This season, red hair is taking center stage. From modern copper to rich auburn, warm tones are redefining color trends as we move into winter and head toward 2026. Cooler months bring a natural shift toward depth, richness, and shine—making now the perfect time to embrace warmth and dimension in your hair color.
Whether you’re looking for a bold transformation or a subtle refresh, these red tones—paired with professional glossing and care—are poised to lead the next wave of color trends.
As temperatures drop and light softens, red hues come alive. Shades with warm undertones—like copper, auburn, and cherry—add contrast and radiance against winter’s muted palette. They flatter all skin tones, add vitality to layered styles, and bring instant brightness to cooler days. This shift toward warmth feels intentional, luxurious, and timeless. It’s a way to refresh your look and keep color luminous through the darker months.
Red Shades Defining 2026 Color Trends
Copper Glow
A refined take on classic copper. This shade delivers brightness and dimension without overpowering, making it ideal for those who want to enhance natural warmth with modern shine.
Auburn Luxe
A sophisticated mix of red and brunette that offers depth and richness. Auburn is endlessly wearable, polished, and transitions beautifully through winter and into spring.
Cherry Brown
This deep brunette with subtle red undertones creates a multidimensional, high-shine finish. It’s the perfect gateway shade for anyone exploring warmer tones for the first time.
Golden Ginger
A lighter red infused with golden warmth. Golden ginger strikes the balance between blonde and copper, ideal for keeping luminosity while embracing a cozier, seasonal feel.
Keep Red Radiant: Shades EQ + Acidic Color Gloss
Red tones are known for their vibrancy—but also for their tendency to fade. The key to long-lasting brilliance is professional color glossing and maintenance.
Redken Shades EQ Gloss
Shades EQ refreshes tone, enhances shine, and nourishes hair—all without permanent color commitment. It’s the stylist’s favorite for maintaining red hues between services and creating customized warmth and depth.
Redken Acidic Color Gloss Gloss-In Mask
Seal in your color and shine with Acidic Color Gloss Gloss-In Mask. This at-home glossing mask locks in vibrancy, adds shine and hydration in just 1-minute.
Together, they form the foundation for healthy, long-lasting red color that looks freshly glossed from season to season.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Red Hair Through Winter
- Use the Redken Acidic Color Gloss shampoo and conditioner system to help preserve tone and shine.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and avoid excessive hot styling to prevent color fade.
- Schedule a Shades EQ Gloss every 4–6 weeks to maintain tone balance and radiance.
- Always use a heat protectant before blow drying or styling with hot tools.
Red Hair for a New Year of Radiance
As we head into winter and 2026, red hair continues to define confidence, creativity, and warmth. From copper glow to auburn luxe, these shades prove that red is more than a trend—it’s a timeless expression of bold, luminous beauty. With professional glossing and care, your color will stay vibrant, glossy, and ready for the new season ahead.
