25 Best Red Hair Dyes Of 2024, Hairstylist Picks
Flaunt a head full of bold, red hair with confidence and stay ahead of hair trends.
Khamis Maiouf is a professional barber who graduated from Hinckley College in England with a degree in barbering. He has also won several barbering contests and successfully operated a barbershop for the last two decades. As a skilled hair stylist for 20 years, his goal is to teach others how to achieve a beautiful appearance through their hairstyles.
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Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.
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Are you planning to go bold with your new hairstyle? Try some of the 25 best red hair dyes listed in this article. You can use these dyes and get that chic, bolshie look from the comforts of your home! These easy-to-use hair dyes also make for a good DIY project if you plan to spend some quality self-care time on a weekend. Scroll down and take your pick!
In This Article
25 Stunning Red Hair Dyes You Should Try In 2024
The Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Color is made with deionized water, aloe vera, and citric acid, which imparts intense color and luscious shine. The natural formula replenishes your hair and makes it hydrated, soft, and smooth. This hair color contains natural proteins that repair damaged cuticles and restore hair’s natural shine. It is infused with penetrative conditioners that deposit vivid pigments on your hair. This semi-permanent dye is also suitable for all hair types and has not undergone animal testing.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Peroxide-free
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for all hair types
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains SLS, EDTA, and added fragrance.
Quick TipArdell Raw Demi-Permanent Hair Color - Neon Red
The Ardell Ray Demi-Permanent Hair Color delivers luscious color that lasts for up to 3-6 weeks. It dyes your hair without making it dry or brittle. You can directly apply the color to your hair without a developer. It takes just 15 minutes to achieve deeply colored hair with an intense shine. This product does not contain harmful ingredients that may cause skin allergies or asthma.
Pros
- Not tested on animals
- Paraben-free
- Ammonia-free
- PPD-free
- Vegan
- Lasts for up to 45 washes
Cons
- Contains alcohol and sulfates
Quick Tip
The L’Oreal Paris Feria delivers a shimmering and vibrantly bold color. This rich shade comes with a conditioner that smoothens your hair and enhances color longevity and intensity. This bold red hair dye offers a prismatic color with a multi-faceted shimmer that appears like highlights.
Cool and warm tones combine to form this wonderful auburn blend. It looks stunning when paired with a brunette afro. The light tips help soften your face by adding definition and highlighting your features. Watch the video for more information about the product and also learn about the tester’s experience.
Pros
- Non-drip formula
- Adds shine
- Pleasant smell
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Contains alcohol, perfume, and resorcinol.
Lunar Tides Hair Dye - Blood Moon
The Lunar Tides Hair Dye provides long-lasting and richly pigmented hair color. Pair it with a color-safe and sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner for best results. You can also add some dye to your conditioner for color-depositing effects. This semi-permanent hair dye is made with revitalizing ingredients that color your hair while caring for it.
This auburn shade helps highlight and soften your facial outline. This means if you have wide cheeks or a sharp jawline, adding auburn highlights near the face can dampen the harshness. Check out this video to learn more about the product and the reviewer’s experience of the same.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Long-lasting
- Gentle formula
Cons
- Contains alcohol and ammonium.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 5,958 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Manic Panic Amplified Formula - Vampire Red
The Manic Panic Amplified Formula provides three times the pigment and lasts for 6-8 weeks. This ready-to-use dye does not require a developer. You can safely mix this product with other shades to create customized hues.
The vampire red color can provide burgundy tones to virgin, unbleached hair. Lighten your hair to level 8 blonde or lighter for best results. This semi-permanent hair dye is vegan and cruelty-free. Reviewers have left positive reviews on Amazon, commending its rich pigmentation
Pros
- Paraphenylenediamine-free
- Ammonia-free
- Resorcinol-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Not tested on animals
- Vegan
Cons
- Contains alcohol and ammonium
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 5,942 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
Schwarzkopf Color Ultime - Ruby Red
The Schwarzekopf Color Ultime provides vivid color intensity and lasts for up to 10 weeks. It is formulated with pearl essence and an intensive care elixir that add shine to your hair. If you have hazel eyes, the deep red tips will bring out the deep red flecks in your eyes. This hair color goes well with neutral skin tones. Check out this video to learn more about this product.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Offers high coverage
- Ideal for relaxed and natural hair
- Non-drip formula
- Fade-resistant
Cons
- Contains alcohol and added fragrance and color.
