Dark red hair covers the deep end of the red family: burgundy, wine, cherry, mahogany and deep crimson. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Dark red hair at a glance
- Type: Red
- Tone: Cool (burgundy, cherry) or warm (deep auburn)
- Lightening needed: Often not on brown hair. Black hair may need a small lift for the red to show.
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Touch-ups: 4 to 6 weeks
What makes it different
These shades are richer and more dramatic than copper or ginger, and they show well on dark hair without heavy bleaching.
Who it suits
A wide range of skin tones. Blue-based reds like burgundy flatter cool undertones; brown-based reds like mahogany flatter warm ones.
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 which dark red: burgundy, cherry, wine or mahogany.
- Say how bright in the light.
- Ask about fading.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
Wash with cool water, use color-safe shampoo and a red color-depositing conditioner.
Shades and variations
- Burgundy: dark red with a purple tint.
- Cherry red: brighter, a true cool red.
- Cherry cola: red-brown with violet.
- Wine red: deep and slightly purple.
- Mahogany: red-brown with a hint of violet.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see dark red hair on your own hair before you book.
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FAQ
What is dark red hair?
Dark red hair covers the deep end of the red family: burgundy, wine, cherry, mahogany and deep crimson.
Who suits dark red hair?
A wide range of skin tones. Blue-based reds like burgundy flatter cool undertones; brown-based reds like mahogany flatter warm ones.
Do you need bleach for dark red hair?
Often not on brown hair. Black hair may need a small lift for the red to show.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 4 to 6 weeks.
