25 Shades of Red Hair We Love for 2025

If you’re looking to switch up your hair color, now’s a great time to explore the many shades of red gaining traction across the beauty world. From bright copper to rich burgundy, red hair is having a moment—and for good reason. When chosen thoughtfully, a red hair color can help brighten your complexion and add a touch of flattering warmth to your look. 

With so many shades of red hair to choose from, narrowing down the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re breaking down our favorite red hair color ideas, along with tips for finding the best shade for your skin tone. Ahead, discover 25 ways to rock red hair, discover the best at-home red hair dyes for your transformation, and learn a bit about how to maintain your trendy new hue. 

25 of Our Favorite Red Hair Ideas

There are countless shades of red, which means there’s a red hair color to suit nearly anyone. Here’s some red hair inspiration to bookmark ahead of your next salon visit.

Understanding the different shades of red

• Light red hair: Light red hair colors can be a great option for natural blondes seeking a warmer hue. Shades in this category include copper, strawberry blonde, and light auburn.
• Medium red hair: Medium-toned reds are typically the most versatile of the red hair colors, as they can flatter both fairer and deeper complexions. Softer variations include auburn and cinnamon, while classic crimson is great for anyone after a more vibrant shade. 
• Dark red hair: If you have deep skin or prefer the dramatic effect of a dark hair color, consider a dark red shade like black cherry or burgundy.

1. Light auburn

Bring your hair color to life with a vibrant light auburn shade. This gingery red hue can work for a range of skin tones, but it’s especially flattering on those with cooler, fairer complexions. At the salon, ask for face-framing highlights in warm red tones to brighten your features. Or, DIY the look with the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Light Auburn.

2. Mahogany

If you want to spruce up your strands without going too bright, a brownish-red hue is a great way to do it. This deep red hair color features an equal mix of brunette and dark red tones, resulting in a versatile and flattering hue that complements both fair and deep complexions. To get the look, try the L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Crème Permanent Triple Care Hair Color in Dark Mahogany Red.

3. Raspberry hair 

Inspired by the fruit that’s equal parts tart and sweet, this dark red hair color features a blend of deep red, soft pink, and violet tones woven throughout. Anyone can rock the moody hue, but it looks especially captivating on medium to deep skin. Because it features a blend of different shades of red, we suggest leaving this unique hue in the hands of a pro.

4. Burgundy

Red is typically thought of as a warm color, but that isn’t always the case. Made shades of red actually lean cool. Burgundy is one such example—this rich, red hue features subtle violet undertones, lending it a distinctly cool finish. If you’re up for an at-home transformation, pick up a deep red hair dye, such as the L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Burgundy Blush.

5. Soft brick red 

This versatile shade features a mix of vibrant red and brown tones, making it an ideal hue for those with cool undertones seeking a more subtle red color to try. Ask your stylist to add some copper highlights to give it a fresh and summery feel, or lowlights for a moodier vibe. Or, get a similar look at home with a dark reddish-brown hair dye, like the L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Universal Nudes Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color in Natural Dark Red. 

6. Red velvet

This dimensional shade blends red, violet, burgundy, and maroon for a rich, velvety finish. It suits a variety of undertones: Go heavier on the violet if you have cooler skin, or opt for a warmer crimson variation to complement skin with golden undertones. If you’re up for DIYing it, the L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Red Velvet is perfect for the job.

7. Strawberry blonde

This warm, reddish-blonde shade is perfect for those who want to dip into red without going too bold. It’s especially flattering on fair to medium skin and ideal for summer, since the blonde tones create a natural sun-kissed effect. Give it a try with the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Light Reddish Blonde—just keep in mind that you may need to pre-lighten your hair, depending on your current color.

8. Black cherry 

Inspired by one of our favorite cola flavors, black cherry hair features cool, moody tones for a refreshing take on dark red hair color that flatters just about every skin tone. The super-dark, reddish-black hue blends two rich colors into one eye-catching shade of vampy red hair. Get a similar look at home using the L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Chocolate Cherry.

