Black hair with red highlights may seem like a bold move, but it doesn’t have to scream for attention. It’s a combo that can do it all. Want something dramatic? Go cherry red or crimson. Prefer lowkey? Shades like auburn or wine tones look great. Let’s see the best red highlight ideas for black hair (both loud and subtle), plus some pro tips.
Does Black Hair with Red Highlights Look Good?`
You’re worried about how your black hair with red highlights is going to look? Don’t be!
If you ever felt that your black hair sometimes feels flat or heavy, doing red highlights can do wonders.
You’ll be surprised how red plays with the black. Bright reds pop for an edgy vibe, while deeper tones like burgundy or maroon give a sultry, rich finish. So it’s a color combo that definitely turns heads.
But don’t just take our word for it. Let’s see some real examples from our salon.
Ideas for Black Hair with Red Highlights
There’s more than one way to rock red highlights on black hair. From bold and high-contrast to soft and moody, the right shade can totally change your vibe. Below are some of the most popular (and flattering) ideas to inspire your next look.
Black Hair with Cherry Red Highlights
Cherry red is vibrant, punchy, and anything but shy. It works great if you’re looking for a bold and striking look.
Crimson Highlights for Rich, Bold Contrast
Crimson gives off deep, dramatic vibes. It’s brighter than burgundy but still has a richness that pairs well with black. Try it for a slightly daring look that doesn’t feel over-the-top.
Long Black Hair with Red Highlights That Are on Fire
This one’s loud, but in a good way. Fire red is bright, intense, and unapologetically bold. Best for confident personalities who want that instant wow effect.
Burgundy Highlights for a Sophisticated Twist
Burgundy is deep and smooth. It adds depth without being flashy. It looks like a red shade that is more mature. Great for a refined but slightly edgy look.
Auburn Highlights for a Soft, Natural Glow
Auburn blends red with brown, making it a softer, warmer option. If you want something noticeable but not too loud, this is a go-to. This combination works beautifully with warm skin tones.
Mahogany Highlights for a Moody, Luxe Feel
Mahogany is rich and velvety, with hints of red and purple. It adds a moody elegance to black hair, subtle but dimensional. Ideal for fall and winter color vibes.
Black Hair with Copper Red Highlights
Copper brings warmth and brightness. It’s perfect for adding a sun-kissed glow to black hair, especially if you want something fresh but not too bold.
Wine Red Highlights for a Bold Yet Classy Look
Wine red is rich and striking, but with a smooth, elegant finish. It’s bold enough to stand out against black hair, yet toned-down enough to stay classy. This shade gives off confident, cool energy.
Best Types of Red Highlights on Black Hair
Here are some tips for the best highlighting techniques:
Balayage Red Highlights for a Natural Fade
Balayage is all about a hand-painted, blended look. On black hair, red balayage creates a soft transition from dark roots to vibrant ends. It’s low-maintenance, grows out beautifully, and looks effortlessly chic. Ideal if you want dimension without a harsh line.
Chunky Face-Framing Highlights for a Bold Statement
Thicker red highlights around the face instantly brighten and define your features. On black hair, they stand out in the best way. Go for cherry or fire red to make a statement, or burgundy for something bold but more balanced.
Babylights or Fine Highlights All Over for Subtle Dimension
If you want a softer, more blended result, babylights are the way to go. These ultra-fine red strands scattered throughout black hair add a glow without loud streaks. Perfect for a low-key look that still has personality.
Ombre for a Dramatic Gradient
This style fades from black roots to red tips, making it super striking. Whether you choose crimson, wine, or copper, it creates a head-turning effect. Bonus: you keep your natural roots, which means less upkeep and more contrast.
Do Red Highlights Fade Faster?
Yes, red highlights do fade faster than most other colors. It’s not a myth.
There’s no set timeline for how fast red fades. Some people barely notice a change for weeks, while others see the color dull after just a few washes. It all depends on your hair type, how often you wash it, and what kind of products you use.
If you want to stretch out your red highlights, try to limit washing to two times a week. Use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo, and cool water when you rinse. Heat styling and sun exposure can also fade color faster, so protect your hair when you can.
For the best results and color upkeep, visit your salon every 3-4 weeks for a refresh. If you’re looking for a hair salon in Ridgewood to get red highlights on black hair that actually last, visit Artists and Architects Salon.
Final Thoughts
Whether you go bright and bold with fire red or keep it subtle with auburn or wine, the right shade brings depth, contrast, and personality to your look. And with techniques like balayage, chunky face-framing streaks, or ombre, you can tailor it to match your vibe and lifestyle.
