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Get Vibrant

Ask Rona: I’m a Natural Redhead, But I Want a More Vibrant Red

Updated: May 25th, 2023

QUESTION: Hi there! I’m a natural redhead, but I’d like to go a little deeper red. I’m thinking nothing permanent, as I love being able to say, “yes – it’s natural!” Any recommendations on red enhancing shampoos? Or experience with a semi permanent? I’m thinking something along the line of my favorite Mad Men actress, Christina Hendricks. Many thanks! -Randi

ANSWER: By: Rona O’Conner: Hi Randi, 
You can most definitely try something safe that will fade off within 3-5 weeks.

You have two options:

1. Use a semi-permanent glosses such as ‘Elumen’ by Goldwell or ‘Cellophanes’ by Sebastian.  I would use a few drops of golden copper the first time, so that you can see how you like the results. Not only will you get a little color enhancement, but an amazing amount of shine.  It’s best to start with clear and add a little tone with glosses until you’re familiar with them and how they fade.

2. Color depositing shampoo and conditioners can give you temporary results, but can build up color when used repeatedly.

If you are looking for an alternative to color-depositing shampoo, look no further:

Finally Glossy® Shine & Luminosity Shampoo for Redheads

It took many years to custom-make the Finally Glossy® formula and we’re so excited for redheads to enjoy it. We’re thrilled to release another clean redhead beauty product. It is paraben-free, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, petroleum-free, mineral-oil, and vegan. It also contains no perfume, is free of gluten and is silicone-free, phthalate-free, formaldehyde-free and cocamidopropyl betaine-free. This clean formula is formulated with Vitamin B3, olive oil, coconut oil and green tea.

redhead shampoo

SHOP FINALLY GLOSSY NOW

READ MORE: TIPS FOR VIBRANT RED HAIR

Confident Lifestyle

The Mythology of the Redhead

There have been numerous studies performed, conclusions drawn and things written regarding the health and physiology of the ‘redhead’.

READ: 10 Famous Myths about Redheads Debunked

1. Redheads are more susceptible to plain.

2. On the flip side, it has been said that redheads have a higher tolerance for pain.

3. Redhead patients ‘bleed’ more during operations.

4. Redheads bruise easier and take longer to heal.

5. People with red hair are more sensitive to ultraviolet rays, burn easier and have a higher frequency of skin cancer.

6. Redheads are less tolerant of the heat and cold.

7. Many redheads have sensitive skin.

8. People with red hair are more likely to suffer from an autoimmune disorder.

9. Red hair is a genetic mutation.

Which one is true for you?!

Skin

8 Tips For Cleansing Your Redhead Skin

Updated: May 2020

For redheads with sensitive skin, cleansing is a must because it helps the skin get rid of old skin cells, dirt and grime and makeup. It also helps in blood circulation and prepares the skin to receive the nutrients and lipids applied after it.

It is often assumed that cleansing the face is the most basic task which anyone and everyone can do, but there are actually basic steps that some people miss. Here are some rules to give your redhead skincare routine an extra boost.

1. Twice a day

Cleansing your face twice a day, in the morning and night, is recommended and anything more can strip the skin of its essential natural oils.

2. The right cleanser for your skin

Buy a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type. Avoid using soaps on the face because they can make the facial skin rough and damaged. If you use a too-rich cleanser, it can clog the pores. And, if you use a too-dry cleanser, it can irritate the skin. Most redheads with sensitive skin should opt for cleansers that are gentle, fragrance-free and non-irritating.

 

 

3. Use tepid water

Hot water can dry the skin and cause damage and cold water does not dissolve and take away dirt and grime. Tepid water is just right!

4. Keep clean

Before cleansing the face, wash your hands properly to get rid of any dirt or grime.

5. Start early

Start the cleansing process early by splashing some water on the face and neck first.

6. Rub in circles

Put the face cleanser on the fingertips or on a konjac sponge and use gentle upward circular strokes to apply the cleanser on the face and neck. Avoid scrubbing too much.

7. Be gentle

Pat (don’t wipe) off the excess water on your face with a clean towel. Never drag the towel on the skin or scrub dry.

8. Continue on with your skincare routine

After cleansing the face, follow it with your serum, eye cream, moisturizer, face oil and of course, sunscreen.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Subscribe to the H2BAR Box: A monthly and quarterly beauty subscription box for redheads! Use code: REDHAIR for 10% off. Subscribe now! 

