Red hair with highlights is a stunning way to enhance your natural color. I love how this style adds depth and dimension to fiery locks.
It's a versatile look that can be customized to suit different preferences and skin tones.
I've found that red hair with highlights can range from subtle copper tones to bold streaks of blonde or caramel. This technique works well on all shades of red hair, from strawberry blonde to deep auburn.
There are so many options to choose from when deciding on the perfect highlight color and placement for your red hair.
1) Copper Highlights
Copper highlights are a stunning choice for red hair. I love how they add warmth and dimension to natural or dyed red locks.
These highlights bring out rich, metallic tones that catch the light beautifully.
Copper highlights work well on various shades of red hair. They can brighten up darker reds or add depth to lighter ones.
I find they look especially gorgeous on auburn and strawberry blonde bases.
The best part about copper highlights is their versatility. You can go for subtle, thin streaks or bolder, chunkier pieces.
I recommend starting with a few face-framing highlights to see how you like the look.
Maintenance is key with copper highlights. I suggest using color-safe shampoos and conditioners to keep the shade vibrant.
Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will help maintain the coppery glow.
2) Blonde Babylights
Blonde babylights are a subtle way to add dimension to red hair. I love how they create a sun-kissed look without being too bold.
These fine, delicate highlights mimic the natural lightening effect of the sun.
To achieve blonde babylights, a stylist will use a fine-toothed comb to separate tiny sections of hair. They'll then apply bleach to these small strands.
The result is a soft, natural-looking blend of lighter tones throughout the red base.
Babylights work well for all shades of red hair. They can brighten up darker reds or add depth to lighter copper tones.
I find they're especially pretty when placed around the face to frame and flatter features.
Maintenance for blonde babylights is pretty low-key. The grow-out process tends to be gradual and natural-looking.
Touch-ups are typically needed every 3-4 months to keep the look fresh.
3) Auburn Lowlights
Auburn lowlights are a great way to add depth to red hair. I love how they create a rich, multidimensional look.
These darker reddish-brown streaks blend seamlessly with natural or dyed red hair.
Auburn lowlights work well on many shades of red. They complement copper, strawberry blonde, and deep cherry reds.
The result is a gorgeous, natural-looking color.
I find that auburn lowlights add warmth and dimension to red hair. They create subtle contrast without being too bold.
This technique can make hair look thicker and more voluminous.
For best results, I recommend going to a professional colorist. They can place the lowlights strategically to flatter your face shape.
The right application makes all the difference in achieving a beautiful, natural look.
4) Caramel Strands
Caramel strands are a beautiful way to add warmth and depth to red hair. I love how these golden-brown highlights create a sun-kissed effect that brightens up any shade of red.
For redheads with lighter copper tones, caramel pieces can blend seamlessly for a natural look. On darker auburn hair, they provide eye-catching contrast.
I recommend placing caramel highlights strategically around the face to brighten your complexion. A few strands woven throughout the length can also add dimension.
The best part about caramel highlights is how versatile they are. They complement both cool and warm-toned reds.
You can go subtle with just a few pieces or bold with chunky streaks.
To maintain caramel highlights, I suggest using color-safe products and limiting heat styling.
Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
5) Rose Gold Tones
Rose gold tones are a trendy choice for red hair with highlights. I love how this soft, metallic hue adds a touch of glamour to red locks.
It blends warm copper and cool pink tones for a unique look.
To achieve rose gold highlights, your stylist will likely use a combination of blonde and pink dyes. The result is a subtle, shimmery effect that catches the light beautifully.
This highlight color works well on various shades of red hair. It can brighten up darker reds or add depth to lighter copper tones.
Rose gold highlights are especially flattering on warm skin tones.
I find that rose gold highlights require some maintenance to keep them looking fresh. Regular touch-ups and using color-safe hair products can help preserve the color's vibrancy.
6) Honey Blonde Streaks
I love how honey blonde streaks add warmth and dimension to red hair. These golden highlights create a sun-kissed look that's perfect for any season.
They blend beautifully with copper and auburn shades.
Honey blonde streaks can be applied using various techniques. I find that balayage works well for a natural, low-maintenance result. Foil highlights are great for a more precise, brighter effect.
The key is to choose a honey blonde shade that complements your base red color. For darker reds, I suggest a richer, more caramel-toned blonde. Lighter reds pair nicely with paler, buttery honey hues.
These streaks can be as subtle or bold as you like. I think thin, delicate strands scattered throughout create a lovely, natural look.
Chunkier pieces make a more dramatic statement.
