AF Blog — Pro Tips

Ready to switch up your fiery red locks? We get it! While that vibrant crimson hue may have been exactly what you wanted a few weeks ago, sometimes you're just ready for a change. 

Let's dive into some tried-and-true methods to help you bid farewell to your red tresses without sacrificing the health of your hair.✨

The Gentlest Option: Wash More Frequently 🧼

Poison fading

Shampoo is your bestie! Up your wash days to gradually break down red pigment over multiple washes. Red dye molecules are larger than other colors, which makes them both long-lasting and eventually easier to wash out as they start to break down.

Use warm water (not hot!) and our Resurrected Shampoo to gently encourage those pigments to release their grip. If you need some extra strength, add a clarifying shampoo to your routine once or twice a week.

PRO TIP: Use Money Hunny as a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and happy during this process. More frequent washing can be drying, so this step is crucial!

Next Best Thing: Vitamin C Hair Mask☀️

Ritual fading

For a bit more fading power without harsh chemicals, try this DIY vitamin C treatment:

1. Mix colorless vitamin C powder or crushed vitamin C tablets with your shampoo to create a paste

2. Apply to damp hair (not soaking wet)

3. Leave on for 30-60 minutes

4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water

The acidic properties of vitamin C help break down artificial color molecules while being gentler than chemical removers.

PRO TIP: Follow up with a deep conditioning hair mask like Pool Party to re-hydrate your locks! This treatment can be slightly drying, so showing your hair some extra love afterward is essential.

Last Resort: Bleach Bath🛁

Wrath fading

When gentler methods aren't cutting it, a bleach bath can help lift that stubborn red dye color. This diluted bleach method is less harsh than full bleaching but still effective:

1. Combine 1 part bleach powder, 2 parts developer (20 volume or lower), and 2 parts shampoo to create a paste

2. Apply to damp hair

3. Leave on for 5-20 minutes (check frequently!)

4. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a deep conditioner

PRO TIP: Use our White Powder Bleach for a colorless formula that allows you to easily monitor your lifting process. The transparent mix helps you see exactly when those red tones start to lift!

Frequently Asked Questions💭

Is red hair dye hard to get out?

Red hair can be a blessing and a curse because it lasts a long time on one hand, but on the other, once you're ready to switch gears, it can be a little stubborn to remove. This is especially true for permanent red dyes, which penetrate the hair shaft and chemically alter the structure, making them significantly more difficult to remove than semi-permanent red dyes that only coat the hair's outer layer and gradually wash out over 4-12 weeks.

Luckily, there are several ways to remove red hair dye such as washing more frequently, using a DIY vitamin C hair mask, or doing a bleach bath. The approach you choose should depend on whether you're dealing with semi-permanent or permanent color, as permanent formulas typically require more intensive removal methods. Please reach out to our color specialists via email at support@arcticfoxusa.com for personalized assistance!

How can I remove red hair color without damaging my hair?

Your gentlest options are frequent washing with warm water and Resurrected shampoo or trying the vitamin C mask method. Both of these approaches gradually fade the color without harsh chemicals. You can also check out our previous blog on the best colors to cover red if you're looking to transition rather than remove it completely!

Can I use bleach to remove red hair dye?

Yes, the bleach bath method mentioned above is effective, but always do a strand test before proceeding with your whole head. 

Remember that bleach will always cause some level of damage, so use with caution, follow all instructions carefully, and never leave it on longer than recommended.

How do I tone out stubborn red tones in my hair?

Use a cool-toned shade like Periwinkle mixed with Arctic Mist Diluter to neutralize leftover red tones. The blue-purple pigments in Periwinkle will help cancel out any lingering warmth.

Ready For Your Next Color Adventure?🎨

Remember, hair color removal is a journey—sometimes it takes multiple sessions to achieve your desired result. Be patient with your locks and give them lots of TLC between treatments!

Ready for inspiration for your next hue? Follow us @arcticfoxhaircolor for endless color combinations, styling tips, and transformation stories that'll have you planning your next hair adventure before this one's even complete!