 

Win it

GIVEAWAY: Revive Your Red Hair, Hosted By Pureology

We’re so excited about Pureology’s new hair care line for redheads, “Reviving Red.” This ultimate redhead line has been tested on a natural and “by choice” redhead for 10 days and has been deemed “redhead friendly” for its exceptional, unique quality.

Natural redheads are frequently asking, “How can I keep my red hair naturally vibrant without dying it?” And redheads “by choice,” are always wanting to know how they can take less trips to the salon. There are a few color depositing shampoo brands and one or two hair products that claim to cater to redheads (but let’s admit it, they don’t do the best job) and so, we end up buying products suited for blondes or brunettes.

Then,  Pureology’s “Reviving Red” haircare system was invented and we’re proud to say that it is the best redhead hair care line to ever hit the market.

“Reviving Red” is the first-oil based colour care product line that revives the vibrancy of red and copper colour treated hair. And, the best part, it works wonders for natural redheads, too!

READ MORE ABOUT “REVIVING RED.”

This ultimate product line hits stores in February, but we’re giving away 3 “Reviving Red” systems to 3 lucky winners!

ENTER BELOW AND YOU MAY WIN PUREOLOGY’S “REVIVING RED” HAIR CARE LINE:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Makeup

Spring Beauty: How To Get A Metallic-Copper Smokey Eye

One of the hottest makeup trends for spring is a metallic, smokey eye using copper shades. This look is perfect for redheads because the copper not only “plays up” ginger locks, but it also is a perfect hue to compliment ivory skin tones!

Here are step by step instructions on how to get the metallic-copper smokey eye:

1. Start by brushing a bit of translucent powder over eyelids to neutralize any uneven skin tones and help to set the shadow.

2. Optional: A rich brown liner used to define the bottom lash line will soften the look and make your eyes appear very wide.

3. Apply M.A.C. eyeshadow in ‘Hot Paprika’ on waterline and on entire lid.

4. Smudge and soften the edges using smudging brush.

5. Set the ‘Hot Paprika’ eyeshadow with M.A.C. ‘Coppering.’

6. Soften the edges in the crease using a blending brush.

7. Apply M.A.C. pigment in ‘Copper Sparkle.’

8. Apply extra black mascara to lashes and a black liquid liner at the edges of the top lash line for  flirty, cat eye definition.

As spring approaches, it’s time to update your makeup palettes and the copper trend is guaranteed gorgeous on all redheads.

Get ready for the compliments and Rock it like a Redhead! 

Makeup

Olive Skinned Redheads: A Makeup Guide For Your Unique Hair and Skin Combination

Updated: August 18, 2022. By Guest Writer: Carmina Alvarez

Most natural redhead girls with Latin roots have golden and olive tones in their skin. Because of this unique combination, makeup advice is also different. Here’s a little guide to complement your red hair and skin tone based on your shade of red hair:

1. GINGER HAIR: 

For

FOUNDATION & CONCEALER: It is suggested you olive-skinned redheads opt for yellow and peach-based foundations and concealers.

BLUSH: Choose coral and peachy blushes.

HIGHLIGHTER: Golden toned skin looks best with a champagne tone highlighter, applied just above the cheekbone.

EYESHADOW: Rich eyeshadow colors like olive green and violet will make your eyes pop.

LIP COLOR: Go for fuschia, coral and peach tones.

BRONZER: Choose pink tones to add a little warmth to your skin.

2. AUBURN HAIR: 

For

FOUNDATION & CONCEALER: You need a golden toned foundation and a peach toned concealer.

BLUSH: Apply a rosy pink blush only on the apple of the cheeks.

HIGHLIGHTER: Also use a golden toned highlighter just above the cheekbone, near the eye area.

EYES SHADOW: Your skin tone is super versatile, so you can pull off a large range of shades from pastels and deep rich colors to metallic eye shadows. Go bold!

LIP COLOR: Olive skin redheads can pull off almost every lipstick color, but I suggest you opt for a orangy-red lipstick, even nude lipstick.

BRONZER: If you like to use bronzer, pick a brownish-orange tone to add definition and warmth to your face.

3. DEEP RED 

For

FOUNDATION & CONCEALER: A caramel tone foundation blends perfectly to your skin color and a dark peach concealer that’s almost  “orangy toned” blends well with bronzed skin. Do not choose pink or yellow toned concealers.

BLUSH: Choose a brick red blush and apply it to the apple of your cheeks.

HIGHLIGHTER: Use a golden toned highlighter just above the cheekbone, near the eye area.

