Auburn is a reddish-brown hair color. It ranges from light auburn, which leans copper, to dark auburn, which leans brown and burgundy. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Auburn hair at a glance
- Type: Red / brown
- Tone: Warm
- Lightening needed: Usually not for brown hair; black hair may need a little lift for the red to show.
- Maintenance: Medium
- Touch-ups: 4 to 6 weeks
What makes it different
It's the most natural-looking red, because the brown in it softens the brightness.
Auburn vs copper
Auburn is red mixed with brown, so it's deeper and more muted. Copper is brighter and more orange.
Who it suits
Fair to medium skin with warm or neutral undertones, and green, hazel and brown eyes. Dark auburn also flatters deeper skin tones.
Not sure whether you're warm or cool? See how to find your undertone and the best hair color for your skin tone, or get your full palette with the free color analysis.
What to ask your colorist
- Say light, medium or dark auburn.
- Say how red versus how brown.
- Ask for a gloss to keep the red vivid.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
Red pigment fades fastest of all. Wash less often, with cool water and color-safe shampoo, and use a red or copper color-depositing conditioner.
Shades and variations
- Light auburn: bright, with copper tones.
- Dark auburn: deep red-brown.
- Auburn brown: mostly brown with a red glow.
- Auburn balayage: red-brown pieces on dark hair.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see auburn hair on your own hair before you book.
Related hair colors
FAQ
What is auburn hair?
Auburn is a reddish-brown hair color.
Who suits auburn hair?
Fair to medium skin with warm or neutral undertones, and green, hazel and brown eyes. Dark auburn also flatters deeper skin tones.
Do you need bleach for auburn hair?
Usually not for brown hair; black hair may need a little lift for the red to show.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 4 to 6 weeks.