So, you've been rocking that fierce red hair but feeling ready to switch things up? We totally get it and we're here to help you navigate your next hair color adventure! 

Whether you're looking to tone down your current shade or make a bold change, let's dive into the world of coloring over red hair.

Color Theory 101: Your BFF for Hair Color Success

Before we jump into specific shades, let's have a quick chat about color theory (we promise to keep it fun!). Picture the color wheel as your personal hair color GPS. 

Here's the tea:

- Colors that are besties (right next to each other on the wheel) will give you the smoothest transition. Think red to purple or red to orange - they're practically meant to be!

- Colors that are across from each other on the wheel (complementary colors) can be a bit tricky. They cancel each other out, which sounds cool but might leave you with an unexpected muddy shade. Not exactly the vibe we're going for!

How to Tone Down Red Hair Dye: Colors That Neutralize Red

Purple💜

Since purple is red's next-door neighbor on the color wheel, it creates one of the smoothest color transitions possible. 

When you apply Purple AF over faded red hair, you'll get a gorgeously deep purple shade that can range from rich royal purple to a multi-dimensional, sunset-inspired blend. 

The purple pigments work with your existing red hair color to create depth and movement in your hair, rather than fighting against it. 

This harmonious color relationship means you'll get more predictable, vibrant results than if you tried to go with a hair color that's further from red on the wheel.

Blue💙

While Poseidon over red hair is one of our more challenging color transitions, it can create some seriously stunning results with the right preparation! 

Since blue and red are further apart on the color wheel, you'll want to fade your red hair color first to give Poseidon the best chance to shine. 

When you apply Poseidon over red, you might notice some gorgeous purple undertones emerging as the two colors interact - think of it as getting two amazing shades in one! 

This combination can create a unique, multidimensional color that shifts between deep blue and rich purple hair dye tones, giving you a totally mesmerizing mermaid-worthy look.

Orange🧡

Sunset Orange is your perfect match for a seamless hair color evolution! Since orange and red are right next to each other on the color wheel, Sunset Orange melts beautifully into red hair, creating a fiery glow that looks incredibly natural. 

When applied over red hair color, it adds warmth and brightness, transforming your existing shade into a trendy copper tone. 

The result is a dimensional, sun-kissed look that appears to glow from within - perfect for anyone wanting to keep their hair in the red family while adding that extra pop of warmth and vibrancy.

FAQ & Pro Tips for Color Success

Is it possible to cover red hair with another color?

Yes! Purple, orange, and blue are ideal shades for covering red. Before making any color change, remember that everyone's hair journey is unique. Your current shade, previous colors, and hair porosity will all affect how your new color transforms. That's why we ALWAYS recommend doing a strand test first to get a sneak peek of how your hair will react to its new shade!

How can I prep my red hair for another color?

Start by using a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup and help fade your current color to a lighter base. Between clarifying sessions, make sure to give your hair plenty of love with deep conditioning treatments to keep your strands healthy and happy. And before you commit to your full hair transformation, always do a strand test to ensure you'll get the results you're dreaming of!

Can you dye red hair brown?

Yes, you can dye red hair brown! Using Arctic Fox Hair Color, mix 98% Ginger Flare with 2% Transylvania for a stunning dark natural warm brown hair color. This combination works beautifully since adding dark pigment to red hair is an effective color transition. Results will vary depending on the shade of red hair color you’re starting with, please reach out to our color specialists via email at support@arcticfoxusa.com for personalized assistance!

Will black hair dye cover red hair color?

Black hair dye like Transylvania will effectively cover red hair color, making it one of the most reliable options for concealing vibrant reds. Since black is the darkest shade, it contains maximum pigment to overpower existing color. However, be aware that depending on the intensity of your red, some warm undertones might still show through in certain lighting. Remember that going black is a commitment, transitioning away from black later will be a challenge!

Ready to Transform Your Red?