9. Bright copper

Bright copper is a warm and bright shade of red reminiscent of the hue of a shiny new penny. The color features a mix of blonde, golden copper hues, and auburn highlights to create a beautiful, vibrant mane that stuns on all skin tones and undertones. The L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Universal Nudes Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color in Natural Copper is our top pick for recreating this pretty shade. 

10. Hot chili

Inspired by the spice, this warm red-orange hue is rich and fiery—perfect for medium and olive skin tones. Try L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Lightest Auburn to capture the effect. 

11. Scarlet

If you’re looking for something bold, jazz up your look with a scarlet red hair color. This vibrant hue is on the more saturated end of the red spectrum, with a pure, crimson tone and just a hint of brown for depth. Try it out yourself using the L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Cherry Crush. 

12. Warm cinnamon

A mid-toned mix of red, golden blonde, and light brown tones makes for a versatile hue that easily flatters all skin tones. Reach for the L’Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Créme Permanent Triple Protection Hair Color in Light Auburn to try out this spicy red hair color at home. 

13. Rose gold

Rose gold hue is a dimensional light red hair color with an equal mix of blonde, pink, and coppery golden tones. It’s super pretty on those with fair skin and makes for a flattering way to ease into red hair without committing to a vivid crimson color. If you want to try it out for yourself, use the L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Strawberry Blonde. 

14. Peachy red 

This tonal reddish-orange hair color features a seamless blend of peach, apricot, and strawberry tones, creating a dimensional hue with tons of vibrance. To get the perfect mix of reddish and orange tones, we recommend taking this red hair color inspiration and booking an appointment at the salon.

15. Medium auburn

Medium auburn features a balanced blend of red and brown for a rich, dimensional shade. It complements most skin tones and adds depth without overpowering your look. To achieve the look without a salon visit, pick up a box of L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Medium Auburn Brown.

16. Dark auburn

Another way to embrace red without completely abandoning your brunette roots is by embracing a dark auburn hue. The autumnal red and chocolatey brown combo blends flawlessly for a hair shade that suits all skin tones and eye colors. Use the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Dark Auburn to get the look for yourself.

17. Russet

Russet is another shade of red hair that we love for natural brunettes. The subtle hue can be worn on its own or accented with golden blonde highlights for a bit of brightness. If an all-over color is what you’re craving, DIY it with the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Dark Mahogany Brown.

18. Tawny red

Tawny red hair features a mix of brown, dark orange, and red tones. It’s great for those with neutral undertones because the ribbons of warm color can help to illuminate and add warmth to the skin. If you get the color at the salon, ask your stylist to add some light copper babylights around your face for an added brightening effect.

19. Violet red

Violet red features a deep maroon base with plummy undertones woven throughout. The cooler-leaning red is perfect for those with cool skin tones (though those with neutral skin can rock the hue with ease, too). To achieve the best results, we recommend visiting a colorist who can tailor the color to complement your skin tone.

20. Deep crimson

Dark crimson hair boasts a sultry blend of rich red and black tones. The combination of bright red and deep black gives the striking hue a distinctly vampy vibe. If you’re game for trying the vivid shade for yourself, pick up a box of the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Intense Dark Red (bonus—you don’t have to pre-lighten your strands for the rich red hue to show up, even if your base is dark).

21. Pink and red hair 

A pink money piece set against a vibrant red base makes for an ultra-trendy, two-tone look. Vibrant, head-turning, and eye-catching, this cool red hair color is unique, and it’s even achievable at home, though you’ll need to be prepared to bleach your hair to achieve the bright face-framing highlight. 

22. Copper brown 

If a vibrant copper hair color seems like too much of a commitment, try copper brown instead. This subtle hue fuses coppery tones into a classic light brown base, creating a gorgeous shade of reddish-brown that’s surprisingly wearable. See for yourself with the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying Shine Permanent Hair Color in Medium Copper Brown.