7) Platinum Accents
Platinum highlights can create a stunning contrast with red hair. I've seen this combination turn heads and make a bold statement.
It's a daring choice that can really make red hair pop.
The icy platinum tones add a cool edge to warm red shades. This mix works well on various red hair colors, from auburn to strawberry blonde.
The light, almost white streaks provide dimension and movement.
For a subtle look, I recommend adding just a few thin platinum streaks. This creates a soft, sun-kissed effect.
Those wanting more drama can opt for thicker, more noticeable platinum pieces.
This style needs regular upkeep to stay fresh. Platinum can fade or turn brassy over time.
I suggest using purple shampoo to keep the cool tones looking crisp.
8) Cherry Red Tips
Cherry red tips are a fun way to add some excitement to your hair. I love how they create a fiery look that catches the eye.
This style works great with natural red hair or other shades.
To get cherry red tips, I recommend bleaching the ends first. This helps the bright red color show up better.
You can do this at home or have a stylist do it.
After bleaching, apply a vibrant cherry red dye to the tips. I like to go about 2-3 inches up from the ends.
You can adjust this based on your preference.
Cherry red tips look amazing with updos and braids. They add a pop of color that stands out.
This style is also low-maintenance since it's just on the ends.
If you want to switch things up, you can easily change the color of your tips. Try different shades of red or even other bold colors.
9) Strawberry Blonde Blends
Strawberry blonde is a beautiful mix of red and blonde shades. I love how it creates a warm, sun-kissed look.
This color works well for natural redheads or blondes wanting a change.
To get this look, I recommend using a mix of copper and golden tones. The stylist can apply these as highlights or all-over color.
The result is a soft, peachy hue that's both natural and eye-catching.
Strawberry blonde blends well with fair to medium skin tones. It can brighten up your complexion and make your eyes pop.
I find it especially stunning on people with green or blue eyes.
This color needs some upkeep to stay vibrant. I suggest using color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will keep the color fresh and prevent fading.
10) Bronze Waves
Bronze waves are a stunning choice for redheads looking to add dimension to their locks. I love how this style combines warm copper tones with golden highlights.
It creates a beautiful, sun-kissed effect that looks natural and effortless.
To get bronze waves, I recommend starting with a rich auburn base color. Then, add thin streaks of golden-bronze highlights throughout.
This technique works best on long hair with loose curls or waves.
The result is a gorgeous, multidimensional look that catches the light beautifully. It's perfect for those who want to brighten up their red hair without going too bold.
Bronze waves are versatile and flattering on many skin tones.
For maintenance, I suggest using color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Regular trims will keep the waves looking fresh and bouncy.
With proper care, this style can last for months while growing out gracefully.
11) Mahogany Dimension
Mahogany dimension is a stunning hair color that combines deep red tones with rich brown hues. I love how it creates a multifaceted look that's both dramatic and sophisticated.
This color works well for people with warm skin tones. It brings out golden undertones in the complexion and adds warmth to the face.
To achieve mahogany dimension, stylists often use a mix of deep red and brown dyes. They might also add subtle highlights to create depth and movement.
The result is a head-turning color that looks different in various lighting. In sunlight, the red tones shine through. In dimmer light, the brown shades become more noticeable.
Mahogany dimension requires some upkeep to maintain its vibrancy. I recommend using color-safe shampoos and conditioners.
Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks can help keep the color looking fresh.
12) Champagne Shimmer
Champagne shimmer is a gorgeous highlight choice for red hair. I love how it adds a subtle, elegant glow to auburn and copper shades.
This light golden tone creates a soft, warm effect that complements red hair beautifully.
To achieve this look, I recommend asking your stylist for fine, champagne-colored highlights. They should be placed strategically throughout your red base to create a natural, sun-kissed appearance.
The result is a multi-dimensional color that catches the light in a stunning way. It's perfect for those who want to brighten their red hair without going too bold or dramatic.
Champagne shimmer works well on various red hair shades. It's especially flattering on darker reds, as it creates a lovely contrast.
The shimmer effect can also help make fine hair appear fuller and more voluminous.
13) Sunset Hues
Sunset hues are a stunning choice for red hair with highlights. I love how they blend warm oranges, pinks, and golden tones to create a magical look.
It's like capturing the beauty of a sunset in your hair.
This style works well on various shades of red hair. The highlights add depth and dimension, making your locks look vibrant and full of life.
I think it's perfect for those who want to make a statement without going too bold.
To achieve this look, your stylist will use a mix of lighter shades. They'll place them strategically throughout your hair.
The result is a natural-looking gradient that mimics the colors of the sky at dusk.
