bleach Kit
1. Clairol Professional Flare Me Permanent Hair Color – Top Pick
You can also find this product on Walmart.
If you’re looking for a line of hair colors that will let you express your creativity and personality, then look no further than Clairol Professional’s Flare Me.
This line includes seven beautiful shades, all of which are perfect for dark hair without the need for pre-lightening.
The colors in this hair dye penetrate the shaft of each strand and won’t fade easily.
In addition, the Omega gloss conditioners will leave your hair feeling smooth and soft.
Pros:
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors
- No pre-lightening needed
- Leaves hair feeling smooth and soft
Cons:
- Not available in as many shades as some other brands
- Need to buy a developer
2. Clairol Professional Texture and Tones Permanent Hair Color
You can also find this product on Walmart.
Clairol Texture and Tones Permanent Hair Color is a high-end kit that adds shine and color to hair.
It’s ammonia-free, texture-loving, and moisture-rich, with jojoba and five botanical extracts to soften the hair.
This hair color is suitable for natural or relaxed tresses.
You may select from a variety of tones, including red, brunette, and blonde, to achieve the ideal appearance with up to 100 percent gray coverage.
Pros:
- Gentle enough
- Ammonia free
- Texture-loving and moisture-rich
- Wide range of shades
- 100% gray coverage
Cons:
- May not be suitable for all hair types
- Color may fade quickly
3. AGEbeautiful Permanent Liqui-Creme Hair Color Dye
You can also find this product on Sally.
AGEbeautiful Hair Color is the first color that addresses all five signs of aging hair. The melanin, keratin peptide, silk protein and patented conditioning technology help to nourish your strands.
It provides 100% coverage of gray hair for up to 8 weeks and comes in a variety of shades so you can find your perfect match.
AGEbeautiful also helps your hair grow stronger and thicker, resulting in fuller, thicker, healthier-looking locks.
However, AGEbeautiful is more expensive than many other hair color solutions available on the market.
Pros:
- Fights all five signs of aging hair
- 100% gray coverage
- Fortifies hair
- Comes in a variety of shades
- Long lasting color results.
Cons:
- Can potentially leave your hair looking darker than you intended
- Expensive
4. Wella Color Charm Permanent Gel Hair Color
You can also find this product on Sally, Walmart.
With fantastic gray coverage, Wella Color Charm Permanent Gel Haircolor lasts longer and fades less.
It’s available in a variety of hues to suit your preferences and is adaptable for both bowl and brush or bottle application.
The Gelfuse Technology saturates, penetrates and fuses the hair for vibrant, fade-resistant results.
Plus, it’s conditioning formula is gentle on your hair–an ideal quality for color-treated hair. The dye itself isn’t abrasive but the concentration might be too strong for some people.
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Fade-resistant
- Excellent gray coverage
- Versatile and easy to use
- Predictable results
Cons:
- Too strong
- Pricey
- Can be messy
5. Celeb Luxury Colorwash – Best Semi Permanent Red Hair Dye For Dark Hair
You can also find this product on Walmart.
Celeb Luxury Colorwash not only gently cleanses your hair but also deposits color for a vibrant and long-lasting result.
The included Bondfix Bond Rebuilder helps to rebuild and strengthen your hair’s bonds, so you’re left with healthy, resilient hair.
This set is perfect for keeping your hair looking its best, whether you are aiming for a bright new look or just want to keep your current color looking fresh.
Colorwash is available in a wide range of colors, so you can find the perfect shade for you. However, this product may dry your hair.
Pros:
- Deposits color gently and evenly
- Available in many colors
- Contains Bondfix to rebuild bonds
- Can save money compared to going to a salon
Cons:
- Can be drying to hair
- Some colors may not be very vibrant
6. L’Oreal Excellence HiColor Red
You can also find this product on Sally, Walmart.
L’Oreal Excellence HiColor is the answer to your search for red hair or dazzling red highlights without brassiness.
This innovative formula lifts your hair 3-4 levels, no pre-lightening required, for highly visible and intense red highlights that can even be achieved on darker hair.
The rich, no-drip creme is easy to control for creative techniques, and the quick processing time of only thirty minutes means you’ll achieve your perfect look quickly.
Plus, the true-to-shade color resists fading for long lasting results. It comes in a small assortment of colors which may not be ideal for everyone!
Pros:
- Intense
- No pre-lightening required
- Quick processing time
- True-to-shade color
Cons:
- Can be drying to the hair
- Not a wide range of colors
7. ARCTIC FOX Vegan and Cruelty-Free Semi-Permanent Hair Color Dye – Bright Red Hair Dye For Dark Hair
You can also find this product on Ulta, Sally.
If you want a vegan and cruelty-free hair dye that provides beautiful colors, then Arctic Fox is the way to go!