SoftSheen Carson Go Intense - Spicy Red
The SoftSheen Go Intense Permanent Hair Color is infused with shine and color boosters to deliver high pigmentation. It contains olive oil that deeply moisturizes your hair. This crème dye colors curly, wavy, relaxed, natural, and transitioning hair, providing 100% gray hair coverage. This affordable red hair dye provides superior color vibrancy that colors the darkest of hair shades.
Pros
- 95% natural ingredients
- Ammonia-free
- Paraben-free
- DEA-free
- Resorcinol-free
- Silicone-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Vegan
- Dermatologist tested
- Suitable for all hair types
- Ideal for African American hair
Cons
- Contains hydrogen peroxide, urea, and alcohol
Splat Rebellious Colors - Crimson Obsession
This semi-permanent hair dye provides long-lasting and vibrant hair color for dry and normal hair types. The conditioning formula colors your hair while making it look and feel fresh. This hair color contains baobab seed oil and quinoa extract. Baobab seed oil replenishes your hair, while quinoa extracts strengthen and protect your hair.
This color enhances your hair shine and lasts for up to 30 washes. It does not infiltrate the cortex to color your hair but dye the hair shaft surface.
Note: This hair color may temporarily stain the skin and permanently stain clothes, towels, and bedding. Use petrolatum jelly on your face and neck before using this color to avoid staining.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- PPD-free
- Ammonia-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol and propylene glycol
Best Long-Lasting:L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference - Chic Auburn Brown
The L’Oreal Paris Superior Preference is an exclusive gel hair dye formula paired with a Care Supreme conditioner and shine serum to boost color vibrancy. This auburn hair dye conditions your hair and leave it soft, silky, and shiny. This hair color is fade-resistant for up to 8 weeks. It covers your grays – you can customize your hair, try out ombre or other hair coloring trends. It contains golden camelina oil, vitamin E, and a UV filter, which accentuate your hair shine.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Paraffin-free
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Contains hydrogen peroxide
Manic Panic Semi-Permanent Hair Color Cream - Wildfire
The Manic Panic Semi-Permanent Hair Color Creme is a ready-to-use dye that colors your hair without a developer. It is formulated with conditioning ingredients that leave your hair hydrated. This rich red hair dye lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free (PETA accredited)
- PPD-free
- Ammonia-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Resorcinol-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol and propylene glycol
Punky Color Semi-Permanent Conditioning Hair Color - Fire
This semi-permanent hair color is formulated with a color-enhancing keratin complex that lasts up to 35 washes. You can customize and create multi-tonal, ombre, and holographic hues. This product conditions the hair and makes it healthier, softer, and smoother.
Note: This hair color is recommended for lighter hair shades and not for medium brown, darker hair colors, or grey hair coverage.
Pros
- PPD-free
- Paraben-free
- Ammonia-free
- Non-GMO
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Contains alcohol and propylene glycol
Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Color Creme - Light Intense Auburn
The Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Color Nourishing Color Creme is made with triple fruit oils – avocado, olive, and shea. The Color Boost Technology delivers bold and vibrant colors to locks. This professional-grade dye has a rich creme texture and non-drip consistency, which spreads evenly through the hair. It also contains another nourishing ingredient, grapeseed, that makes your hair soft, silky, and shiny.
Pros
- Non-drip formula
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Value for money
Cons
- Contains PPD
Color-X-Change Semi-Permanent Hair Color- Renegade Red
The Color-X-Change Semi-Permanent Hair Color offers a vibrant tone. It enhances hair shine and color while retaining moisture in the cuticle. This gentle red hair dye is formulated with the highest concentration of color pigments to amplify the longevity of its shade. It does not contain peroxide, ammonia, gluten, ethyl alcohol, PPD, parabens, or fragrances.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Peroxide-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- PPD-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol and ammonium
This hair color is formulated with natural ingredients like aloe vera water, argan oil, keratin, collagen, and olive oil. It delivers vivid color without compromising hair health. Aloe vera water contains amino acids and proteolytic enzymes, which repairs dead cells on the scalp and regulate its pH balance. The conditioning agents keep your hair moisturized and healthy. This product does not contain ammonia, sulfates, or peroxide.