I find that sunset hues complement many skin tones. They can warm up your complexion and give you a healthy glow.
It's a great way to refresh your look without straying too far from your natural red color.
14) Coral Glow
Coral glow highlights bring a warm, beachy vibe to red hair. I love how this shade adds a soft, peachy-pink tone that complements natural red hues.
It's perfect for those wanting a subtle change.
To achieve coral glow highlights, I recommend starting with a light red base. The stylist will then add streaks of a coral-pink shade throughout the hair.
This creates a sun-kissed effect that's both natural and eye-catching.
These highlights work well on various red shades, from auburn to strawberry blonde. I find they look especially stunning on those with warm skin tones.
The coral tones bring out a healthy, radiant glow in the complexion.
Maintenance for coral glow highlights is relatively easy. I suggest using color-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep the shade vibrant.
Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will help maintain the fresh, glowing look.
15) Chestnut Tones
I love the rich, warm look of chestnut tones with red hair. This combo adds depth and dimension to natural redheads or dyed red locks.
Chestnut highlights blend beautifully with red hair. They create a subtle, sun-kissed effect that's not too bold or flashy.
I've seen many people rock this style. It works well for both light and dark red hair colors. The chestnut shades can range from light golden brown to deeper chocolate hues.
This highlighting technique can brighten up your face. It adds movement and texture to your hair without looking too dramatic.
I think chestnut tones are great for fall and winter. They give red hair a cozy, seasonal update that's perfect for cooler months.
16) Golden Blonde Shades
I love how golden blonde highlights brighten up red hair. These warm, sunny tones create a beautiful contrast against deeper red shades.
Golden blonde streaks can range from pale honey to rich amber hues. I find that placing them strategically around the face really lights up the complexion.
For a subtle look, I recommend fine golden blonde babylights woven throughout. This gives a sun-kissed effect that's natural and low-maintenance.
Bolder golden blonde chunks or panels make more of a statement. I like how they add dimension and movement to solid red hair.
The key is choosing a golden blonde shade that complements your base red color. A stylist can help pick the perfect tone for your skin and desired look.
17) Amber Strands
I love amber strands in red hair. They add a warm, golden glow that catches the light beautifully. These highlights blend well with copper and auburn base colors.
Amber strands can be subtle or bold. For a natural look, I recommend thin streaks throughout the hair. This creates depth and dimension without being too flashy.
To make a statement, chunky amber pieces near the face work great. They frame the features and brighten the complexion. This style is perfect for those who want to stand out.
Amber highlights pair nicely with fall and winter fashion. They complement warm-toned clothing and makeup.
I find they look especially stunning against jewel-toned outfits.
Maintenance is key for keeping amber strands vibrant. I suggest using color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks help preserve the golden hue.
18) Ginger Highlights
I love how ginger highlights can bring warmth and dimension to red hair. They add a soft, golden-orange tone that looks natural and radiant.
Ginger highlights work well with many shades of red hair. They blend seamlessly with copper and auburn bases. I find they create a sun-kissed effect that's perfect for summer.
These highlights can be applied in various ways. Balayage and babylights are popular techniques for a subtle, blended look. For bolder contrast, chunky streaks or face-framing pieces can be used.
I recommend starting with a few ginger highlights to see how you like the effect. You can always add more later. The key is finding the right shade to complement your base color.
Ginger highlights require some upkeep to maintain their vibrancy. Using color-safe products and limiting heat styling will help them last longer.
19) Metallic Copper Touches
I love the way metallic copper highlights add a special shine to red hair. These touches create a warm, glowing effect that catches the light beautifully.
It's like having little flecks of penny-colored magic woven through your locks.
To get this look, I recommend asking your stylist for thin copper foils or balayage pieces. They work best when placed strategically around the face and crown.
The result is a subtle shimmer that brings out the natural warmth in red hair.
Metallic copper highlights blend well with most shades of red. They look especially striking against deep auburn or burgundy bases.
For a bolder effect, I suggest pairing them with a bright copper or strawberry blonde base color.
Maintenance is pretty simple. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep the copper tones fresh.
A weekly gloss treatment can also help maintain the metallic shine between salon visits.
20) Rustic Orange Edges
I love the look of rustic orange edges on red hair. It's a warm, eye-catching style that brings to mind autumn leaves and cozy sweaters.
To get this look, I'd suggest asking your stylist for a subtle balayage technique.
The orange tones are painted onto the ends and outer layers of red hair. This creates a sun-kissed effect that's both natural and striking.
The rustic quality comes from using a slightly muted orange shade rather than a bright neon.
