After nearly ten years of searching, Madison Reed is the only at-home red dye I’ve bought on repeat. The Radiant Hair Color Kit is the most straightforward, convenient hair dye I have ever used, mainly because everything I need for a seamless dye job—including the creme color, gloves, pre-measured color-activating developer, barrier cream, cleansing wipes, a disposable cap, and shampoo + conditioner—and thanks to my subscription, it arrives at my doorstep every month. Even more important than the tools, though, is the fact that the dye itself (in shade 7RC Carrera Crimson) gives me the most natural ginger hue, without the need to mix multiple dyes, which is usually the standard to get the most realistic red hue. People can hardly believe I’m not a natural redhead, and they’re even more amazed by the fact that I color my hair myself.
Best Permanent: Miss Clairol Liquicolor Soy 4 Plex
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Miss Clairol liquicolor soy 4 plex
- Pros: Offers 100% gray coverage, extremely conditioning, long-lasting permanent color
- Cons: If you haven’t mixed multiple colors before, you might want to ask for a stylist’s help
If you’re ready to fully commit to your redhead era, opt for this permanent hair dye. While fading is natural, especially with red hues, Clairol’s Liquicolor Soy 4 Plex is designed to stay in your hair for good. (Until your roots grow out.) Ian McCabe, master colorist and founder of Navy, a hair studio in Washington, DC recommends this professional-grade dye for a few reasons. First, he says it offers a “great range of red shades.” But even better than that, different colors can be mixed to create custom color combinations. He also notes that the liquid consistency “helps to easily spread the color through the hair,” so you use less product and get more even saturation.
Best Temporary: Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color
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Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color
- Pros: Extremely gentle; no-chemical smell; not permanent
- Cons: Very vibrant and doesn’t always look natural; takes a few weeks to fully wash out