EYE SHADOW: Copper, navy and green eyeshadows are your perfect colors! Do not choose red colors or else it will clash with your hair.

LIP COLOR: Soft pink, brick red and plum lipsticks are ideal for you, but always remember to pair strong lipstick colors with subtle eye makeup.

BRONZER: Select a brownish red tone to add a little warmth.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Hair

Accessorize Your Red Hair

By: Rachel Moffett

Let’s face it, we redheads are busy ladies!  Sometimes we don’t have much time in the morning to do our hair. While we do have gorgeous red locks that look amazing no matter what, adding a single hair accessory can be a quick and easy way to complete your look.

Here is some easy advice the next time you’re in a pinch and running out the door:

1. Slip on a headband. When it comes to styling your hair, it doesn’t get much easier than a headband.  And with emerald being Pantone’s color of 2013, the Deepa Gurnani Emerald Stone Applique Headband is on trend and it’ll look perfect with your red tresses.

READ: REDHEADS REJOICE: EMERALD GREEN IS NAMED THE COLOR OF THE YEAR

2. Spice up a ponytail!  A ponytail can be a lifesaver on bad hair days or when you haven’t had time to shower.  Instead of using a plain hair tie, why not try something a bit more stylish?  The Multitude Hair Ties from Anthropologie come in a variety of colors, even in glitter!  And the Marc by Marc Jacobs Jeweled Curb Pony Tie Set will glam up your pony with just a little bling.

3. Clip it!  Instead of plain bobby pins that match your hair, go bold with something a little more fancy like the Spangled Bobby Pin Set from Anthropologie.  Or you can really make a statement with their Florabead Clip.  It’s sure to attract attention.

How do you accessorize your red hair? Rock it like a Redhead

Hair

ASK RONA: I wish for the days when I would wake up with my natural red hair!

QUESTION: Hi Girls! I have every single redhead cliche and am truly a redhead inside and out. I am 50 and my natural red hair has turned to white; but I can’t imagine not being a redhead, so I color my hair to attain a vibrant color. I am having trouble because I buy permanent color and still have to touch up the roots every other week and the color always washes out, regardless of the brand. I spend a fortune on color and periodically go to my local salon to get my hair dyed red.

At this point, I am completely stumped.

Am I doing something wrong? Is this process normal? What are the best over-the-counter brands for redheads?

Everyday I wish for the days when I would wake up with my natural red hair and wish I could get some comfort from dying my hair red! Help! -Kelly

ANSWER: Rona O’Conner Hi Kelly, Your problems are common, so don’t feel hopeless. Luckily, there are many solutions! It sounds like your hair has a lot of white and may also be resistant. Hair that is very grey or white needs a color specifically designed for white hair so that the color absorbs properly and lasts. Resistant grey hair is also going to create tougher absorption, so if the formula isn’t correct for your hair type, the hair may only absorb half the color and fade quickly.

Also, keep in mind that most over-the-counter color products do not last as long as a professional hair color would.

Here are some solutions:

1. Only use shampoo and conditioner that designed for color treated hair. Goldwell has a great color shampoo and conditioner that is also sulfate-free called “True Color” in their DualSenses Green line. Pureology is also releasing an exciting hair care line for redheads in February 2013 called “Reviving Red.” Get more information here.

2. Look for a hair colorist who specializes in red hair color. Call a salon near you and ask for a complimentary color consultation. A professional will help you to determine the problems you’re having and help you get the results you are wanting.

If you’d like a bit more info,  tune in on February 20th at 7AM EST for the Balancing Act on Lifetime TV where I am on speaking about the do’s and don’ts of hair color.

 

Carmina Alvarez

Fancy Summer Makeup Tips

By: Carmina Alvarez

Summer is here and redheads love to look their best for important events! Think your hair makes a statement? Make an even bigger statement with eye-catching makeup.

Here are tips for the eyes, lips and face that will make you look extra fancy this summer:

Get Vibrant

BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR RED HAIR WITH REVIVING RED™

Natural redheads are always wondering, “How can I keep my red hair naturally vibrant without dying it?” And redheads “by choice,” are frequently wanting to know how they can take less trips to the salon. There are a few color depositing shampoos on the market and one or two hair products that claim to cater to redheads, but there has never been a product to hit the market like Pureology’s “Reviving Red” haircare system.

Reviving Red is the first-oil based colour care product line that revives the vibrancy of red and copper colour treated hair. And, the best part, it works wonders for natural redheads, too!