There you have it, color lovers! Whether you're leaning towards purple, blue, or orange, you've got options for your next hair color adventure. Remember, your hair journey is unique, and we're here to support you every step of the way! 

Tag us in your transformation pics @arcticfoxhaircolor we can't wait to see what you create! 🦊✨

@Sophiaxnova_ in Purple AF

Dyeing your hair with vivids can feel like a bold move, but trust us, it doesn’t have to be intimidating! If you dream of vibrant locks but want something beginner-friendly and low-maintenance, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our favorite shades that are perfect for any skill level and stay stunning with minimal effort.💕

Purple AF 💜

Looking for a color that’s bold but easygoing? Purple AF is your new bestie. This deep, cool-toned purple works on all hair levels, from platinum blonde to dark brown. Purple AF’s highly pigmented formula means the color will stick around longer so you don’t have to touch up your color as often. It fades gracefully into a lavender shade on lighter hair and a muted purple on darker tones, no awkward in-between stage here! 🔮

Wrath 🔥

This juicy red is a fan favorite for a good reason! Wrath delivers a deep, ruby hue that’s striking on any hair color. This shade is a deep red with berry undertones which can become more pink as it gradually fades. It shows up well on brassy tones and gives dark, dimensional tints to darker hair. This shade is most vivid on hair pre-lightened to a level 7 or lighter.🍒❤️

Sunset Orange 🌇

Bring the golden hour to your hair 24/7 with Sunset Orange! This shade is a fiery, deep red-orange that looks captivating on light and dark hair. Brassy tones won’t cause any problems for this color, if anything they will make it even brighter. The red undertones of Sunset Orange may come through stronger on light bases around a level 9 or 10. This highly pigmented shade takes a while to fade but once it does, it turns into soft peach tones that are just as dreamy.🍊🧡

Virgin Pink 🌸

If pink is your thing, Virgin Pink is a must-try! This playful magenta pops beautifully on lighter hair while giving darker hair a stunning berry tint. As it fades, it transitions to a softer, pastel pink that’s equally charming. While this shade is eye-catching on every base, it looks brightest on a level 7 or higher.🌹💕

Aquamarine 🌊

Channel mermaid vibes with Aquamarine, a vivid blue with teal undertones that’s absolutely mesmerizing. Light hair gets a vibrant blue turquoise, while darker bases show off a teal ocean blue tint. This gorgeous jewel tone stays vibrant for a long time but when it does eventually fade, it transforms into a dreamy seafoam green. For vibrant results, apply Aquamarine to level 10 platinum blonde hair.🫧💙

Tips for Keeping Your Vivid Color Fresh ✨

Rinse with cold water: It helps seal the hair cuticle to lock in color and prevent bleeding and fading.🧊

Extend time between washes: Dry shampoo is your BFF!💨

Style smart: Braids and buns are not only cute but also color-safe.🎀

Use the right products: Stick to sulfate- and alcohol-free hair care to keep your color vibrant.🧴

What Are You Waiting For? 🎨

Grab your favorite easy-to-maintain shade from arcticfoxhaircolor.com and get ready to fall in love with your vivid hair. Make sure to tag us on socials @arcticfoxhaircolor for a chance to be featured, we can’t wait to see your colorful creations! 💕

@sxneadbailey in Sunset Orange

Ready to dive into the world of blue hair? Whether you’re aiming for deep ocean vibes or a soft pastel dream, Arctic Fox has got you covered! Blue hair is bold, vibrant, and oh-so-fun—but it can also be a bit tricky to maintain. Don’t worry, though, we’ve got all the tips and tricks to make sure your blue locks look fresh, stunning, and totally Insta-worthy. Let’s break it down! 🌊✨

Blue FAQ 🤔

How do I avoid turning green?

If you don’t want your blue turning green, make sure you start with a clean, blonde base. Avoid using too much yellow or green undertone hair dye underneath your blue. Keeping your hair a cool blonde or soft pastel helps keep your blue from leaning into green.

Is blue impossible to remove or cover?

