AF Blog — Wrath

Okay, let's talk about red hair highlights for a sec, they're literally the hair equivalent of that perfect filter that makes everything look better. We've been obsessed with this timeless technique forever, and for good reason! Highlights add dimension, brightness, and that effortless "I woke up like this" vibe that we're all chasing. Now, you might be thinking highlights are strictly a salon thing, but plot twist: you can totally achieve magazine-worthy results right from your bathroom (yes, really!).

And as if we couldn't already love this hair coloring technique enough, here comes red highlights to make our jaws drop even more. We're talking about that perfect pop of warmth that can transform your entire look from basic to absolutely stunning.

In this blog, we're going to break down different types of highlights, show you exactly how to achieve them at home, and spill all the tea on the best color pairings for red hair highlights. Trust us, your hair game is about to level up.

Different Types of Highlights

Classic Highlights

Classic highlights are all about brightening your overall look, adding lightness and dimension, and creating that gorgeous sun-kissed effect, and what better shade to do that than red? This is the perfect look for anyone who wants to add some spice in a more subtle and timeless way. Think effortlessly chic with just the right amount of drama.

How to get the look at home:

1. Use hair clips to section out the pieces of hair that you want to be colorful. Pro tip: Weave in and out while sectioning so you're dyeing different layers and adding extra dimension – this is what separates amateur hour from professional-looking results!

2. Use brushes to evenly dye the sections with your desired shade of red. Bright cherry, dark maroon, or fiery red with a hint of orange are a few of our favorite choices! Pro tip: Wear a designated dye shirt, apply petroleum jelly around your hairline, and wear protective gloves to prevent staining (trust us on this one – red dye has a mind of its own).

3. Leave it in for at least 30 minutes (but longer saturation time doesn't hurt!). For the best results, cover your hair with a plastic cap and use heat or blow dry for up to 15 minutes.

4. Rinse your hair in cold water until it runs as close to clear as possible.

5. Style as desired, pose for a picture, and share your new look with us!

@aveda.candance used Wrath and Frosé

Chunky Highlights

Ready to make a statement? Chunky red hair highlights add bold contrast with a serious pop of color. This look was super popular in the Y2K era and gives off fun, youthful, and rebellious energy that we're absolutely here for. This is also a great look for anyone who's more low-maintenance since it's easy to keep up with – win-win!

How to get the look at home:

1. Use hair clips to section out large chunks of hair that you want to pop! Pro tip: Lighten your highlight sections with bleach before going in with red for extra vibrancy – this step is a total game-changer for getting that intense color payoff.

2. Use brushes to evenly dye the sections with your desired shade of red. Bright cherry, dark maroon, or fiery red with a hint of orange are a few of our favorite choices! Pro tip: Wear a designated dye shirt, apply petroleum jelly around your hairline, and wear protective gloves to prevent staining.

3. Leave it in for at least 30 minutes (but longer saturation time doesn't hurt!). For the best results, cover your hair with a plastic cap and use heat or blow dry for up to 15 minutes.

4. Rinse your hair in cold water until it runs as close to clear as possible.

5. Style as desired, pose for a picture, and share your new look with us!

@jessss_wildandsavvy used Wrath

Color Pairings That Actually Work

Natural Hair Color

This is the most common and foolproof approach since all you have to deal with is one shade and leave the rest of your hair virgin. Whether you're brunette, blonde, or already rocking some natural red tones, red hair highlights blend beautifully with your base color for a look that's striking but never overwhelming.

@colored_byvee used Wrath and Poison

Vivid Hair Colors

Here's where things get really fun! Analogous shades (colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel) are the best choice when experimenting with blending vivid colors because if bleeding occurs, they won't turn muddy. With color theory in mind, some of our favorite vivid options to go with red highlights are pink, purple, orange, and yellow. These combinations create that rainbow effect that's perfect for anyone ready to fully embrace their colorful hair era.

@hairpaintedwithlove used Virgin Pink, Electric Paradise, and Wrath

FAQ

What kind of highlights should a redhead get?

