We’ve seen more red hair color trends recently then we can count (cherry cola being one of our all-time favorites). But, as we roll into autumn, we’ve been obsessing over another classic reddish-brown shade: mahogany. This warm hue is stunning on all skin tones and provides an opportunity for brunettes to infuse some red into their natural stands without committing to a complete color change.
If you’re thinking about your next big fall hair color change keep reading for all the inspo you need to find the shade that’s right for you.. Ahead, we’ll break down what mahogany hair color is and how to care for it. We’re also sharing seven inspiration photos to bring to the salon.
What does mahogany hair look like?
Mahogany hair color resembles the reddish-brown wood of the same name. This rich, dimensional hue can be subtle (think deep red accents throughout a dark brown base color) or vibrant, with lively red and purple highlights.
If you opt for a brighter take on the shade, your colorist may need to use bleach to lighten your current hair color before applying your mahogany hue. It’s important to note that bleach will always cause some damage, but your colorist should work to improve the look and feel of your strands before you leave the salon.
Is mahogany hair color warm or cool?
Mahogany hues can range from cool plum tones to warmer, chocolatey shades. For a natural-looking finish, however, it’s best to pick a shade suited for your unique skin tone. Those with fair complexions should try a cool-toned variation of mahogany while warmer reds work best for tan or dark skin tones.
Color Last Moisturizing Conditioner
A moisturizing conditioner for colored hair.
Deep Clean Dry Shampoo
A high-performance dry shampoo that absorbs excess oil on up to day 4 hair.
Hydrate Superfood Treatment Mask
A nourishing hair mask that hydrates, softens, and protects the vibrancy of color-treated hair.
How do you maintain mahogany hair color?
Keeping up with regular touch-ups and revamping your at-home haircare routine is the key to keeping your mahogany hue fresh and vibrant. Start by replacing your regular shampoo and conditioner with a system formulated for color-treated hair, like Biolage Colorlast Shampoo and Conditioner. These formulas gently cleanse and condition to keep the vibrancy, tone, and shine of color-treated hair in tip-top shape. We also suggest picking up a dry shampoo like Redken Deep Clean Dry Shampoo since over-washing can strip the vibrancy from your hue. Use dry shampoo on second-day hair or whenever your mane needs a refresh.
Give your freshly-colored strands a bit of TLC by adding a weekly hair mask like Pureology Hydrate Superfood Treatment Mask to your routine. This formula is made with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and avocado oil to deeply condition dry, color-treated hair, leaving it detangled, soft, and shiny.
Give your freshly-colored strands a bit of TLC by adding a weekly hair mask like Pureology Hydrate Superfood Treatment Mask to your routine. This formula is made with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and avocado oil to deeply condition dry, color-treated hair, leaving it detangled, soft, and shiny.
The Best Mahogany Hair Ideas To Try Now
Good hair day by @suetyrrellstylist.
Mahogany With Caramel Highlights
We consider caramel highlights the nude lipstick of hair color because they flatter everyone. Ask your colorist to paint caramel streaks throughout your mahogany base for added dimension and brightness.
Good hair day by @makeupbyfrances.
Chocolate Mahogany
This chocolatey mahogany leans more brunette than red, making it ideal for anyone who isn’t ready to take the plunge into full-on red hair.
Good hair day by @kittyyykaathair.
Cool-Toned
Keep it cool all autumn long with this cool-toned mahogany. The violet-red undertones in this shade pair best with fair skin.
Good hair day by @danalynnhair.
Mahogany Balayage
If you want a low-maintenance look, try a mahogany balayage. Your colorist will paint the reddish hue from the mid-lengths to the ends of your mane, leaving your roots natural (and therefore, eliminating the need for monthly touch-ups).
Good hair day by @anhcotran.
Subtle Streaks
Ask your colorist to apply mahogany highlights throughout a dark brown base for a softer take on the hue.
Good hair day by @krazy4hair.
Vibrant Mahogany
If you’re looking to try the hue at its most dramatic, you’ll love this brighter, vivid take on mahogany. Use a hair treatment like Matrix Total Results Keep Me Vivid Color Lamination Spray to prolong the vibrancy and shine of fast-fading hair color between appointments.
Good hair day by @dbellx22.
Mahogany With Orange Highlights
We’re all about getting creative with our manes, which is why we love these orange face-framing highlights against a mahogany base.
Interested in trying mahogany hair color for yourself? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Color Last Moisturizing Conditioner
A moisturizing conditioner for colored hair.
Deep Clean Dry Shampoo
A high-performance dry shampoo that absorbs excess oil on up to day 4 hair.
Hydrate Superfood Treatment Mask
A nourishing hair mask that hydrates, softens, and protects the vibrancy of color-treated hair.
Total Results Keep Me Vivid Color Lamination Vibrancy Spray
A hair-color-sealing spray that promotes vibrancy.