Not true! Blue fades into beautiful pastel shades, so it’s actually one of the easiest colors to transition from. If you want to change things up, simply let it fade out with more frequent washing in warm water. If that doesn’t work try making a hair mask with shampoo and Vitamin C to draw out color, just be sure to hydrate your hair after!

What colors are best to use when shifting away from blue?

No matter what color you’re shifting from the color wheel is your best friend. Generally, you want to avoid complimentary colors as they cancel each other out and might turn muddy. The easiest colors that can be used to cover blue are purple and green since they are right next to blue on the color wheel. Check out our blog on using the color wheel for more details!

Maintenance Tips for Blue Hair 💆‍♀️

Maintaining your gorgeous blue hair doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some of our best tips for keeping your color fresh and vibrant:

• Protect Your Skin: Use gloves and a little Vaseline around your hairline and neckline to avoid staining your skin when applying dye. Trust us, you’ll be thanking us later!🧴🧤

• Cold Water Rinse: After you’ve applied the color, rinse your hair with cold water. This helps seal the color in and minimize fading. (Pro tip!) For your first rinse, try using a kitchen sink instead of the bathtub or shower to avoid any stubborn stains.👌

• Go Easy on Shampooing: Wash your hair less often to prevent fading and rely on dry shampoo to keep your hair fresh between washes.✨

• Color-Safe Products: Always use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos and conditioners like Resurrected to help preserve your beautiful blue hue. 💦

AF Blues Breakdown: Which Shade Is Right for You? 💙

Here’s the Arctic Fox lowdown on our most popular blue shades:

Dark Blues

Get ready to dive into the deep end with Arctic Fox’s dark blue shades—perfect for level 5 hair or higher! Blue Jean Baby is your go-to for that classic, deep denim vibe, fading into a smoky blue that’s effortlessly cool on any base. Sorceress brings all the magic with a dark, mystical blue packed with purple undertones—she fades into a dreamy silvery lavender, popping on blondes and adding a subtle tint to brunettes. For all the navy lovers, Caitlyn serves up a rich, cool-toned blue-black that’s as bold as it is mysterious, slaying on light and dark hair alike. 🌌🔮👖

Left to right: Blue Jean Baby, Caitlyn, Sorceress

Medium Blues

Make waves with Arctic Fox’s medium blue shades, best for level 7 hair or higher! Aquamarine is your ultimate turquoise fantasy, giving you bright beachy vibes that fade into a dreamy pastel blue. 🌊🫧 Poseidon takes ocean blue to the next level—bold, vibrant, and long-lasting, fading into a stunning turquoise over time. 🐬🐚 And for a pop of playful color, Jinx is a punchy, vibrant blue with just the right hint of teal to keep things fresh. 🌀💫

Left to right: Aquamarine, Jinx, Poseidon

Pastel Blues

Dream big with Arctic Fox’s pastel blue shades, perfect for level 10 hair! Cotton Candy Dreams is exactly what it sounds like—dreamy, vibrant, and oh-so-sweet. It fades into a soft minty blue that pops beautifully on platinum blonde hair. ☁️💎 Periwinkle is your go-to for a soft pastel blue with playful purple undertones, giving you a light, whimsical vibe that’s perfect for a platinum base. 💙🪩

Left: Cotton Candy Dreams Right: Periwinkle

@ashlee___smith Used Ritual and Virgin Pink to cover Aquamarine

@charliewakeman in Aquamarine and Phantom Green

What colors can I pair with blue?

Blue pairs beautifully with purples, pinks, and greens. Couple your blue with vibrant shades like Arctic Fox’s Purple AF, Space Cowgirl, or Virgin Pink for a bold look.

