When it comes to hair colors, red shades undoubtedly steal the spotlight. Between rich burgundy hues, muted coppers, and fire-inspired colors, there are an endless amount of shades that inspire us for fall.
If the chocolate cherry and maroon hair color trends haven’t inspired you to go red yet, allow us to introduce you to fall’s newest trend: red velvet hair. Looking to ditch your dark brown hair and give red a chance? This trend is just as sweet as it sounds.
Shop The Best Products For Red Velvet Hair
What is red velvet hair?
If you’re looking to switch it up from hair colors inspired by beverages, why not try one that resembles your favorite sweet treat? Red velvet hair is a vibrant, cool-toned red hue inspired by the popular dessert of the same name. If you’re starting out with a super dark base, your colorist will likely need to bleach your entire mane before painting on the red velvet color. Bleach will always cause some damage, but your colorist can help to improve the look and feel of your strands before you leave the salon.
How much maintenance does red velvet hair require?
As much as we love red hair colors, maintaining them can be a bit tricky. If this is your first time going red, don’t panic! We have a few tips for keeping your red velvet hair looking its absolute best between salon appointments.
With any color change, you can expect to switch up your product routine a bit. First, swap your regular shampoo and conditioner for a system that’s specifically formulated for color-treated hair. We recommend Kérastase Bain Chromatique Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair and Fondant Chromatique Conditioner for color-treated and highlighted hair.
Since achieving red velvet hair will likely require your colorist to use bleach to lighten your hair, you might notice your strands feel a little more parched than usual. Pick up a hair mask like Kérastase Masque Chromatique Hair Mask. The multi-protecting mask deeply nourishes hair to protect and prolong color vibrancy for healthy hair color.
It’s no secret that heat styling can take a toll on the vibrancy of your hair color. Apply a few spritzes of a heat protectant like Biolage Thermal Active Heat Protectant Spray before you reach for your flat iron.
Even with the best possible product routine, red velvet hair will require frequent touch-ups. Expect to hit the salon every few weeks to maintain the hue. If you’re not sure how often, follow your stylists advice!
What’s the best way to wear red velvet hair?
Red velvet hair is fall’s hottest red shade for a reason—it looks stunning no matter how you wear it. Whether your strands are long, short, or somewhere in between, red velvet hair is sure to look stunning on you.
Looking for red velvet hair inspiration to bring to the salon? Keep scrolling for seven of the best ways to wear the shade.
The Best Red Velvet Hair Ideas To Try Now
All Over Color
Slay red velvet hair in the most dramatic way possible by opting for a full head of the delectable shade.
Red Velvet Highlights
Looking to try red velvet hair without committing to all over color? You can’t go wrong with highlights. Ask your colorist for a full head of highlights to add brightness and dimension to any dark base color.
Wine To Red Velvet Ombre
If you can’t decide between two red hair color trends, don’t! This wine to red velvet ombre is the ultimate fall look.
Smoked Out Roots
Looking to experiment with a bold hair color without sacrificing all of your dark brown hair? You can have your red velvet cake and eat it too with smoked out roots. Not to mention: This low-maintenance technique can buy you some time between touch-up appointments.
Red Velvet Roots
Once you get a glimpse of red velvet roots with bubblegum pink hair, you’ll be dying to try this daring color combination.
Red Velvet Pixie
Who says long-haired girls get to have all the fun? If you desire a final look with a bit more edge, pair your red velvet hue with a pixie cut.
Sleek And Shiny
A shade like red velvet looks best when it’s shiny and reflective. Pick up a hair oil like Redken Diamond Oil Glow Dry Blow Dry Shine Oil to achieve instant hair shine, smoothness, and hair manageability.
Interested in trying red velvet hair for yourself? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.