Pros
- Ideal for chemically-treated hair
- Fresh floral scent
- Non-drip formula
- Ammonia-free
- Sulfate-free
- Peroxide-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol and EDTA
Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color- Poison
The Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color is made of natural ingredients that condition your hair and improve vibrancy. It barely smears on application, giving you a clean, salon-style experience. Use this product on pre-lightened hair for best results. The hydrating formula leaves your hair with a sweet fragrance. This hair dye does not require a developer and lasts up to 4 to 8 weeks. It colors your hair without any damaging effects.
Pros
- Non-drip formula
- Long-lasting
- Ammonia-free
- Peroxide-free
- Alcohol-free
- PPD-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol and propylene glycol.
Clairol Textures And Tones Permanent Moisture-Rich hair Color - Cognac
This hair color is made with jojoba and five botanical extracts. It delivers long-lasting and deep-intensity color with a rich shine and moisture. The anti-fade formula with natural proteins and jojoba condition and strengthen your hair. This hair color provides 100% grey coverage and improves your hair texture.
Pros
- Provides 100% grey coverage
- Suitable for all hair types
- Long-lasting
- Value for money
Cons
- Contains alcohol and propylene glycol
dpHUE Gloss+ Semi-Permanent Hair Color - Copper
This semi-permanent hair color is formulated with a deep-conditioning base. It contains nourishing ingredients that make your hair shiny, soft, and healthy. This product acts as a color boost that enhances radiance and prevents your hair color from fading. It does not contain parabens, ammonia, phthalates, sulfates, peroxide, or gluten.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Paraffin-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Peroxide-free
- Ammonia-free
Cons
- None
Ion Color Brilliance Brights Semi-Permanent Crème Hair Color - Red
The Ion Color Brilliance Brights Semi-Permanent Crème Hair Color is best suited for chemically-treated hair. It delivers intense color pigmentation without a developer. The color pigments deposit into pre-bleached, lightened, natural, or color-treated hair within 20-40 minutes.
Pros
- Ammonia-free
- Peroxide-free
- Non-drip formula
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Contains alcohol and parabens
John Frieda Radiant Red Precision Foam Color - Deep Cherry Brown
The Precision Foam Color from John Frieda penetrates the hair roots and provides 100% gray coverage. It spreads easily and delivers vibrant color to difficult-to-reach spots near the hairline. The nourishing, after-color conditioner seals the hair color and keeps hair healthy, soft, and smooth. This permanent hair color uses foam technology that provides a salonesque experience from the comfort of your home.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Paraffin-free
- Long-lasting
- Provides 100% gray coverage
Cons
- Contains hydrogen peroxide
Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel – Flash Fashion Crimson Red
This permanent hair color gel from Herbatint delivers a natural-looking, vibrant color. It is formulated with organic herbal extracts, which gently lightens your natural hair color up to two shades. The ammonia-free formula contains eight herbal extracts which soothe and shield your hair, enhance color, and nourish the scalp.
This hair color contains aloe vera, meadowfoam, white birch, witch hazel, cinchona calisaya, echinacea angustifolia, walnut, and rhubarb. Aloe vera and meadowfoam preserve hair moisture, white birch tones and soothes the hair, and walnut acts as a purifying agent and enhances the lifespan of the color.
Peruvian bark protects the scalp during the coloring process. Purple coneflower moisturizes your hair, and witch hazel nourishes the scalp. Rhubarb, a natural color enhancer, conditions the hair.
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Non-drip formula
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- Alcohol-free
- No added fragrance
- Ammonia-free
- PPD-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Eco-friendly
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not long-lasting
Lime Crime Unicorn Hair – Chocolate Cherry
The Unicorn Hair dye from Lime Crime provides an intense color payoff to pre-bleached platinum and medium blonde hair. It can be used on dark blonde to light brown hair. This semi-permanent hair color protects your hair and makes it silky smooth. The ultra-conditioning formula nourishes and softens the hair while dispensing color pigments.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Ammonia-free
- Sulfate-free
- Bleach-free
- Peroxide-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Contains hydrogen peroxide
Garnier Olia Brilliant Color - Dark Garnet Red
The Garnier Olia Brilliant Color is a permanent, ammonia-free hair dye. It contains an exclusive 60% oil blend with natural flower oils. The no-drip formula leaves your hair healthy-looking. This hair dye can be used for root touch-ups, or to enhance your natural hair shade. It contains avocado, olive, and shea oils that nourish the hair. This product provides 100% grey coverage with long-lasting color. It prevents roughness and dullness, making your hair silky and three times shinier and stronger.