This semi-permanent color uses all-natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals. Not only does it condition your hair, but it also brings back its vibrancy.
Though this hair color is scented sweet, has no peroxide, ammonia, ethyl alcohol or PPD, it can still be difficult to predict the final outcome on unbleached hair.
Another unfortunate result of using this dye is that it may fade quickly after each wash.
Pros:
- Vegan and Cruelty-Free
- Gentle for Frequent Use
- Conditions Hair as it Colors
- Smears Less
- Sweet Scented
- No Peroxide, Ammonia, Ethyl Alcohol, or PPD
Cons:
- Fades quickly
- Pricey
- Messy
8. L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color
You can also find this product on Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart.
Feria’s revolutionary Power Shimmer Conditioner hydrates and nourishes hair. This dye provides brilliant results.
This product includes bright hues ranging from our brightest blondes to darkest blacks, so you can choose the right color for you.
The fade-proof formula and multi-dimensional gleaming colors leave your hair radiant and intriguing! However, it might be harmful to hair if used on a regular basis.
Pros:
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Brilliant, shimmering results
- Fade-resistant formula
Cons:
- Can be damaging to hair
- May not cover roots well
- Pricey
9. Splat Midnight No Bleach Kit
You can also find this product on Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart.
The semi-permanent hair color Splat Midnight is available in a range of hues, including brilliant and attention-getting colors such as Midnight Violet and Midnight Rosetta.
Because this color does not require bleaching, it’s perfect for individuals who want to try something new but don’t want to go through the trouble of bleaching their hair first.
The deep conditioning treatment leaves hair moisturized, glossy, and healthy appearing. Quinoa extracts aid in the strengthening and protection of hair while also keeping color in place.
This product is vegan and cruelty free, as well as gluten-free. In my opinion, however, the color doesn’t show up well on very dark hair and stains shower tiles and worktops.
Pros:
- Comes in a variety of shades
- Doesn’t require bleach
- Deep conditioning formula
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Gluten free
Cons:
- May doesn’t work well on very dark hair
- It doesn’t last very long
- Messy and stained
How To Choose The Best Red Hair Dye For Dark Hair
When it comes to choosing the best red hair dye, there are a few things you need to take into account.
Color
If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your hair, red is a great option. There are many shades of red to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your complexion and hair type.
To choose the right shade of red for your hair, you’ll need to consider your skin tone and hair color.
If you have fair skin, go with a light or bright red. If you have medium skin, try a medium or dark red. And if you have dark skin, opt for a deep red.
To determine your skin tone, look at the veins on the inside of your wrist. If they appear green, you have cool undertones.
If they appear blue, you have warm undertones. If they’re somewhere in between, you have neutral undertones.
To determine your hair color, look at the shades of black and brown in your hair. If you have mostly black hair, go with a darker red.
If you have mostly brown hair, go with a lighter red.
Once you’ve considered your skin tone and hair color, you can start shopping for the perfect shade of red hair color. If you’re still not sure which one to choose, ask your stylist for guidance.
Condition
If your hair is in good condition, you can pretty much use any type of hair color. However, if your hair is damaged, you’ll need to be more careful about the products you use.
If your hair is dry and brittle, opt for a semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair color. These types of hair color don’t penetrate the hair shaft as deeply, so they won’t further damage your hair.
Permanent hair color is the most damaging option, but it will give you the longest-lasting results.
If you decide to go with permanent color, make sure to use a deep conditioner regularly to help repair your hair.
Ingredients
When choosing a hair color, you’ll also want to take a look at the ingredients. Ammonia and peroxide are two of the most common ingredients in hair color, but they can be very drying and damaging to your hair.
If your hair is already dry or damaged, you’ll want to avoid products that contain these ingredients.
There are many ammonia- and peroxide-free hair colors on the market, so you should have no problem finding one that works for you.
Now that you know how to choose the best red hair dye, you’re ready to start shopping!
Just remember to take your skin tone, hair color, and hair condition into account to find the perfect shade for you.
Red Hair Color Ideas for You
Are you considering dyeing your hair red? If so, then you’ll want to check out these red hair color ideas!
From bright and bold crimson to deep and sultry burgundy, there’s a shade of red out there for everyone.
And if you’re not sure if you’re ready to take the plunge, then consider using a temporary or semi-permanent dye first.
That way, you can experiment with different shades until you find the perfect one for you.
So what are you waiting for? Scroll down and take a look at these gorgeous red hair color ideas!
Cranberry Red
Auburn Red
Scarlet Red
How to Apply Red Hair Dye For Dark Brown Hair
Hair dye is a great way to change your appearance, but it can be tricky to apply if you’ve never done it before. Follow these steps to make sure you get even, consistent coverage.
