Are you tired of your dull brown locks and yearning for a fiery red mane? If so, you’re not alone. Many people with brown hair dream of going red, but they’re often unsure if it’s possible to achieve this drastic color change. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hair dye and explore the possibilities of putting red hair dye over brown.
Understanding Hair Color Theory
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of dyeing brown hair red, it’s essential to understand the basics of hair color theory. Hair color is determined by the presence of two types of melanin: eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for brown and black colors, while pheomelanin produces red and yellow colors. When you dye your hair, you’re essentially altering the balance of these two melanins.
The Challenges of Dyeing Brown Hair Red
Dyeing brown hair red can be a challenging process, especially if you’re trying to achieve a vibrant, fire engine red color. This is because brown hair has a higher concentration of eumelanin, which can make it difficult for the red dye to penetrate the hair shaft. Additionally, brown hair often has a warm, golden undertone that can clash with the cool, blue undertones of red hair dye.
Why Red Hair Dye May Not Take
There are several reasons why red hair dye may not take well over brown hair:
- Insufficient lifting: Red hair dye may not be able to lift the hair enough to achieve the desired color. This is especially true if you’re trying to go from a dark brown to a light red.
- Warm undertones: Brown hair often has warm, golden undertones that can clash with the cool, blue undertones of red hair dye. This can result in a brassy, orange color that’s not desirable.
- Porosity issues: If your hair has low porosity, it may be difficult for the red dye to penetrate the hair shaft. This can result in a patchy, uneven color.
How to Put Red Hair Dye Over Brown
If you’re still determined to put red hair dye over your brown hair, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:
Choose the Right Red Hair Dye
Not all red hair dyes are created equal. When choosing a red hair dye, look for one that’s specifically formulated for brown hair. These dyes usually have a higher concentration of color-depositing agents that can help to lift the hair and achieve the desired color.
Consider a Semi-Permanent or Demi-Permanent Dye
If you’re new to red hair dye, you may want to consider starting with a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye. These dyes are less damaging than permanent dyes and can help you achieve a subtle, temporary color change.
Prepare Your Hair
Before applying the red hair dye, make sure to prepare your hair properly. This includes:
- Using a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup
- Applying a pre-color treatment to help open up the hair cuticle and allow the dye to penetrate more evenly
- Using a strand test to ensure the desired results and to check for any allergic reactions
Apply the Red Hair Dye
Once you’ve prepared your hair, it’s time to apply the red hair dye. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions to protect your skin and clothing.
Alternative Options
If you’re not ready to commit to a full-on red hair dye job, there are several alternative options you can consider:
Highlights or Lowlights
Adding highlights or lowlights can be a great way to add some red dimension to your brown hair without making a full commitment. This can be done with a semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye, and can be a great way to test the waters before going for a full-on red color.
Gloss or Toner
A gloss or toner can be a great way to add some red shine to your brown hair. These products can be applied to the hair to add a temporary color boost and can be a great way to enhance your natural color.
Conclusion
Putting red hair dye over brown can be a challenging process, but it’s not impossible. By understanding the basics of hair color theory, choosing the right red hair dye, and preparing your hair properly, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to always follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions to protect your skin and clothing. And if you’re not ready to commit to a full-on red hair dye job, consider alternative options like highlights, lowlights, gloss, or toner.
| Red Hair Dye Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Semi-Permanent Dye | A temporary dye that lasts for 4-6 washes |
| Demi-Permanent Dye | A longer-lasting dye that lasts for 6-12 washes |
| Permanent Dye | A long-lasting dye that can last for several months |
By following these tips and considering your options carefully, you can achieve the red hair of your dreams and make a bold, eye-catching statement.
Can I put red hair dye over brown hair?
You can put red hair dye over brown hair, but the results may vary depending on the shade of brown and the type of red dye you use. If you have a light to medium brown hair color, you may be able to achieve a vibrant red color. However, if you have a darker brown hair color, the red dye may not show up as well.
To increase your chances of getting the desired results, it’s best to use a high-lift red hair dye or a bleach-based dye. These types of dyes are designed to lift the hair shaft and deposit color, resulting in a more vibrant red color. However, keep in mind that using bleach or high-lift dyes can be damaging to your hair, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions.
What happens when you put red hair dye over brown hair?
When you put red hair dye over brown hair, the dye will deposit color onto the hair shaft, but the results may not be what you expect. The brown pigment in your hair can affect the way the red dye looks, causing it to appear more orange or auburn than a vibrant red. This is because the brown pigment can neutralize some of the red tones, resulting in a less intense color.
To minimize the risk of unwanted results, it’s best to do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. This will give you an idea of how the dye will look on your hair and allow you to make any necessary adjustments. You can also consider using a toner to help achieve the desired shade of red.
How do I prepare my brown hair for red hair dye?
To prepare your brown hair for red hair dye, start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Then, towel-dry your hair and apply a pre-color treatment to help open up the hair cuticle and allow the dye to penetrate more evenly.
Next, apply the red hair dye to your hair, following the instructions carefully. Be sure to saturate your hair evenly and process the dye for the recommended amount of time. After rinsing out the dye, apply a moisturizing conditioner to help lock in the color and hydrate your hair.
What are the best red hair dyes for brown hair?
The best red hair dyes for brown hair are those that are specifically formulated to lift and deposit color onto darker hair. Look for dyes that contain ingredients such as ammonia, which helps to open up the hair cuticle and allow the dye to penetrate more evenly.
Some popular red hair dyes for brown hair include L’Oréal Professionnel DiaLight, Wella Professionals Koleston Perfect, and Joico Vero K-Pak Chrome. These dyes are available in a range of shades, from subtle auburn tones to vibrant fire engine reds.
Can I use semi-permanent red hair dye over brown hair?
Yes, you can use semi-permanent red hair dye over brown hair, but the results may not be as long-lasting as those achieved with permanent dye. Semi-permanent dyes deposit color onto the hair shaft without penetrating the cortex, resulting in a less intense color that fades faster.
Semi-permanent red hair dyes can be a good option if you want to add a temporary pop of color to your hair or if you’re looking for a low-maintenance way to maintain your color. However, keep in mind that semi-permanent dyes may not be as effective on darker brown hair, as the color may not show up as well.
How long does red hair dye last on brown hair?
The length of time that red hair dye lasts on brown hair depends on several factors, including the type of dye used, the condition of your hair, and how well you care for your hair. On average, permanent red hair dye can last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks, while semi-permanent dye may last for 2 to 4 weeks.
To extend the life of your red hair color, be sure to use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using hot water or heat styling tools too frequently. You can also consider getting regular touch-ups to maintain your color and prevent fading.
Can I go back to my natural brown hair color after using red hair dye?
Yes, you can go back to your natural brown hair color after using red hair dye, but it may take some time and effort. If you’ve used a permanent red hair dye, you may need to use a color corrector or a hair color remover to remove the red pigment from your hair.
If you’ve used a semi-permanent red hair dye, the color should fade on its own over time. However, if you want to speed up the process, you can try using a clarifying shampoo or a color-removing treatment. Keep in mind that it may take several washes or treatments to completely remove the red color and return to your natural brown hair color.