Ginger is a natural-looking orange-red hair color, the shade most people mean by a natural redhead. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your colorist for and how to keep it looking fresh.
Ginger hair at a glance
- Type: Red
- Tone: Warm
- Lightening needed: Yes, for brown or black hair. Dark blondes can often dye straight over.
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Touch-ups: 4 to 6 weeks
What makes it different
It's lighter and more orange than auburn, and softer than bright copper.
Who it suits
Fair skin with warm or neutral undertones, and freckles. It brightens green and blue eyes.
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
- Ask for a natural ginger, not a vivid red.
- Say light or deep.
- Ask how it will fade and how to refresh it.
- Bring photos taken in daylight, and say what you don't want as well as what you do.
How to maintain it
Use cool water, color-safe shampoo and a copper color-depositing conditioner weekly.
Shades and variations
- Light ginger: close to strawberry blonde.
- Deep ginger: close to copper.
- Ginger highlights: on light brown or blonde hair.
Try it before you dye
Color is hard to undo. Upload a selfie to the AI hair color changer and see ginger hair on your own hair before you book.
Related hair colors
FAQ
What is ginger hair?
Ginger is a natural-looking orange-red hair color, the shade most people mean by a natural redhead.
Who suits ginger hair?
Fair skin with warm or neutral undertones, and freckles. It brightens green and blue eyes.
Do you need bleach for ginger hair?
Yes, for brown or black hair. Dark blondes can often dye straight over.
How often does it need touching up?
About every 4 to 6 weeks.