Pink, orange, red, and yellow highlights look effortlessly amazing on redheads! These warm tones complement natural red hair beautifully and enhance your existing color story.

What to know before getting highlights?

Before getting highlights, we recommend knowing what kind of highlights you want (classic or chunky) and what shades you want them to be. Having a clear vision helps ensure you get the results you're dreaming of!

Is it hard to maintain red highlights?

Not necessarily! As long as you mix red hair highlights with your natural hair color or shades that go well with them, like pink or orange, you won't have to worry about bleeding and muddiness. Wash your hair with cold water and color-safe shampoo and conditioner to easily maintain your red highlights.

Do red highlights need bleach?

Yes, depending on your desired outcome and how vivid you want your red highlights to be, you will need to bleach first. We always recommend performing a strand test first to ensure you get your expected color!

Ready to Transform Your Look?

There you have it – everything you need to know about creating gorgeous red hair highlights that'll have everyone asking where you got your hair done! Whether you're going for subtle classic highlights or bold chunky statements, red is always a mood and never a mistake.

Now go forth and create some hair magic! Don't forget to tag us in your hair transformations and follow us online @arcticfoxhaircolor for more vivid hair tips and inspiration. We seriously live for seeing your colorful creations, so show us what you've got!

Oops! Did your purple hair experiment go a little too wild? Or maybe that gorgeous amethyst shade just isn't vibing with your current mood anymore? Don't panic, babe – we've all been there! 

Whether you're dealing with an accidental purple mishap or just ready for a fresh new look, your hair color besties at Arctic Fox have got your back. 

Let's dive into all the tried-and-true ways to say "bye-bye" to that purple and get you back to your dream shade!

Color Wheel Theory: The Science Behind the Magic

Here's where we get a little nerdy (but in a fun way!). 

Yellow and purple are total opposites on the color wheel – like that friend who's always arguing with you but somehow makes perfect sense. When these two colors meet, they literally cancel each other out!

Depending on how deep and dramatic your purple is, yellow hair dye can help tone it down, making it way more neutral or less in-your-face vibrant. 

If you're going for that natural, effortless vibe, consider a warm brown with golden or orangey undertones – it's like giving your purple a cozy hug that neutralizes it beautifully.

Other Game-Changing Options for Removing Purple Hair Dye

Clarifying Shampoo: Your New BFF

Think of clarifying shampoo as your hair's personal trainer – it works hard to fade that color over time! 

We're talking about washing your hair more often (yeah, we know, high maintenance life) with warm water to pull out as much color as possible. 

Just don't forget to follow up with a deep conditioner after each wash because nobody wants dry, straw-like hair. Your locks need that moisture love!

DIY Vitamin C Hair Mask: Kitchen Chemistry at Its Finest

Periwinkle toned to blonde

Got some stubborn purple that just won't quit? Time to raid your medicine cabinet! Here's how to make this color-lifting magic:

What you'll need:

• 15-20 colorless vitamin C tablets 

• 2-3 tablespoons of clarifying shampoo

• Warm water

How to work this magic:

1. Crush those vitamin C tablets into a fine powder

2. Mix with your clarifying shampoo and just enough warm water to make a paste

3. Apply to damp hair and let it sit for 30-60 minutes

4. Rinse thoroughly and condition like your hair's life depends on it

Why it works: Vitamin C is basically an acid that breaks down hair dye molecules. Science is cool, right?

Bleach Bath: Proceed with Caution, Queen

Bleach baths are like the gentler cousin of straight-up bleach, but they can still be a little spicy for your hair cuticles and in some cases cause color staining. 

Always, always do a strand test first and consult with our color experts – trust us on this one!

How to do a bleach bath:

1. Mix equal parts bleach powder, developer (20 or lower), and shampoo

2. Apply to towel-dried, damp hair, making sure it's evenly distributed

3. Process for 10-15 minutes, checking every 2-5 minutes (set those phone timers!)

4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then shampoo to get every last bit of bleach out

5. Follow up with a hydrating hair mask because your hair just went through it

Hair Color Remover: The Less Scary Option

Purple Madness fading to platinum blonde

This method is like the middle child – less risky than bleach but more effective than just shampooing. 

