Is there a season that doesn’t suit a shade of red hair? In spring and summer, take it lighter for that fresh strawberry blonde, Nicole Kidman-esque vibe. Come autumn, shift that tone just a slight bit darker in what can only be described as an Isla Fisher worthy-inspired shade switch. And of course, as the temperatures totally plummet Julianne Moore becomes the absolute queen of glossy garnet inspo. See, what’d we say?! Red hair is the true all-rounder when it comes to hair colour.
So, we’ve got our muses (thanks Julianne), but trying to afford a colourist to achieve these red-haired dreams at the moment is on the trickier side. In other words, it’s time to turn to your second favourite hairdresser: yourself. We sincerely hope your magazine stash and head massaging skills are up to scratch.
So whether you’re already naturally blessed with flaming auburn locks and simply after a radiance refresh, or you’re down to make a dramatic change something akin to akin to Ariel from The Little Mermaid, we’ve rounded up the best at-home dye kits for red hair. They’re bound to help you on your DIY endeavour to take your strands any red shade from strawberry to scarlet.
Honestly, we think the colour (and of course, the gloves you’ll be wearing to apply) will look an absolute treat on you. So, let’s check out some of the best red hair dye options on the market…
2024’s Top 3 Red Hair Dyes
- Garnier Nutrisse in ‘Fiery Red’ , $16.99, Catch
- Clairol Nice’n Easy Repair in ‘Light Auburn’ , $15.99, Priceline
- L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss in ‘Amber’, $19.99, Priceline
Garnier
From $16.99 at Catch
This nourishing non-drip formula is enriched with grape seed and avocado oils to provide silky, shiny colour for up to eight weeks. Good thing it’s glossy; jewel-toned shades like garnet and ruby have gotta be gleaming.
Want to read more? Read Garnier Nutrisse Reviews here…
Key features:
- Enriched with avocado oil
- Offers deep nourishment (enriched with 5 natural oils)
- Works to provide stronger hair
Available at:
- $10.99 (usually $16.99) from Catch
- $17 from Woolworths
Clairol Nice’n Easy Repair in ‘Light Auburn’
From $15.99 at Priceline
Concerned your colour is causing damage? Fair. But don’t worry – this dye is loaded with ‘Repairaplex’, a strengthening solution that helps to prevent breakage, so your hair will be a stunning shade of autumnal auburn, and as healthy as ever.
Want to read more? Read Clairol Nice’n Easy Repair Reviews here…
Key features:
- Repairplex technology strengthens strands
- Formula features ME+ a molecule that protects against developing a hair dye allergy
- ColourSeal Conditioning Gloss works to boost shine
Available at:
L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss in ‘Amber’
From $19.99 at Priceline
Okay, back to classic cremes. This dye is enriched with royal jelly, so consider gloss its middle name; and if the luminosity factor isn’t enough to convince you, know that it’s also super long-lasting, staying put for up to 28 shampoos.
Want to read more? Read L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss Reviews here…
Key features:
- Infused with natural ingredients (royal jelly and goji berry)
- Ammonia free
- Lasts up to 28 shampoos
Available at:
- $11.99 (usually $19.99) from Priceline
- $17 from Big W
- $9.99 (usually $19.99) from Chemist Warehouse
Schwarzkopf Brilliance in ‘Red Passion’
From $22 at Healthy Life
If you’re feeling brave, burgundy locks are just about as gorgeous as it gets. This long-lasting cream dye contains a diamond gloss serum to leave hair looking ridiculously radiant.
Want to read more? Read Schwarzkopf Brilliance Reviews here…
Key features:
- Includes diamond gloss sealer for shine
- Intense colour lasts for 10 weeks
- Enriching keratin and apricot kernel oil
Available at:
- $15.40 (usually $22) from Healthy Life
- $13.20 (usually $22) from Priceline
- $10.99 (usually $22) from Chemist Warehouse
Revlon ® ColorSilk™ in ‘Medium Auburn’
From $9.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Looking for a rich red with golden undertones? Auburn is ideal. This formula delivers colour that lasts up to six weeks and features a clever UVA and UVB filter to prevent fading.
Want to read more? Read Revlon ® ColorSilk™ Reviews here…
Key features:
- Features 3D colour
- Enriched with silk amino acids
- UVA and UVB filter to protect strands from sun damage
Available at:
- $7.99 (usually $9.99) from Chemist Warehouse
COLOR & SOIN Permanent Hair Dye in ‘Terracotta Blonde’
From $19.95 at French Beauty Co
Enriched with a nourishing blend of oleo-complex, this vegetal extract permanent dye is ready to cover any greys the first time round. The mix of plant and essential oils work to protect and respect the structure of your strands, specifically designed to ensure your natural oils aren’t impacted by the dying process.
Want to read more? Read COLOR & SOIN Permanent Hair Dye Reviews here…
Key features:
- 100 per cent grey covered after first dye
- Made from pure pigments and enriched with natural ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Available at:
- $19.95 from French Beauty Co
- $19.95 from Color & Soin
Main Image Credit: Getty
Are you touching up your natural shade? Or will you make a giant auburn leap?
I like black hair.
Love a bold colour