As much as we love the blondes and brunettes out there, we’ve always had a (not so) secret desire to become a redhead. From muted auburn to the fiery copper tones we see all over Instagram, we’re totally hooked on red. If you’re not ready to trade-in your current hair color for full-on red, however, there’s another option to consider: red highlights.
Red highlights let you test the waters of going red with half the commitment of an all-over hue. Already seeing red? Before you book your appointment, keep scrolling for 14 of the hottest ways to try red highlights in 2020.
How do you maintain red highlights?
You may be wondering if red shades really fade faster than other hair colors, and the answer is yes. Red shades are notoriously difficult to maintain so if you opt for red highlights, you’ll need to take your at-home product routine up a notch.
First, swap your regular shampoo and conditioner for a system formulated for color-treated hair. We recommend Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo and Conditioner. This sulfate-free, non-stripping system treats color-treated hair from the root to the core to the tip and contains amino-ions to help seal in color.
In order to create your ideal red highlight color, your colorist may need to use bleach to lift any existing color from your strands. Bleach will always cause damage, but a weekly hair mask like Redken Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask can help to improve the look and feel of your strands.
The Best Red Highlights Ideas To Try Now
Burnt Sienna
We got the inside scoop that burnt sienna, aka ginger beer, is the red hue to look out for this year—so why not get started with a few highlights? No matter what base color you’re starting with, this fiery orange-red hue is completely customizable. Not to mention: It works for every skin tone.
Cinnamon
If you’re looking to lean into red without going overboard, cinnamon highlights can add a little spice to your look. While cinnamon highlights work on any base color, they’re particularly striking on dark brunettes.
Fire Engine Red
Fair warning: Don’t opt for fire engine red highlights if you don’t want eyes on you at all times. This show-stopping vibrant hue is perfect for the color daredevils out there. Against a very dark hair color, this hue really packs a punch.
Ginger
If you’re just entering the world of red hair, ginger is a great beginner shade. Ginger highlights add a soft yet fiery touch to any base color and skin tone.
Copper
Think of copper hair as ginger’s older, with a slightly more vibrant twist. This metallic, fiery hue is one of 2020’s hottest red shades (and looks particularly striking on fair skin tones with blue eyes).
Reddish Brown
Calling all brunettes—reddish-brown hair will be your newest obsession. From shades like deep auburn to muted chestnut, there are tons of ways to add a pop of red to your brunette hue that works for every skin tone.
Red And Orange
Here’s one for the brave and bold: red and orange highlights. This fiery color creation is truly one-of-a-kind and looks particularly stunning paired with blue eyes and pale skin.
Red And Purple
If you love the edginess of red highlights, don’t stop there! Ask your colorist to add a few streaks of purple throughout your hair for a look that really stands out.
Mulled Wine
Wine is one of our favorite things, so it only makes sense we’re also in love with it as a highlight color. If you’re thinking of giving vino-inspired highlights a try, all eyes are on mulled wine hair color for 2020.
Chocolate Cherry
Chocolate brown hair is gorgeous, and all, but chocolate cherry takes the OG rich brunette hue and brings it up a notch. If you’re a brunette itching for a lowkey way to try red, ask your colorist for chocolate cherry highlights.
Strawberry
Already working with a dark red base color? Ask your stylist for a few strawberry highlights to add brightness and dimension to your hue.
Dark Red
When it comes to subtle red highlights, dark red is one of our favorite options. Dark red highlights over a deep base color are office appropriate while still feeling fun.
Pumpkin Spice
We might be far off from fall weather and seasonal lattes but when it comes to pumpkin spice hair, we’re into it all year long. This stunning mix of amber and honey is perfect for spicing up any base color.
Red Velvet
Obsessed with red velvet cake? Us too, so it’s no surprise that red velvet hair color is one of our go-to shades. If you’re into vibrant, shiny reds, it’s time to indulge in this sweet shade.
Interested in trying red highlights? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair
A gentle cleansing shampoo to care for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair
A moisturizing conditioner for colored hair.
Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask for Color-Treated Hair
A mask for vibrant and long-lasting color protection.
