How to Enhance Natural Red Hair

Want to know how to enhance natural red hair? Same, bestie. Oh no, wait: you want ME to tell YOU how to do it? Well, OK, that’s a little bit more complicated, because although I’ve tried what feels like a vast quantity of red-enhancing products over the years, I’ve yet to find one that’s perfect. A few years ago, I’d have had absolutely no hesitation in recommending Superdrug Colour Effects Conditioner in Rich Red or Warm Copper Gold, which was hands down the cheapest AND best product for enhancing red hair. Unfortunately, however, Superdrug recently changed the formula of this product, and I’m sad to report that it’s nowhere near as good as it used to be – in fact, it does’t really do much for my hair at all these days. This makes me sad. So:

How to enhance natural red hair?

Good question.

Like many natural redheads, my ginger hair started off a bright, vibrant ginger, which has gradually faded over the years to the point I’m at now, where it’s more of a strawberry blonde. This also makes me sad: not because there’s anything wrong with strawberry blonde hair, but simply because I loved my vibrant red. Despite the teasing (and occasional bullying) a lot of redheads get, I’ve never wanted to dye my red hair: I’ve always loved being a redhead, and I’m not ready to give it up yet. (And probably not ever, to be honest.)

Because the options for redheads are so limited, however, I feel like I’m basically on a never-ending search for products to enhance my natural colour, without changing it completely.

How to enhance natural ginger hair

These days I mostly use henna to enhance my ginger hair: which works, but which is messy, time-consuming, and very permanent (other than on me, apparently, but that’s a whole other subject…). It’s a Whole Thing, in other words, and, I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather have something quick, easy, and which can ideally be used in the shower. Fortunately, however, there are a tonne of red-enhancing products available, including shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, and styling products. Each product type serves a different purpose, and not all are created equal, which is why my hair is currently the most expensive thing I own, thanks to all the money I’ve spent on products to enhance it. I’m talking here about things like:

Related: Lush Caca Rouge Henna review

* Shampoos and conditioners formulated for red hair, which are designed to enhance and maintain the colour’s vibrancy. They often contain ingredients like henna, beetroot, or red raspberry extract, which help to intensify the red tones in the hair.

* Hair masks are another great option for enhancing red hair. They provide deep conditioning to the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and full of life.

* Styling products like hair sprays, gels, and mousses can also enhance red hair. They help to hold the hair in place while adding volume and shine. However, it’s essential to choose a product that won’t weigh down the hair or make it look greasy.

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Best Products to Enhance Auburn Hair

As someone who has experimented with various products to enhance my own red locks, I’ve compiled a list of the best products I’ve used myself, plus a few from my wish list. From shampoos to hair masks, these products will help you achieve the vibrant and healthy-looking red hair you desire. So without further ado, here are the top products to enhance red hair.

John Frieda Radiant Red Red Boosting Shampoo

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This shampoo is formulated with Vitamin E and pomegranate extract to help preserve and enhance the vibrancy of red hair. With anti-fade technology, this shampoo can help protect your colour and boost softness and shine. It’s safe for all shades of natural and colour-treated red hair and can be used every time you shampoo.

Pros

• Enhances and preserves the vibrancy of auburn hair
• Contains Vitamin E and pomegranate extract for added nourishment
• Safe for all shades of natural and colour-treated red hair

Cons

• May not work as well for other hair colours
• Some users may not like the scent
• May not lather as well as other shampoos

See my full review here.

Joico Color Infuse Redhead Shampoo

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This is a shampoo and conditioner duo (You can buy them separately, obviously, but they’ll be more effective if used together), and, like the many other colour depositing products I’ve used over the years, they work by depositing small amounts of colour each time you wash your hair with them.So, it’s super-simple, really: just use them as you’d use any regular shampoo or conditioner, make sure you leave them on for at least three minutes (This goes for the shampoo as well as conditioner), then rinse and style as normal.

The product is a deep burgundy shade when it comes out of the tube (And, yes, it WILL stain, so make sure you rinse thoroughly, and I’d also avoid using your best white towels with this, just in case…), but the colour it deposits is much more subtle than that, you’ll be glad to know.

I did actually notice a difference from the very first wash with this, but, as you’d expect from products of this nature, it’s the kind of difference you really have to be looking for: so, it’ll boost your colour (And help stop it fading, in the case of dyed hair…) but it won’t – or shouldn’t – radically change it.

Unlike some of the other colour-depositing products I’ve tried, I actually rate this as a shampoo/conditioner, too: as well as making my natural ginger look a little brighter, it also leaves it feeling softer and smoother than usual, so it gets a thumbs-up for that reason, too.