To dye your hair red, you will need:
- A bottle of red hair dye
- A bowl
- A brush or comb
- A towel
- Start with clean, dry hair. If your hair is oily, shampoo it first and then let it air dry or blow dry it before you start applying the dye.
- Put on gloves to protect your hands from the dye.
- Open the hair dye and mix it according to the instructions on the package.
- Apply a small amount of Vaseline or petroleum jelly around your hairline and on your ears to prevent the dye from staining your skin.
- Using a brush or your fingers, apply the hair dye to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
- If you’re using a box dye, follow the instructions on the package for how long to leave the dye in your hair. Generally, it’s best to err on the side of leaving it in for less time rather than more.
- Rinse the dye out of your hair with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
- Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
Now that you know how to apply hair dye, you can experiment with different colors and styles to find the look that’s right for you!
How to Take Care of Dyed Hair
While you may love your new hair color, it doesn’t come without some special care. Here are a few tips to keep your dyed hair looking fabulous:
- Avoid hot water. This can strip away the color from your hair, so make sure to use lukewarm water when shampooing and conditioning.
- Be careful with styling tools. Heat can also fade hair color, so limit your use of blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons.
- Use color-safe products. When shopping for shampoo and conditioner, look for products that are labeled “color-safe” or “for colored hair.” These will help to extend the life of your hair color.
- Get regular trims. Getting your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks will help to keep it healthy and looking its best.
- Touch up your color as needed. Depending on how often you wash your hair, you may need to touch up your color every 4-6 weeks. This will help to keep your hair looking fresh and vibrant.
By following these tips, you can keep your dyed hair looking gorgeous for weeks to come!
Picking Red Hair Dye for Brunettes – FAQ
Can you dye your hair red if you have dark hair?
When you bleach red hair, the warmth of your natural color underneath is lost. The red may also change to orange, which are the tones you must maintain in order to have a beautiful, bright, natural-looking crimson.
That implies that dyeing your hair red without bleaching is doable; however, only if your strands are virgin.
How can I get my hair red without bleaching it?
If you want to get your hair red without bleaching it, you’ll need to start with virgin hair. This will give you the best chance of achieving a rich, vibrant color.
If your hair is already dyed or has been exposed to chemicals, it may be more difficult to achieve the desired result. You’ll also need to use a red hair dye specifically formulated for dark hair.
If you want to achieve a noticeable red color without having to bleach your hair, then permanent dye is the best option. This method uses hair dye and developer to lift out your natural hair pigments and deposit your new color.
What skin tone looks good with red hair?
There are a few skin tones that look good with red hair. If you have fair skin, then you can rock just about any shade of red.
If you have olive skin, then you’ll want to avoid orange-toned reds and go for shades with more blue or purple undertones.
And if you have dark skin, then you’ll want to stay away from reds that are too light, as they can wash you out. The best thing to do is experiment with different shades of red until you find one that compliments your skin tone.
So Is It Possible to Put Red Hair Dye on Black Hair? – Summary
Red hair dye is a great way to add color and life to your look. There are many shades of red to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your complexion and hair type.
Now that you know all about red hair dyes, it’s time to choose the perfect shade for you! We’ve provided a few ideas to get you started, but remember to experiment until you find the perfect color.
To choose the right shade of red for your hair, you’ll need to consider your skin tone and hair color. And don’t forget to take care of your dyed hair by using color-safe products and avoiding hot water.
By following these tips, you can keep your hair looking its best for weeks or even months at a time!
Overall, all of these hair dyes in our list are great options for those looking to change their hair color. They come in a variety of shades and offer brilliant results.
However, they may also be damaging to hair. So, if you’re thinking about dyeing your hair using one of these products, I recommend doing a strand test first to make sure the color is what you want.
And remember to use a good quality conditioner afterwards to help keep your hair healthy!
Also read:
- Best Semi Permanent Black Hair Dye
- Best Bright Red Hair Dye
- Best Ginger Hair Dye
- Best Rose Gold Hair Dye
- Best Light Brown Hair Dye
- Best Burgundy Hair Dye
- Best Ash Blonde Hair Dye
- Best Platinum Blonde Hair Dye
- Best Strawberry Blonde Hair Dye
References:
- Toxic Chemicals in Hair Dye and Safer Options – https://www.madesafe.org/toxic-chemicals-hair-dye-safer-options/
- The 21 Most Popular Red Hair Color Shades – https://www.matrixprofessional.com.au/blog/the-21-most-popular-red-hair-color-shades
Allyson Carter
Ally is a professional hairstylist with more than 6 years of experience, but hair has been her passion since early childhood. Here, at Hair Spies, she blogs about all things hairdressing, hair tools, and everyday hair care. Read more about Allyson here.