Hair color removers are specifically designed to break down dye, but make sure you're using the right one for your hair type (semi-permanent vs. permanent makes a difference!). 

Always follow those instructions like they're gospel, and don't skip the hydrating serum afterward.

Follow the Color Wheel to Cover Purple: The Safe Route

Sometimes the easiest solution is the best one! If you want to avoid damage and aren't married to a specific color, just go darker or play with neighboring shades. 

Black will completely cover purple, while blues and reds can help you transition to something totally new. 

This is hands down the safest, least damaging, and most user-friendly way to move on from your purple hair phase.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

What cancels out purple hair color? 

Yellow and golden tones are your heroes here! Try Arctic Fox's semi-permanent bright yellow hair dye Cosmic Sunshine, for that perfect color-canceling magic.

What is the best way to remove purple hair dye?

For less damage, frequent washing with warm water and clarifying shampoo is recommended. For speed, color remover or bleach baths are recommended (but be careful and consult our color experts!).

What color covers purple? 

Blue hair dye, red hair dye, and black hair dye are your best friends for covering purple completely.

You've Got This!

There you have it, gorgeous – all the insider secrets to conquering your purple hair situation! Whether you're going the gentle route or need something more dramatic, you now have a whole toolkit of options. 

Remember, hair is just hair, and it's always growing and changing just like you are.

Ready for your next hair adventure? Follow us online @arcticfoxhaircolor for more hair color tips, inspiration, and all the colorful content your feed needs. 

We're always here cheering you on through every hair transformation! 💜✨

Ever looked in the mirror and thought, "Whoa, my blonde is looking more like a traffic cone"? Don't panic! 

Brassy orange tones happen to the best of us, especially after bleaching or when blonde hair color starts to fade. The good news? You've got options that don't involve hiding under a hat for weeks.

Understanding the Color Wheel: Why Blue Neutralizes Orange

Remember that color wheel from art class? It's about to save your hair!

Blue and orange are directly opposite each other, which makes them complementary colors and total besties when it comes to color correction. 

Here's why this matters for your hair: When these opposite colors meet, they cancel each other out! So when your blonde has gone all orange and you're freaking out, reaching for a blue toner isn't just random—it's color theory magic! The blue pigments swoop in and neutralize orange hair, leaving you with the cool, balanced color you actually wanted. 

This is exactly why we all need purple shampoo for yellow tones and blue products for those orange nightmares. Once you get this color wheel trick, you'll never panic over brassiness again!

The Magic of Color Theory: Periwinkle to the Rescue!

Before and after using Periwinkle to tone brassy orange hair

Blue sits opposite orange on the color wheel, which means it neutralizes those warm, brassy tones. 

This is why Arctic Fox's Periwinkle is your new BFF for toning orange hair.

Simply dilute Periwinkle with conditioner (the ratio depends on how intense your orange is) and apply it to dry hair. This creates a gentle, blue-based toner that cancels out the orange without compromising your hair's health. It's like a cool-toned hug for your stressed-out strands!

Apple Cider Vinegar: Your Kitchen Cabinet Savior

When you need a quick fix with what you have on hand, reach for that bottle of ACV! A diluted apple cider vinegar rinse can help remove mineral buildup that contributes to brassiness while balancing your hair's pH.

Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water, apply it to your hair after shampooing, let it sit for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Your hair will not only look less brassy but will also feel softer and shinier. Win-win!

When All Else Fails: Embrace the Dark Side

If your orange tones are particularly stubborn, sometimes the best solution is to cover them up entirely with a darker shade. Think of it as a hair reset button! Some of our favorite Arctic Fox shades for covering orange hair include:

Wrath: A deep, vibrant red that transforms brassiness into intentional fire-engine fabulousness

Purple AF: A striking violet that makes orange disappear like magic

Transylvania: The ultimate deep black that gives you a fresh start with a dramatic edge

FAQ: Your Orange Hair Questions, Answered!

What color cancels out brassy orange hair?