I think this style works best on medium to long hair. It allows the orange to really shine on the ends.
The contrast between the red base and orange tips is what makes this look so special.
For upkeep, I recommend using color-safe shampoo and conditioner. A weekly deep conditioning treatment can help keep the orange looking fresh and vibrant.
21) Sandy Blonde Touches
I love how sandy blonde highlights can brighten up red hair. These light, warm tones add a sun-kissed look that's perfect for summer.
They work well with many shades of red, from copper to auburn.
To get this look, I recommend asking your stylist for subtle blonde highlights. They should be placed strategically to frame your face and add dimension.
The result is a natural, beachy vibe.
Sandy blonde touches can soften intense red hues. They're great for redheads who want a change without going too drastic.
The blonde pieces catch the light beautifully, making your hair look shiny and healthy.
Maintenance is pretty simple with this style. Touch-ups every 8-10 weeks usually keep it looking fresh.
Using purple shampoo once a week helps prevent brassiness in the blonde sections.
22) Fire Red Tips
Fire red tips are a bold choice for those who want to make a statement with their hair. I love how this style adds a burst of vibrant color to the ends of your locks.
It's like your hair is on fire - in the best way possible!
To get this look, you'll need to bleach the tips of your hair first. This helps the red color show up more brightly. Then, a fiery red dye is applied just to those lightened ends.
The result is hair that looks like it's been dipped in flames. It's eye-catching and fun, perfect for someone who wants to stand out from the crowd.
This style works well on many hair lengths and types. It can add some excitement to long, straight hair or give curly hair an extra pop of color.
23) Peach Balayage
Peach balayage is a fun twist on red hair with highlights. It blends soft peachy tones into red hair, creating a summery look.
I love how this style brightens up red hair. The peach shades add warmth and dimension to natural or dyed red locks.
Stylists apply the peach color using the balayage technique. This means they hand-paint the highlights for a natural, sun-kissed effect.
The result is a gradient of red to peach. It's subtle yet eye-catching. The peach tones can be as bold or soft as you want.
This look works well on many red shades. It suits copper, auburn, and even deeper reds.
The key is picking the right peach tone to match your base color.
Peach balayage is perfect for adding a fresh vibe to red hair. It's low-maintenance too, as the grow-out process looks natural.
24) Violet Red Mix
I love the bold and unique look of violet red hair with highlights. This vibrant mix combines deep red tones with purple hues for a striking effect.
It's perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hair color.
To achieve this look, I start with a rich red base. Then, I add violet highlights throughout.
The result is a multidimensional color that catches the light beautifully.
This style works well on both long and short hair. It can be customized to suit different skin tones too.
For a more subtle look, I might use darker violet shades. For a bolder effect, I'd go for brighter purple tones.
Violet red mix is a great choice for fall and winter. It adds warmth and depth to hair during colder months.
With proper care, this color can stay vibrant for weeks.
25) Chocolate Caramel Swirl
I love the rich blend of chocolate and caramel tones in this hair color. It's a warm, inviting style that reminds me of decadent desserts.
The base is a deep chocolate brown, giving depth and dimension to the hair. Caramel highlights are swirled throughout, creating a beautiful contrast.
This look works well on medium to long hair. The mix of colors adds movement and texture, making it perfect for wavy or curly styles.
I think it's a great choice for those with warm skin tones. The chocolate and caramel hues complement olive and golden complexions beautifully.
Maintenance is key for this color. Regular touch-ups help keep the highlights fresh and vibrant.
I recommend using color-safe shampoo and conditioner to protect the dye.
26) Cinnamon Highlights
Cinnamon highlights are a warm and spicy addition to red hair. I love how they bring out the natural red tones while adding depth and dimension.
These highlights work well on many shades of red hair, from copper to auburn. They create a subtle, sun-kissed effect that looks natural and effortless.
To achieve cinnamon highlights, I recommend using a mix of caramel and light brown tones. This blend creates that perfect cinnamon-inspired color.
The placement of these highlights is key. I suggest focusing them around the face and through the ends of the hair. This technique frames the face beautifully and adds movement to the overall style.
Cinnamon highlights can be as bold or subtle as you want. For a more dramatic look, I'd go for thicker streaks. For a softer effect, finer highlights work best.
27) Golden Brown Shades
Golden brown highlights add warmth and dimension to red hair. I love how they create a sun-kissed look that's perfect for any season. These highlights blend seamlessly with copper and auburn base colors.
For a natural effect, I recommend placing golden brown streaks around the face and crown. This technique brightens the complexion and draws attention to the eyes. The result is a radiant, multidimensional color that catches the light beautifully.