@asapashleeyy used Purple AF and Periwinkle

@hairwaytoheavennn used Space Cowgirl, Cosmic Sunshine, and Aquamarine

@John.n1115 used Poseidon, Virgin Pink, and Arctic Mist Diluter

Time to Go Blue🦋

There you have it, Fox Fam! Whether you’re trying out your first shade of blue or you're already a seasoned pro, Arctic Fox has everything you need to keep your blue hair looking fabulous. Remember to have fun with it, mix things up, and embrace all the bold, beautiful shades of blue!💎💙🐬

2025 is here and Pantone just dropped their Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse! ☕🤎 This warm, earthy shade has us dreaming of cozy mornings with a cup of coffee, soft sweaters, and of course, stunning hair transformations.😏 So, grab your dye bowls and brushes because we’re breaking down how to achieve and SLAY this trend using Arctic Fox Hair Color. Let’s make this the year of rich, mocha vibes.🍫✨

What is Mocha Mousse?🤔

Mocha Mousse is the ultimate blend of soft brown and warm undertones, creating a shade that is luxurious and grounding.✨ Think creamy coffee tones mixed with a hint of golden warmth—it’s a hue that radiates coziness and sophistication. Perfect for starting a new chapter in 2025, Mocha Mousse gives off relaxed yet confident energy. It’s earthy, approachable, and pairs beautifully with the neutral and metallic trends we’re seeing everywhere. This shade is also incredibly versatile. Whether you want a full-on monochromatic look or add a contrasting color to your usual bold locks, Mocha Mousse vibes with any aesthetic.😌🧸

Getting Pantone’s Color of the Year with Arctic Fox🤎

Ready to make Mocha Mousse your go-to shade? Here’s how you can create this dreamy color using Arctic Fox Hair Color’s vegan and cruelty-free dyes:

1. Start with a Light Base: If your hair is darker than a medium brown, we recommend lightening it to a level 6 or 7 for the Mocha Mousse tones to really pop. Use our Bleach, Please collection for a gentle, effective lift. 🌟
2. Mix Your Perfect Shade: To nail the Mocha Mousse look, mix 90% Arctic Mist Diluter, 8% Sunset Orange and 2% Phantom Green. For deeper tones, add a splash of Wrath or Ritual to bring out those rich coffee vibes.🧋 
3. Application Time: Apply the mixture evenly from root to tip, ensuring every strand is coated. Let it process for 30-45 minutes for that vibrant, long-lasting color we’re known for.😉
4. Rinse and Reveal: Rinse with cold water to lock in your color and get ready to live your Mocha Mousse fantasy.🤩🌰

Check out this article in our FAQ for more tips on hair color application!

Keep Your Mocha Mousse Fresh AF💫

Once you’ve achieved your perfect Mocha Mousse look, you’ll want to keep it looking fresh and fabulous! Here’s how:

• Wash Smart: Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, like our Resurrected Shampoo and Conditioner set, to keep your color vibrant for as long as possible.🫧
• Cold Water Rinse: Always rinse with cold water to seal the hair cuticle and prevent fading.💧
• Deep Condition: Hydration is key! Treat your hair weekly with a moisturizing mask like Pool Party to keep it soft and shiny.✨
• Wash Less Often: Keep your Mocha Mousse shade around longer by extending the time between wash days with Dry Shampoo and cute hairstyles.​​👩🏽

Nail the Trend (Literally!) 💅

Want to go all in on the Mocha Mousse vibe? Pair your hair with matching nails! Think glossy mocha, matte taupe, or even some gold accents for a chic, cohesive look. Luckily for you, we have perfect and effortless gel nail kits to complete your look. Your hair and nails will be serving the ultimate “main character energy” this year.😌🤎

Fox Fam Inspo 🐾

Our Fox Fam has already been rocking some incredible mocha-inspired looks! Check out these stunning transformations to inspire your own:

Don’t forget to tag us in your Mocha Mousse creations on Instagram and TikTok using @arcticfoxhaircolor for a chance to be featured!

New Year, New Hue🍪🤎🧸

Mocha Mousse is more than just a color; it’s a vibe. It’s about embracing warmth, confidence, and creativity as we step into 2025. With Arctic Fox Hair Color, you can make this trend your own while staying true to your unique style. So, grab your dyes, flex your creativity, and let’s make 2025 the year of bold, beautiful transformations. Cheers to a colorful new year, Fox Fam!🥂