By Red tones often appear in hair as a result of fading color, bleaching, or underlying warm pigments that naturally show through darker dyes. These red hues can make your brown hair appear brassy or uneven. To neutralize red tones, you need to select the right shade of brown that balances warmth with cool or neutral undertones.
Why Red Tones Show Through Brown Hair Dye
When lightening or coloring hair, natural pigment molecules are exposed. Most hair contains red and orange undertones beneath the surface. If your hair has been previously lightened, these pigments can resurface after dye fades, especially when using warm or golden-based browns. The key is using an ash, cool, or neutral brown dye that cancels out red hues rather than enhancing them.
The Color Theory Behind Neutralizing Red Tones
Color correction is rooted in the color wheel. Since green and blue shades are opposite red on the wheel, dyes with cool, ashy, or green undertones can counteract unwanted warmth.
- Green-based browns neutralize bright red tones.
- Ash browns (with blue-gray undertones) soften brassy warmth.
- Neutral browns provide balanced coverage without leaning too warm or cool.
Choosing the Right Shade of Brown to Cover Red
The best shade depends on your current hair color and desired result:
- Light to Medium Brown Hair: Choose a cool ash brown to cancel soft red or copper hues.
- Dark Brown Hair: Go for a neutral or dark chocolate brown for rich, even coverage.
- Very Red or Warm Hair: Use a green-based dark ash brown to neutralize deep red tones effectively.
Top 10 Best Brown Hair Dyes to Cover Red Tones
1. L’Oréal Paris Excellence Cool Dark Ash Brown
Formulated with a cool base, this dye neutralizes red and orange tones while adding shine and dimension. Ideal for medium to dark hair.
2. Clairol Nice ‘n Easy Natural Medium Ash Brown
A gentle, ammonia-free formula that cools red undertones and enhances natural brunette shades with soft highlights.
3. Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color – Dark Ash Brown (30)
A budget-friendly choice that deeply covers red tones with its 3D Color Gel Technology, leaving hair shiny and nourished.
4. Wella Color Charm Liquid Hair Color – 4A/5A Ash Brown Series
Salon-grade formula perfect for neutralizing intense warmth and providing long-lasting, fade-resistant color.
5. Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Coverage – Iced Coffee Brown (5.15)
Infused with avocado and olive oil, this shade blends seamlessly over stubborn red tones, leaving a natural, cool result.
6. John Frieda Precision Foam Colour – Cool Espresso Brown
The foam formula ensures even application and tone correction for previously dyed or red-tinted hair.
7. Schwarzkopf Keratin Color – Espresso 4.0
Offers 100% gray coverage while effectively balancing red and orange hues for a sleek, dark brown finish.
8. Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit – Pisa Brown (6NA)
A salon-quality, cruelty-free option enriched with argan oil and ginseng root for radiant color without brassiness.
9. L’Oréal Paris Feria – Smokey Brown
Perfect for those wanting multidimensional tone, it blends cool undertones to neutralize unwanted warmth.
10. Redken Shades EQ – 5NA or 6T
A demi-permanent professional toner ideal for refreshing faded dye and toning down red or copper hues between color sessions.
How to Apply Brown Hair Dye to Neutralize Red Tones
- Pre-Treat Hair: Wash hair 24 hours before coloring to allow natural oils to protect your scalp.
- Mix the Dye: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Apply Evenly: Start from roots to ends, ensuring even saturation, especially on red-prone areas.
- Wait & Rinse: Allow it to process for the recommended time, then rinse with cool water to lock in color.
- Condition: Always use the post-color conditioner to seal the cuticle and add shine.
Toners and Glosses for Extra Red Neutralization
If stubborn red tones persist after dyeing, a blue or green-based toner can help. Products like Wella Color Charm Toner (T14 or T18) or Matrix Total Results Brass Off shampoo work well for maintaining cool tones. Glosses, such as dpHUE Cool Brunette Gloss, can be used weekly to enhance the cool brown finish and extend the dye’s life.
Natural Alternatives for Neutralizing Red Tones
If you prefer chemical-free options, try these home remedies:
- Coffee Rinse: Deepens brown color naturally and tones down red hues.
- Black Tea or Walnut Shell Powder: Adds rich, cool pigments for natural neutralization.
- Apple Cider Vinegar & Blue Food Coloring: A DIY toner alternative for mild red tint correction.
Hair Care Tips to Prevent Red Tones from Returning
- Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Harsh detergents strip pigment, revealing warm tones.
- Rinse with Cool Water: Hot water opens hair cuticles, causing faster color fading.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Excessive heat oxidizes dye and brings out red undertones.
- Use Color-Depositing Products: Maintain tone with cool-brown conditioners.
- Protect from Sun Exposure: UV rays can fade dye and reveal red pigments underneath.
Professional Tips for Long-Lasting Results
- Ask Your Colorist: Professionals can mix customized green or ash tones to perfectly match your base.
- Opt for Demi-Permanent Dyes: They fade gradually and deposit pigment without damaging hair.
- Gloss Every 4–6 Weeks: Refreshing gloss treatments help lock in a cool tone.
- Avoid Overlapping Color: Only reapply to new growth to prevent color buildup.
Conclusion
Covering red tones in brown hair is all about choosing the right undertone and maintaining it correctly. Cool and ash browns are your best allies in canceling warmth while giving your hair a rich, glossy, and natural finish. Whether you prefer at-home kits or salon formulas, consistency in aftercare will ensure your brown color stays fresh, deep, and free of brassiness.
FAQs
1. What shade of brown covers red tones best?
Ash brown or cool brown shades are best because their blue-green undertones neutralize red pigments.
2. Can I tone red hair to brown without dyeing?
Yes, using a blue or green toner or color-depositing shampoo can shift red hair toward a cooler brown temporarily.
3. Why does my brown dye always fade red?
Because the natural pigment of your hair contains red molecules that resurface as the dye fades. Using cool-toned shampoos can help.
4. How often should I recolor to maintain cool brown hair?
Typically every 4–6 weeks, depending on hair growth and how fast the dye fades.
5. Is ash brown hair dye damaging?
Most modern formulas are conditioning and ammonia-free, so they’re safe when used as directed. Always follow with hydrating treatments.
Also read: Permanent Hair Dye vs Semi-Permanent: What’s the Difference?