Golden brown works well on all skin tones. It's especially flattering for those with warm undertones. The rich, caramel-like hue complements freckles and brings out golden flecks in the eyes.
To maintain the vibrancy of golden brown highlights, I suggest using color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks will keep the color looking fresh and prevent brassiness.
28) Ruby Tones
Ruby tones are a stunning choice for red hair with highlights. I love how they add depth and dimension to natural or dyed red hair. These rich, jewel-inspired hues range from deep burgundy to bright cherry red.
To achieve ruby tones, I recommend using a mix of permanent and semi-permanent dyes. This combo creates a multi-dimensional look that catches the light beautifully. For the best results, I suggest starting with a base of medium to dark red hair.
Ruby highlights work well on various hair textures and lengths. I find they look especially striking on long, wavy hair or sleek bobs. The key is placing the highlights strategically to frame the face and add movement.
One of my favorite things about ruby tones is their versatility. They can be subtle or bold, depending on personal preference. I've seen gorgeous looks with just a few ruby streaks or all-over ruby highlights.
29) Brick Red Contrast
Brick red highlights can add a bold and striking contrast to red hair. I've seen this look create a beautiful depth and dimension. It works well on various shades of red, from lighter copper tones to deeper auburn hues.
The brick red shade is a rich, warm color that reminds me of terracotta or autumn leaves. When applied as highlights, it can create a stunning visual effect against the base red hair color.
I think this combination looks especially great on longer hair styles. The contrast becomes more noticeable as the hair moves and catches the light. It can also work well with layered cuts, allowing the highlights to peek through at different levels.
For a more subtle look, I recommend asking your stylist to place the brick red highlights strategically around your face. This can brighten your complexion and draw attention to your features.
30) Rust Blonde Blend
Rust blonde blend is a stunning hair color that mixes warm red and golden blonde tones. I love how it creates a rich, dimensional look that's both eye-catching and natural-looking.
This color combo works well for those with fair to medium skin tones. It adds warmth and brightness to the face, giving a sun-kissed glow.
To get this look, I start with a red-orange base color. Then I add golden blonde highlights throughout. The result is a beautiful mix of rust and blonde shades that blend seamlessly.
Maintenance is key for keeping this color fresh. I suggest using color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks help keep the color vibrant and prevent roots from showing.
Understanding Red Hair With Highlights
Red hair with highlights can create stunning, multi-dimensional looks. The right highlight shades complement natural red tones for eye-catching styles.
The Science of Hair Color
Hair color comes from pigments called melanin. Red hair has more pheomelanin, which gives it its coppery hue. When I add highlights, I'm lightening select strands to create contrast.
The lightening process breaks down melanin molecules. This reveals the underlying warm tones in the hair. For redheads, those tones are often golden or strawberry blonde.
Highlighting red hair requires careful color selection. I need to consider the base shade and skin tone. The goal is to enhance the natural color, not overpower it.
Choosing the Right Highlight Shades
For red hair, I recommend warm-toned highlights. These blend naturally with the base color. Good options include:
- Copper
- Golden blonde
- Caramel
- Light auburn
I avoid cool tones like ash or platinum. These can clash with red hair's warm undertones.
The depth of the highlights matters too. I usually go 1-2 shades lighter than the base color. This creates a subtle, sun-kissed effect.
For bolder looks, I might choose brighter blonde or even pastel shades. These work best as accent pieces rather than all-over color.
Maintaining and Caring for Red Hair With Highlights
Red hair with highlights needs special care to keep it looking vibrant and healthy. I'll share some key products and routines to maintain your color and keep your hair in top shape.
Best Hair Care Products
For red hair with highlights, I recommend using color-safe shampoos and conditioners. Look for sulfate-free options to prevent color fading. A good leave-in conditioner helps protect hair from damage.
Here are some top products:
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo
- Pureology Hydrate Conditioner
- Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother
Deep conditioning masks once a week can keep hair soft and shiny. Try Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask.
For styling, heat protectant sprays are a must. I like CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray.
Hair Care Routines for Longevity
To keep red hair with highlights looking fresh, I wash it no more than 2-3 times a week. This helps prevent color fading.
I use cool water when rinsing to seal the hair cuticle.
Between washes, dry shampoo is my friend. It absorbs oil and adds volume.
I limit heat styling and always use a protectant spray first.
When I do use heat, I keep the temperature below 350°F.
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks help prevent split ends. This keeps hair looking healthy and vibrant.
UV protection is key. I use leave-in products with SPF or wear a hat in strong sunlight to prevent fading.
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