This ultimate redhead line has been tested on a natural and “by choice” redhead for 10 days and has been deemed “redhead friendly,” but it truly deserves a round of applause for its exceptional quality.

The Reviving Red system includes:

1. REVIVING RED SHAMP’ OIL:  The unique oil delivery system penetrates deep into the hair fiber to drastically replenish hair and seal the cuticle.

2. REVIVING RED CONDITION: It detangles and helps restore the fiber

3. REVIVING RED ILLUMINATING CARE OIL: Noticeably increases vibrancy and shine of red or copper shades.

How to use: Apply a small amount of Reviving Red Oil in palm and work through clean, dry or damp hair.

4. REVIVING RED RED REFLECT ENHANCER or REVIVING RED COPPER REFLECT ENHANCER:  If you’re a true red or copper color red, you have the choice of which enhancer works better for your color. It is a colour-depositing conditioning treatment that replenishes and infuses hair with red or copper tones (great for between salon visits!).

How to use: Use 1-2 times a week and use gloves. For natural redheads, use a dime size and work through hair, leave on for 10 minutes and rinse. For redheads ‘by choice,’ it is recommended that you work one tube through damp hair from root to tip. Leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing.

The system, like all Pureology products, are 100% vegan. The Reviving Red color system is made with incredible benefits like, Lycopene extract which is a powerful antioxidant that is found in tomatoes and other vegetables; Fair Trade Jaljala Oil and has zero sulfates!

Did we mention that the best part about this hair care system is the product itself is Red! Inside and out, the Reviving Red hair hair system was made for every type of redhead.

Pureoloy’s Reviving Red is a true must for your Red life and can be found at salons worldwide.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Confident Lifestyle

Don’t Sweat Your Style

By: Natasha Holler 

While you physically feel great after a workout, you might not feel as fresh as you’d like… and redheads everywhere know that our post-workout red-faced look is not our most becoming. Of course we’d all love to have the time to cool down, shower, and dress to impress to tackle what else the day might bring, but most times we’re squeezing in our workouts over lunch breaks or before dinner dates. So how do you keep it fresh while keeping up your fitness routine?

Remember to toss these necessities in your gym bag before you hit the treadmill:

1. Body and facial cleansing wipes are a must when you don’t have the time or the means to rinse off your post-workout sweat. Make sure you’re using facial wipes that are right for your skin – there are many different hydrating, blemish fighting, and makeup removing options available… find what works best for you and won’t irritate a redhead’s perfect porcelain skin. There are even more options for the total body cleansing wipes that will help you feel like you’ve just stepped out of the shower. A great pick is The Body Shop‘s “Tea Tree” Cleansing Wipes.

2. Keep your skin glowing – moisturize! If you’ve got a tried and true moisturize you love, make sure it finds its way into your gym bag for each workout. If you’re looking to condense the amount of lotions, lip balms, and facial moisturizers for an easy and portable options, try an all-over body balm like Revolution Organics All Over Body Balm. The product is all natural and can be used on the whole body, from head to toe! These moisturizing multitaskers can be used from your lips to your cuticles, or from your elbows to your eyebrows… any spot that needs quenched or tamed can be tackled by these time savers. And, as every redhead should know, don’t forget the sunscreen.

3. You should avoid applying heavy makeup right after a workout, but that’s not always an option. If you must apply, leave the brushes behind and stick with a tinted moisturizer, your favorite lip gloss, and your trusty mascara. You can rock that post-workout glow – don’t hide under layers of blush and concealer! Your pores will thank you.

READ: GET YOUR GLAM ON QUICK

4. One thing you shouldn’t rock is funky feet, so make sure you’ve packed a separate pair of workout socks, and you give your toes some attention afterward. Whether you use regular baking soda or a specialized foot spray or powder, look for a product that attacks bacteria, which can live in warm damp areas and will not cause less-than-fresh feet.

5. Of course, we can’t ignore our defining asset – make sure you mind your luscious crimson locks! When you won’t have time to wash, twist your hair into a bun and secure with pins during your workout to prevent sweaty strands. When you’ve finished your workout, let your hair down and remember – a dry shampoo can do wonders, and your style will look fresh and new. Try: Blow Pro Faux Dry Dry Shampoo. You can even spray in some hair freshening products to neutralize or revitalize your post-treadmill tresses.

With just a few simple steps for your post-gym beauty regime, you’ll be ready to rock it like a redhead after your workout, prepared to tackle the rest of your day – even sans shower!