Pros

• Instantly refreshes red tones
• Boosts color vibrancy and shine
• Protects against harmful UV damage

Cons

• May dry out ginger hair with frequent use
• Bottle may leak during shipping
• Not effective for removing green tones from bleached hair

Best Earth Naturals Color Boost Red Conditioner

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A temporary hair color solution that also conditions your hair, Best Earth Naturals Color Boost Red Conditioner is the latest addition to my Amazon wish list, and claims to be suitable for all shades of red (REALLY?) and to cover grays, which is something you don’t often get with color boosting products.

Pros

• Adds temporary red color to all shades of red hair
• Can be used to blend color back into gray hair strands
• Multi-tasking product that saves time and money

Cons

• May not work as well on non-red hair colors
• The color may not last as long as expected
• May not be suitable for those with very sensitive skin

eSalon Color Depositing Hair Color Booster Treatment – Tint Rinse Hair Toner & Enhancer

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eSalon are probably best known for hair dyes rather than boosting treatments: I’ve used the service a couple of times when I’ve been experimenting with chemical dye, and found them really good at matching color. They also, however, sell this copper toner, which is a much kinder way to boost your color without resorting to harsh chemicals. Word to the wise, here: the first time I used this, I put way too much on one strand of my hair, which came out BRIGHT, SHOCKING RED. Although this is just a toner, I found it really hard to wash out; which I guess is good news if you like the colour, but maybe not so good if you don’t.

Pros

• Adds vibrancy and shine to red hair
• Easy to use
• Can be used up to twice a week

Cons

• May not work as well on darker hair shades
• Can be messy if not applied carefully
• Can be hard to wash out if you don’t like the shade.

I recently tried the eSalon Tint Rinse in Red, and I was impressed with the results. The treatment added a beautiful vibrancy to my red hair and left it looking shiny and healthy. It was also easy to use – I simply applied it to wet hair after shampooing and left it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out.

One thing to keep in mind is that the treatment may not work as well on darker hair shades. If you have very dark hair, you may not notice as much of a difference. Additionally, the treatment can be messy if not applied carefully, so be sure to follow the instructions closely.

Overall, I would recommend the eSalon Color Depositing Hair Color Booster Treatment to anyone looking to enhance their red hair. It’s an easy and affordable way to add some vibrancy and shine to your locks.

Madison Reed Color Reviving Gloss Barolo – Red

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This is a gel formula that doesn’t require any mixing, and one of the biggest advantagesis that it’s ammonia-free and free of other harsh ingredients, making it a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies. Plus, it’s cruelty-free, too. It lasts for 6-8 shampoos, which would actually be pretty good going on my hair, which is very resistant to dye: and, of course, if it workss, it’s not exactly a big deal to have to use it once a week, is it?

Pros

• Adds brilliant shine to hair
• Corrects color tone and vibrancy
• Easy to apply at home

Cons

• Lasts only 6-8 shampoos
• Color may turn out too orange on some hair types
• Tube size may not be enough for very long or thick hair

dpHUE Gloss+ – Copper

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This one’s a semi-permanent hair dye that also deep conditions your hair, leaving it soft, shiny and manageable. The color lasted for about 3 weeks before fading, which is pretty good for a semi-permanent dye, but it’s not designed to cover grays, which I guess will render it pretty useless if that’s what you’re wanting it for.

Pros

• Boosts your hair color and gives it a fresh out-of-the-salon feel
• Easy to use, with no mixing required
• Conditions your hair while coloring it

Cons

• Not suitable for blonde hair or gray coverage
• May be too warm-toned for some people
• May not last as long as permanent hair dye

Zotos Quantum Riveting Reds Color Replenishing Shampoo For Red Hair

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I noticed a difference after my first application: my hair was brighter, redder and just a slightly more intense version of its natural colour. What I would say about this, though – and actually ALL products in this genre that I’ve tried – is that the difference is subtle enough that you shouldn’t be surprised if you’re the only one who notices. I’ve never had anyone ask if if changed my hair colour after using something like this for instance, because I just don’t think that one shade of red looks much different to another to the casual observer. People would obviously notice if I went from red to blonde or black, say, but a more intense version of my usual colour? Nah: it might look different to ME, but to anyone else, it’s no biggie.

Pros

• The color-depositing formula gently cleanses and conditions hair, enhancing the color of all shades of red hair.
• The shampoo and conditioner are sulfate and paraben-free, making them safe for color-treated hair.
• The product benefits include shine, color-safe, and replenishing, leaving hair looking and feeling healthy.

Cons

• The price may be a bit high for some customers.
• The product may stain hands and nails, so be careful while using it.
• The shampoo and conditioner do not brighten the red tones as much as expected.

Read my full review

Keracolor Clenditioner Red Hair Dye

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Pros

• Keracolor Clenditioner Hair Dye is a semi-permanent hair color that deposits color while conditioning your hair.
• The product is cruelty-free, which means it’s not tested on animals.
• Keracolor Clenditioner Hair Dye comes in a 12 oz bottle, which is a generous amount that will last for several uses.