Blue as it sits directly opposite orange on the color wheel, meaning it neutralizes the warm orange tones; therefore, a blue-based dye like Periwinkle is a great option for toning brassy orange hair.

How to get rid of orange brassy hair at home?

The best way to get rid of brassy toned hair at home is to use the above methods like tone your hair with our pastel blue semi-permanent hair dye in the shade Periwinkle, use a DIY apple cider vinegar rinse, or simply cover the brassy orange tones with a darker hair color like red, purple, or black.

How long should I leave the toner on to get rid of orange?

If you are using our Periwinkle semi-permanent hair dye as a toner, we recommend leaving it on for at least 15-30 minutes. However, you can leave it on even longer if you'd like since there are no harsh chemicals in any of our dyes.

Orange You Glad You Read This?

Don't let brassiness bring you down! With these simple solutions, you can kick orange tones to the curb and get back to loving your locks. 

Whether you choose the gentle approach with Periwinkle toner, the natural route with apple cider vinegar, or decide to transform completely with a new color, your hair journey is in your hands. 

Remember, even bad hair days are just opportunities for great hair transformations! Make sure to follow us on all socials @arcticfoxhaircolor for more hair tips and inspo.

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 [email protected] 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! 🦊✨

Red hair color makes a statement—bold, vibrant, and effortlessly cool. 

Whether you’re drawn to fiery copper, vivid red, or deep, sultry burgundy, Arctic Fox has the perfect shade to match your vibe. 

Check out our top 5 red hair colors and get ready to turn heads.✨

Warm Reds 🔥

Vivid Red 

Looking to turn up the heat? Look no further than our boldest, truest red hair dye. Poison is a fiery shade with an orange undertone that keeps it from fading pink. 

Turn up the heat to max level when you use Poison on a platinum blonde base, and enjoy a warm fiery tint to dark locks. 

Dark Auburn 

Mix Sunset Orange with a drop of Purple AF for a deep auburn glow on a level 5 dark brown base. This shade enhances warm undertones and makes green or hazel eyes pop with a rich, autumn-inspired depth.

Cool Reds ❄️

Red Violet 

This gorgeous, jewel-toned shade leaves behind a vibey velvet tint on dark bases, and a rich burgundy on level 7 and up. Ritual is THAT girl when it comes to nailing red-violet, dark cherry hair.

Cherry

If you’re looking for a vibrant, playful red hair color that’s full of energy, Wrath is your color of choice! 

On hair levels 7 and up you’ll see its most vibrant hue, while dark bases will see a dark, dimensional tint. 

Pair it with sleek, edgy hairstyles like a high ponytail or messy waves, and accessorize with silver jewelry for a chic touch.

Burgundy 

For a sultry, wine-inspired red, mix 60% Virgin Pink with 40% Wrath on a level 5 dark brown base. 

With its deep, berry-toned finish, this shade is perfect for the effortlessly cool trendsetter—the one who turns heads without even trying. It’s bold yet sophisticated, giving off major “it-girl” energy.

FAQ / PRO TIPS 💡

How long does red hair last? 

Since Arctic Fox is a semi-permanent dye the colors typically last 2-8 weeks. Longevity depends on your base color, hair health, and routine. Wash with cold water and sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to keep it vibrant longer.

Can I get these shades on unbleached hair? 

Darker bases can effortlessly pull off shades like burgundy and dark auburn with Ritual and Wrath, but if you're craving those vibrant reds and fiery coppers, pre-lightening to a level 8-10 is key. Luckily, Arctic Fox Hair Color’s Bleach Please collection makes the process gentle and effective!

How do I keep my red hair looking fresh? 

Red tends to fade faster than other colors, so mix a little dye into your conditioner, minimize heat styling, and limit washes to lock in that fiery glow.

It’s Your Time to Go Red!❤️

From fiery coppers to rich burgundies, Arctic Fox has the perfect red hair color shade for every vibe. Our dyes are vegan, cruelty-free, and packed with hair-loving ingredients for color that cares. 

Try these custom blends and tag us in your transformation @arcticfoxhaircolor we can’t wait to see you slay that red!