Pros
- Non-drip formula
- Ammonia-free
- Pleasant scent
- Long-lasting
- Provides 100% gray coverage
Cons
- Contains PPD
Clairol Nice’N Easy - Light Auburn
The Clairol Nice’N Easy permanent hair dye is made with a blend of three tones and highlights that provide natural vibrant shade. It conditions and softens the hair and adds shine. This hair color provides 100% grey coverage that lasts for up to eight weeks. The gentle, non-drip formula is suitable for chemically-treated hair. This product is infused with an exclusive molecule ME plus, which reduces the risk of an allergic reaction.
Pros
- Ideal for chemically-treated hair
- Fresh floral scent
- Non-drip formula
- Lasts for up to 8 weeks
Cons
- Contains alcohol and EDTA
Schwarzkopf Got2Be Metallics - Dark Ruby
The Schwarzkopf Got2Be Metallics with Anti-Fading Technology enhances the hair color’s lifespan. It is formulated with a metallic-radiance booster suitable for cool, shimmery tones. This dye can be used to color natural hair and synthetic hair like wigs and extensions. It delivers strong metallic radiance and works best with lighter hair shades.
Pros
- Non-drip formula
- Long-lasting
- Metallic finish
- Value for money
Cons
- Contains PPD
Pravana ChromaSilk Vivids - Red
The Pravana ChromaSilk Vivids offers intense pigmentation with elevated shine. It is formulated with pure silk and keratin amino acids which penetrate the hair to deliver an intense color payoff. The keratin amino acids fortify your hair, and attaches color to the shaft. This dye preserves the structure of your hair and offers excellent gray hair coverage. It works with all hair types, but make sure your hair is pre-lightened for best results. This long-lasting hair color does not contain parabens, phthalates, MEA, DEA, and EPA.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- No animal testing
- MEA-free
- DEA-free
- EPA-free
- Long-lasting
- CARB-compliant
Cons
- None
There is something magnificent about red hair that adds a tonne of oomph to your personality. So, if you are considering dying your hair red, here are some factors to consider while choosing the best red hair dyes for your hair.
Things To Consider While Buying The Best Red Hair Dyes
There is a shade of red for all skin tones. But, you also have to consider your skin’s undertone to determine which shade of red hair dye suits your skin the best and gives a flattering look.
- Fair Skin Tone: Vibrant and brighter shades of red hair dye works best for this skin tone. Pick hues like ginger or cinnamon red as they complement fair skin better.
- Neutral Skin Tone: Classic and rich, auburn hued red hair dyes work best for neutral skin tones.
- Medium Skin Tone: Metallic or copper reds and pink-ish red hues are suitable for medium skin tones with warm undertones.
- Deeper Skin Tone: Darker hues of reds like burgundy, wine, or maroon works beautifully on dusky to dark skin tones.
Pick a product that has a no-drip, toxin-free, and hypoallergenic formula. Opt for ammonia-free red hair dyes as they are a safe way to color your hair. Ammonia-free hair colors have lower chances of causing allergic reactions and skin sensitivity. If you have sensitive hair or scalp, do a patch test before trying any product.
Hair dying is a process that is sure to cause a tad bit of damage to your hair. Which is why, pick a dye that contains hair nourishing ingredients. No matter what hair type, pick a formula that has ingredients like aloe vera, olive oil, quinoa extracts, vitamin E, or keratin proteins. These moisturize and nourish your hair while transforming them.
Pick a hair dye that offers great coverage, no matter what your actual hair color. Also, if you are going for a global red hair dye, ensure you patch test it first to estimate the time that your hair requires to catch the color.
- Permanent Vs Demi- And Semi- Permanent Hair Colors: Opt for permanent color if you want your hair color to last longer. Semi- and demi-permanent hair colors may wash out with regular shampooing and reveal your hair’s natural shade.
- Maintenance: You need to touch up your hair color once a month, depending on how quickly the color fades or washes out.
- Skin Tone: Pick a shade of red that suits your skin tone. If you have a warm skin tone, pick warm red tones. If you have a cool undertone with a cool complexion, pick cooler red tones. If you have neutral skin tones, you can select any shade of your choice.