Cons

• The product may not work as well on dark hair as it does on lighter hair.
• Keracolor Clenditioner Hair Dye may not last as long as you’d like.
• The product may stain your hands, so be sure to wear gloves when applying it.

Davines Alchemic Conditioner, Copper

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Pros

• Hydrates hair
• Protects and enriches color
• Natural ingredients

Cons

• Doesn’t feel like it does much
• Unpleasant smell compared to other hair treatments
• May not cover gray roots

ALOXXI InstaBoost Color Depositing Conditioner Mask

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Pros

• Instantly adds beautiful color
• Provides intense nourishment, hydration, and shine
• Lasts up to 10-15 washes

Cons

• May not provide all-over coverage
• May require a lot of product to cover all hair
• Can be too intense to look natural

Evo Fabuloso – Colour Boosting Treatment

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Pros

• Instantly tones to intensify and extend the life of color-treated hair.
• Nourishing hair treatment for dry hair.
• Compact size makes it perfect for travel.

Cons

• The small size might not be suitable for those with long hair.
• May dry out hair if overused.
• Can stain hands and towels.

Four Reasons Color Mask – Red Copper

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This color mask is a great option for anyone looking to enhance their red hair color without committing to a permanent dye. It brightens and enhances red hair color, leaving hair looking vibrant and healthy. Additionally, it is vegan and cruelty-free, making it a great option for those who are environmentally conscious.One potential downside is that it may require a longer processing time than advertised to achieve desired results.

Pros

• Brightens and enhances red hair color
• Semi-permanent hair dye
• Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

• May require longer processing time for desired results
• May not work well on all hair types
• May not last as long as permanent hair dye

Good Dye Young DYEposit Color Depositing Conditioner (Copper)

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Pros

• The bold colors are mixable, unapologetically loud, deep, vibrant, and long-lasting. You can mix them with Fader for lighter tones and None More Black for darker tones.
• The essential oil of bergamot adds an all-natural citrus/spice fragrance that’s known for its relaxing, soothing and purifying benefits.
• Good Dye Young DYEposit Color Depositing Conditioner (Copper) is a PETA approved product and winner of the 2017 Libby Award as Best Vegan Hair Dye.

Cons

• The product is difficult to get just right. When you do, it’s a beautiful colour, but not a ton of pigment, and it does leave the hair super soft.
• The pigment of this product is not as much as expected. It does not make much of a difference, if any.
• The conditioner itself is great, but there’s only half the bottle of product inside.

Wella Color Fresh Mask

This literally turned my hair orange the first time I used it, but, er, try not to be too put off by that, because when you use it RIGHT (i.e. actually follow the instructions and don’t just decide to freestyle it), it’s actually a really great color.

Pros

• The mask is easy to apply and doesn’t have a strong smell.
• It covers nicely and makes hair soft.
• It can neutralize brassy tones and revive faded color.

Cons

• It may leave hair with a slight purple hue.
• It is not a treatment mask and does not provide intense moisture.
• The natural shades may not match the desired color exactly.

How to enhance natural red hair: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best natural products to enhance natural red hair?

There are several natural products that can enhance red hair, including henna, chamomile tea, and beetroot juice. Henna is a great option if you want to add a reddish tint to your hair, while chamomile tea and beetroot juice can help brighten and enhance your natural red hair colour.

How can I prevent natural red hair from turning brown?

To prevent natural red hair from turning brown, it’s important to avoid exposing your hair to too much sunlight and heat. You can also use a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for red hair, which can help maintain your hair’s natural colour.

Which shampoo is best to enhance natural red hair?

There are several shampoos that are specifically designed for maintaining natural ginger hair, including Aveda Madder Root Shampoo, John Frieda Radiant Red Boosting Shampoo, and Pureology Reviving Red Shampoo.

What are the benefits of using henna to enhance natural red hair?

Henna is a natural dye that can be used to enhance red hair and add a reddish tint to other hair colours. It’s a great alternative to chemical dyes, as it’s gentle on the hair and scalp. Henna can also help strengthen and condition hair, leaving it looking shiny and healthy.

How can I make my red hair brighter?

To make your red hair brighter, you can try using a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup and enhance your hair’s natural shine. You can also try rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar, which can help remove product buildup and leave your hair looking brighter.

What causes red hair to become dull and how can I fix it?

Red hair can become dull due to a variety of factors, including overexposure to the sun, heat styling, and using the wrong hair products. To fix dull red hair, try using a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup, and use a hair mask or deep conditioner to nourish and hydrate your hair. You can also try using a hair oil or serum to add shine and protect your hair from further damage.