Most things in life require a little added spice. When you’re cooking dinner, you might add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavor in your dish. Cookies might benefit from added allspice and nutmeg. We apply the same idea when it comes to innovative hair color—which is why a shade like cinnamon is trending right now!
For everything you need to know about cinnamon hair color—including who should wear it and what the maintenance is like—we spoke with Redken artist Laura Carmichael. Read on to find out how to make this brunette and red hybrid your next fall hair color.
Good hair day by @hairbycasondra.
What color is cinnamon hair color?
Cinnamon hair color is inspired by the sweet spice of the same name. This warm-toned, reddish-brown hue is deep, dimensional, and is customizable to flatter any skin tone. Carmichael attributes the popularity of cinnamon hair to the trendiness of colors from decades long past.
“We are seeing trends from previous decades return like no other—specifically trends from the ’70s and ‘90s—but with more natural shades added in,” Carmichael says. “‘Cool’ hair without any warmth was popular for so long, so it’s exciting to see something so youthful and rich make a return,” the hair pro says.
Starting with a dark to light brown base, your colorist will work to incorporate hints of orange-red all over your mane. Instead of overwhelming your complexion by suddenly going auburn, you’ll feel like a brunette with a kick of spice.
How do you maintain cinnamon hair color?
If you’re a color addict, it’s essential to recognize that all those salon appointments can take a toll on the condition of your hair over time. Carmichael recommends supporting your hair color (and health) with a line like Redken’s Color Extend Magnetics. The system, which consists of a shampoo, conditioner, and hair mask, gently cleanses and strengthens color-treated hair.
"Redken Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner is my go-to saving grace for color protection, followed by Redken One United, which has amazing protection and nourishing benefits,” the stylist says. “You invest a lot in your color, so it’s important to use at-home care products that’ll protect your investment and keep it looking fresh for as long as possible.”
Your mane might also need an extra bit of TLC after a color appointment, which is why we recommend completing the system with a weekly hair mask like Redken Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask.
If you’re ready to try cinnamon hair color for yourself, keep scrolling for five of our favorite ways to try the shade.
The Best Cinnamon Hair Color Ideas To Try
Cinnamon Brown
Stay true to your brunette roots while adding a bit of cinnamon spice into the mix with cinnamon brown hair color. This hue is as low-maintenance as cinnamon hair gets for natural brunettes looking to make a change.
Good hair day by @jessicapowerspaints.
Black To Cinnamon Ombre
You’ll be surprised how well cinnamon pairs with very dark hair (as evidenced by this black to cinnamon ombre).
Good hair day by @hairbybritny.
Cinnamon Highlights
Cinnamon hair color adds dimension to any base color, which makes it the perfect candidate for highlights. We love the way cinnamon highlights bring brightness, depth, dimension to this chocolate brown base.
Good hair day by @sydneydelanaaa.
Cinnamon To Copper Balayage
Get a taste of two fall hair color trends at once with this cinnamon and copper balayage. Your colorist will begin with a cinnamon base color before hand-painting a copper hue to your mid-lengths and ends.
Good hair day by @adina_pignatare.
Pumpkin Spice And Cinnamon
The autumn-obsessed will love this pumpkin spice and cinnamon combination. This hue leans more ginger, so be prepared to visit your colorist every four weeks to keep your color in tip-top shape.
Interested in trying cinnamon hair color for yourself? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.