- Fade-Outs: Use products made for color-treated hair to prevent your red hair from fading easily. These hair care products elongate the life span of your color and maintain its vibrancy. You can also use color-depositing shampoos and conditioners to keep your color fresh.
- Precautions: Make sure you take the necessary precautions while coloring your hair at home. Apply petroleum jelly to the skin near your hair to prevent staining. Use old t-shirts and clothes when coloring your hair. Keep everything you need ready, so you don’t have to keep running around. Follow the instructions properly as mentioned in the product package.
- Heat Protection: Stop using heating tools temporarily to prevent color fading. If you are using heating tools, make sure to apply a heat protectant before and after the process. Cover your hair when under the sun, and avoid washing your hair in hot water.
- Use the right hair care products to maintain your colored hair. Products meant for color-treated hair enhance the lifespan of your hair color and prevent fading.
- Avoid heating tools to style your hair as per your hair color idea.
- Oil your hair regularly. Oiling your hair not only increases color intensity but also strengthens your hair and promotes growth.
- Opt for regular touch-ups. You can also go for color-depositing shampoos and conditioners to prolong your hair color.
- Reduce shampooing to 2-3 times a week and use a sulfate-free shampoo designed for color-treated hair to maintain your vibrant red.
- Protect your hair when you are out in the sun. Either use a scarf, hat, or a heat protectant without any harsh chemicals.
Infographic: Tips To Care For Your Red Hair Color
Red hair color makes you look bold, confident, and stunning. But after using it, it is crucial to take care of your hair to prevent color fading. Check out the below infographic to learn some essential tips on maintaining red hair color the right way. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Hair dyes without harsh chemicals help to transform your original hair color into the desired shade. The color red for hair is bold and stunning. From raging red to the blood moon, and from vampire red to renegade red, the article provides a wide range of red shades to give your hair a dramatic look. The Ardell Raw Demi-Permanent Hair Color – Neon Red is a vegan option that won’t dry or damage hair, while the Lunar Tides Hair Dye – Blood Moon is gentle and long-lasting shade. For a ready-to-use dye without the need for a developer, go for the Manic Panic Amplified Formula – Vampire Red. However, a red hair dye free from paraben and other harmful chemicals will be safer on your tresses. You may also like to choose those hair dyes that repair the damaged cuticles and add some shine to the hair color.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you keep bright red hair vibrant?
Avoid washing your hair frequently after coloring. Use a color-protecting shampoo, conditioner, and hair serum to maintain color vibrancy.
How long does permanent red hair dye last?
This solely depends on the brand you choose and the way you maintain your dyed hair. If you wash your hair too frequently or use heat treatment, the color will fade faster. However, if maintained properly, the color should stay for at least eight weeks without fading.
How often can I dye my hair?
It is recommended to wait for at least three to four weeks before reapplying your dye. Frequent dying can cause dryness and hair breakage.
How long should I leave the dye on my hair if I have resistant gray hair?
Usually, hair dyes should be left on your hair for at least 30 minutes before washing it off. However, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Is red hair high maintenance?
Yes. The red color fades very quickly. The roots regain their original color quite fast. Therefore, revisit the salon every four weeks to maintain the vibrancy of the red hair color.
Does red hair dye damage hair?
Red dye damages the hair if you are dyeing it with a lighter shade than your natural hair color. However, the chances of damaging the hair are minimal if you use a darker red hue and a safe formulation.
Why is my red hair dye washing out?
Red dye has larger molecules, so it cannot easily penetrate the hair’s cortex. Therefore, red hair dyes tend to fade and wash out quickly.
How to remove red hair dye?
Red hair dyes do not last long. They start washing away after four weeks. If you wish to remove the color before that, use any of the four ways:
• Try using a hair dye-removing formula. It removes the red pigment from the hair but does not restore the original hair color.
• Use a hair bleach kit to lighten and remove the unwanted color from the hair.
• Dye your hair with dark brown or copper auburn dye to tone down the red pigments.
• Purchase a green shampoo and wash your hair with it to neutralize the bright red tones.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a hair care and styling enthusiast and loves to experiment with different products. She went through numerous reviews and feedback available on trusted online forums and websites to curate this list of the best red hair dyes for her readers. The products listed in this article impart intense color and luscious shine to your tresses from the comfort of your home.
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