23. Fruit punch

Also known as fire engine red, this crimson hue is electric, bright, and sure to command attention. Though the intense hue may not be for everyone, it’s a great option if you want to make a statement with your hair (though be warned: you will need to bleach your mane to achieve this level of vibrancy). 

24. Platinum strawberry 

This cool-toned blonde-red hybrid combines pale platinum with hints of pink, red, and orange. It’s especially flattering on skin with cool undertones. To get the hue just right, we recommend scheduling an appointment with an experienced colorist (especially if you’re starting with a darker base color). 

25. Bright copper

Bright copper falls on the orange end of the red spectrum, with a vivid, fiery tone that beautifully flatters those with warm undertones. Try the L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Copper Crave to get the vibrant hue for yourself. 

How To Choose a Red Hair Color That Complements Your Skin Tone

When choosing a red hair color (or any new shade), it’s a good idea to take your skin tone into account. While there are no strict rules, certain shades tend to complement specific skin tones more naturally. Ahead, we’re sharing a brief look at some of our favorite shades of red hair for fair, medium, and deep skin.

Best shades of red for fair skin

Strawberry blonde, copper, and light auburn are among our favorite red hair colors for fair skin. These shades tend to be softer and subtler than more vivid shades of red and can help bring warmth and brightness to your complexion without overpowering it. 

Best shades of red for medium skin

Cinnamon red, mahogany, and cherry red pair beautifully with medium skin tones by adding contrast and richness. Cinnamon red’s mix of golden, copper, and light brown tones brings out warmth in the skin, while cooler reds, such as mahogany, complement neutral or olive undertones well. Medium skin also pairs well with vivid cherry red, which can sometimes overpower fairer and deeper complexions.

Best shades of red for deep skin

Burgundy, plum, and raspberry are standout shades for deep skin tones, thanks to their richness and depth. Opt for a darker take on one of these shades for a more natural look, or embrace your playful side by opting for a vivid raspberry or plummy red mane. 

How To Care for Dyed Red Hair

After figuring out which red hair color is right for you, you’ll need to switch out your everyday hair care products for ones specifically formulated for color-treated hair. This can help prevent fading and keep your color looking fresh for longer. Ahead, we’re sharing four tips to keep in mind once you embrace your new hue. 

1. Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner

Harsh shampoos and conditioners can strip your color, so when you lather up, it’s a good idea to opt for products designed specifically for color-treated hair. We love the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Protecting Shampoo and Conditioner. The former gently cleanses the strands, while the latter hydrates. Use the duo daily (or whenever you lather up) to help keep your strands healthy-looking and lock in color vibrancy for up to eight weeks.

2. Wash your hair with lukewarm water

Hot water can dry out your hair and may cause your color to fade more quickly than it would otherwise. To help prevent premature fading, wash your strands with lukewarm water instead. While it’s not as relaxing as a long, steamy shower, the cooler temperature can help to keep your color looking vibrant for longer.

3. Keep heat styling to a minimum

One of the best things you can do for your hair, especially if you have color-treated hair, is to limit heat styling. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your style—instead, try a heatless hairstyle, such as bubble braids. Those with curly or wavy hair can also consider using a curl-enhancing leave-in conditioner, such as the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Leave-in Conditioner, to bring out their natural curl pattern before letting their hair air dry. 

It’s okay to use hot tools in moderation, but always remember to prime your strands with a heat protectant, such as the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Bond Repair Hair Oil-in-Serum. The lightweight formula helps repair damaged, color-treated hair, tames frizz, boosts shine, and shields hair against temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Use a root cover-up

If you opt for a shade of red that noticeably contrasts with your natural color, your roots will be noticeable as your natural hair grows in. Use the L’Oréal Paris Magic Root Cover Up in Vibrant Red to touch up your color in between hair dye sessions for a quick and easy fix. Just spritz it on your roots and comb it through the length of your hair for a seamless blend that lasts until your next shampoo.

Next Up: All About Milk Tea Hair Color, This Season’s Coolest Color Trend

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris