Imagine staring into the mirror, trying to decide which highlight shade will elevate your reddish brown hair without looking fake or dull. I’ve tested dozens of products, and nothing beats the way a well-placed highlight can add depth and vibrancy. When I used the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish, I noticed how the three-tone highlight technology enhanced my natural highs and lows, making my color look richer and more natural. Its oil-infused formula also made my hair feel smoother and stronger after coloring.
Honestly, it strikes the perfect balance between ease of use and professional results. While other options like Feria B61 Downtown Brown deliver shimmering, bold shades, they often require more frequent touch-ups and can feel less natural. The L’Oréal Couleur Experte at-home dual system provides quick highlights but lacks the depth that the Clairol offering excels at. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown for a seamless, natural-looking result that lasts.
Top Recommendation: Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because its three-tone highlights mimic natural depth, making the color look authentic. The oil-infused formula smooths hair, boosting color uptake and durability. Compared to Feria or L’Oréal’s quick kits, it offers a more natural finish with long-lasting vibrancy and better gray coverage, making it ideal for reddish-brown hair that needs that perfect, subtle glow.
Best color highlights for reddish brown hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish – Best balayage highlights for reddish brown hair
- L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Color Kit – Best subtle highlights for reddish brown hair
- L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and – Best Value
- Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 8R Medium Reddish – Best highlights for brunette hair with red tones
Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish
- ✓ Natural-looking multi-dimensional color
- ✓ Easy application with smooth formula
- ✓ Excellent gray coverage
- ✕ Color may fade over time
- ✕ Slightly strong chemical smell
| Color Shade | 5RB Medium Reddish Brown |
| Type of Color | Permanent hair dye |
| Gray Coverage | 100% |
| Color Technique | 3 tones and highlights for natural highs and lows |
| Formulation | Oil-infused formula for smoother hair and better color uptake |
| Additional Treatment | Revitashine Intense Treatment for strengthened bonds and long-lasting color |
What immediately catches your eye with the Clairol Nice’n Easy 5RB Medium Reddish Brown is how effortlessly it blends into your natural hair color, giving a subtle yet vibrant boost. Unlike some dyes that can look stark or fake, this one offers a rich, multi-dimensional finish that feels like your hair’s own glow.
The oil-infused formula is a game-changer. It glides smoothly through your hair, making the application process surprisingly easy.
You’ll notice how soft and manageable your hair feels during and after coloring. Plus, the three-tone highlight approach really adds depth, creating that natural sun-kissed look that’s perfect for reddish-brown shades.
One thing I appreciated is how well it covers gray hair — completely and evenly. The color develops evenly without patchiness, and the end result looks genuinely authentic.
The long-lasting color stays vibrant for weeks, and the Revitashine treatment is a nice bonus for keeping your hair healthy and shiny.
Handling the dye was straightforward, and the scent wasn’t overwhelming, which is often a concern with permanent dyes. The kit includes everything I needed, and the instructions are clear enough for a smooth process, even if you’re a beginner.
Overall, it’s a fuss-free way to achieve a natural, glossy reddish-brown look that doesn’t feel overdone.
L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Color Kit
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Natural, multi-tonal highlights
- ✓ Keeps hair strong and vibrant
- ✕ Less intense on very dark hair
- ✕ Might need multiple applications
| Color Type | Permanent multi-faceted hair dye with shimmering highlights |
| Color Range | Over 50 shades including black, platinum blonde, smoky silver, and reddish brown |
| Highlights | 3X highlights for intensified, multi-tonal results |
| Hair Care Benefits | Includes Bonding Care Complex Conditioner for up to 40% stronger hair |
| Application Type | At-home permanent hair coloring kit with no appointment required |
| Additional Features | Vegan formula, inspired by fashion trends, suitable for gray coverage and creative color styles |
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to add subtle highlights to reddish-brown hair and ending up with uneven, dull streaks that fade quickly. I remember the first time I used the L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown kit—it instantly changed my perspective.
The packaging feels sturdy, and the tube of color is easy to squeeze out without waste.
Applying the color was straightforward thanks to clear instructions and a smooth, creamy formula that spread evenly. I especially appreciated the multi-faceted highlights; they gave my hair a rich, shimmering dimension that looked natural yet striking.
The 3X highlights really delivered on that brilliant, multi-tonal finish, perfect for adding depth and vibrancy to reddish-brown shades.
The conditioner included made a noticeable difference. My hair felt softer and stronger after use, and I could see the color staying vibrant longer than with other dyes I’ve tried.
The scent isn’t overwhelming, which is a huge plus during application.
What I love most is how versatile this kit is—no salon appointment needed, and I got professional-looking results in less than an hour. Plus, it’s vegan and inspired by the latest trends, so I feel good about using it.
The only downside is that the shade may not be as intense on very dark hair, so you might need a second application for a bolder effect.
Overall, if you want subtle, shimmering highlights that won’t fade fast and add a touch of edginess, this kit is a real winner. It’s a great way to refresh your look without the expense of going to a salon every few months.
L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step Home Hair Color and
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Quick results
- ✓ Natural-looking highlights
- ✕ Better for lighter hair
- ✕ Limited shade options
| Color Types | Permanent base color with harmonizing highlights |
| Application Time | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Color Range | Includes shades from bold to subtle, temporary to permanent, dark to light |
| Kit Components | Dual-system with base color and highlights in one box |
| Suitable For | Reddish brown hair with options for all-over color and highlights |
| Formulation | Cream-based hair dye with integrated highlighting system |
Many people assume that achieving professional-looking highlights at home is a complicated, time-consuming process. But with the L’Oreal Paris Couleur Experte 2-Step kit, I found that’s a misconception.
The dual-system packaging cleverly combines permanent base color with highlights, making the whole process surprisingly straightforward.
The kit’s design is user-friendly, with clearly labeled steps and an easy-to-follow guide. I appreciated how the shades are perfectly coordinated, so I didn’t have to guess which colors would blend well.
The color mix is smooth, and I could see how evenly the highlights distributed, thanks to the included applicator brush.
During application, I was impressed by how quick it was—just about 30 minutes from start to finish. The product’s formula felt gentle on my hair, with no overpowering chemical smell.
The final result was a beautiful, rich reddish-brown with subtle, natural-looking highlights that added depth and dimension.
One thing I really liked was how versatile the shades are, catering to a range of hair tones from bold to subtle. Plus, the salon-like finish means you don’t need to visit a stylist for an upgrade.
It’s perfect for anyone wanting quick, gorgeous highlights without the salon price or hassle.
That said, the kit works best on hair that’s already fairly light or medium. Darker shades might need pre-lightening for the highlights to really pop.
Still, overall, I found it a smart choice for easy, gorgeous color upgrades at home.
Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 8R Medium Reddish
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Natural-looking highlights
- ✓ Nourishing, oil-infused formula
- ✕ Can be messy
- ✕ Intense color for subtle looks
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye |
| Shade | 8R Medium Reddish Blonde |
| Color Coverage | 100% gray coverage |
| Color Technique | 3-tone highlights for natural highs and lows |
| Formulation | Oil-infused cream for better color uptake and smoothing |
| Additional Treatments | Revitashine Intense Treatment for strengthened hair bonds and long-lasting color |
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to get natural-looking highlights in reddish brown hair without ending up with a brassy mess or uneven color. I remember struggling with dull, flat color that just didn’t pop the way I wanted.
That was until I tried Clairol Nice’n Easy 8R Medium Reddish Blonde.
This dye comes with a rich, oil-infused formula that feels smooth and almost silky as you apply it. It spreads easily, which means less mess and more even coverage.
The three-tone highlight system really makes a difference—it adds depth and dimension, mimicking natural sun-kissed highlights.
Once you rinse it out, your hair feels soft and shiny, thanks to the Revitashine Intense Treatment included in the kit. I noticed my hair looked healthier, with a lovely reddish hue that wasn’t too overpowering.
The color held up well over several weeks, with minimal fading or brassiness.
Applying the color was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions. The kit has everything you need—gloves, cream, activator, and the treatment.
It’s perfect for at-home use if you want professional-looking results without the salon price.
If you’re after a natural, vibrant reddish-brown with highlights that add dimension, this product really delivers. Plus, it covers 100% gray effortlessly, which is a big bonus for those of us with mixed hair.
The only downside? The color might be a bit intense if you prefer a softer, more subtle look.
Also, the oil formula can be a little messy if you’re not careful during application.
What Highlights Best Complement Reddish Brown Hair?
- Honey Blonde: Honey blonde highlights add a warm, golden dimension to reddish brown hair, which can create a beautiful contrast that brightens the overall appearance. The warm tones of honey blonde blend seamlessly with reddish hues, providing a sun-kissed effect that feels both natural and vibrant.
- Auburn: Auburn highlights are a fantastic choice for those with reddish brown hair, as they can enhance the existing tones and add depth. This shade deepens the overall color while maintaining a harmonious blend, giving the hair a multi-dimensional look that is both striking and sophisticated.
- Caramel: Caramel highlights introduce a rich, warm glow that complements the reddish tones beautifully. This color not only adds brightness but also creates a soft transition that enhances movement and texture in the hair, making it appear fuller and more lively.
- Chestnut: Chestnut highlights work well with reddish brown hair by providing a subtle contrast that enriches the overall color palette. This shade can add a sophisticated dimension without overpowering the natural warmth of reddish brown, making it a great choice for a more understated yet elegant look.
- Golden Blonde: Golden blonde highlights can create a striking contrast against reddish brown hair, enhancing its richness and vibrancy. The warm undertones of golden blonde help to reflect light beautifully, adding brightness and a touch of glamour to the hairstyle.
- Soft Copper: Soft copper highlights can amplify the warmth of reddish brown hair, giving it an eye-catching glow. This color brings out the fiery undertones in the hair, making it appear more dynamic and lively, perfect for those who want a bolder yet harmonious look.
Which Shades Are Most Flattering for Highlighting Reddish Brown Hair?
The best color highlights for reddish brown hair can enhance its natural warmth and depth.
- Honey Blonde: This warm, golden shade complements reddish brown hair beautifully, adding a sun-kissed effect. The honey tones enhance the natural richness of the base color while providing a soft contrast that brightens the overall look.
- Copper: A vibrant copper highlight can create a stunning effect against reddish brown hair, intensifying the warm hues. This option works particularly well for those looking to create a bold and dynamic appearance, making the hair look more alive and radiant.
- Auburn: Deep auburn highlights can add dimension to reddish brown hair, emphasizing its natural color. This tone blends seamlessly with existing shades, creating a rich, multi-dimensional look that is both sophisticated and striking.
- Caramel: Caramel highlights introduce a warm, creamy color that contrasts nicely with reddish brown hair. This shade provides a soft, natural look that enhances the overall warmth of the hair while adding a touch of brightness and richness.
- Chestnut: A rich chestnut highlight can deepen the overall color while providing a subtle contrast. This shade adds depth and enhances the natural brown tones in reddish brown hair, resulting in a luxurious and polished appearance.
- Strawberry Blonde: This light, warm blonde with a hint of pink undertones can create a fresh and vibrant look. Strawberry blonde highlights work well to brighten reddish brown hair while maintaining a cohesive warm palette that feels playful yet sophisticated.
How Do Warm Highlights Enhance Reddish Brown Hair?
- Golden Blonde Highlights: These highlights provide a beautiful contrast to reddish brown hair, creating a sun-kissed effect. The warmth of golden blonde enhances the natural undertones of the reddish hues, making the hair appear more luminous and rich.
- Copper Highlights: Copper highlights can amplify the reddish tones while adding a fiery sparkle to the hair. This color blends seamlessly with reddish brown, giving it a striking and dynamic appearance that catches the light beautifully.
- Caramel Highlights: Caramel highlights introduce a rich, warm glow that complements the depth of reddish brown hair. This shade softens the overall look and adds warmth, making the hair appear healthier and more vibrant.
- Chestnut Highlights: Chestnut highlights work harmoniously with reddish brown hair by adding subtle variations in tone. This rich brown shade enhances the base color without overwhelming it, providing a sophisticated and polished finish.
- Strawberry Blonde Highlights: Strawberry blonde highlights bring a playful touch to reddish brown hair, infusing it with a soft, rosy glow. This lighter shade contrasts beautifully with the deeper tones, offering a fresh and youthful look.
What Cool Highlights Provide a Striking Contrast to Reddish Brown Hair?
The best color highlights that provide a striking contrast to reddish brown hair include:
- Caramel Highlights: These warm, golden tones add depth and dimension to reddish brown hair, enhancing its richness. Caramel highlights can create a beautiful sun-kissed effect, making the hair appear more vibrant and lively.
- Platinum Blonde Highlights: For a bold contrast, platinum blonde highlights can make reddish brown hair pop dramatically. This combination creates a striking visual effect, drawing attention to the hair’s texture and movement.
- Ash Blonde Highlights: The cool undertones of ash blonde highlights provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of reddish brown hair. This pairing can tone down overly warm hues, resulting in a balanced and sophisticated look.
- Deep Burgundy Highlights: Deep burgundy highlights can seamlessly blend with reddish brown hair, creating a multi-dimensional effect. The rich, dark tones complement the base color while adding an extra layer of intrigue and depth.
- Golden Blonde Highlights: Golden blonde highlights infuse a soft brightness into reddish brown hair, offering a warm yet contrasting effect. This color adds a luminous quality, enhancing the overall warmth without overpowering the natural tones.
- Honey Blonde Highlights: Honey blonde highlights add a soft, warm glow that enhances the natural red tones in reddish brown hair. This combination creates a harmonious blend that is both striking and natural-looking, ideal for a sunlit effect.
What Highlighting Techniques Work Best for Reddish Brown Hair?
The best color highlights for reddish brown hair can enhance its richness and dimension.
- Caramel Highlights: Caramel highlights add warmth and depth to reddish brown hair, creating a beautiful contrast that complements the natural tones. These highlights can be applied in a balayage style or as subtle streaks, providing a sun-kissed look that brightens the overall appearance.
- Copper Highlights: Copper highlights can intensify the reddish hues in brown hair, resulting in a vibrant and fiery look. This shade works particularly well for those with warm undertones, as it harmonizes perfectly with the base color, enhancing the richness without clashing.
- Chestnut Highlights: Chestnut highlights introduce a deeper brown tone that adds richness and dimension to reddish brown hair. This option is excellent for creating a more natural look, as it blends seamlessly with the base color while still providing visual interest and depth.
- Golden Blonde Highlights: Golden blonde highlights can create a stunning contrast against reddish brown hair, offering a bright and lively touch. This combination can lighten the overall appearance and bring out the warm undertones, making the hair look more vibrant and youthful.
- Mahogany Highlights: Mahogany highlights provide a rich, deep red tone that can enhance the existing reddish hues in brown hair. This bold color choice adds drama and sophistication, making it perfect for those looking to make a statement with their hair color.
Which Popular Highlighting Techniques Should You Consider?
The best color highlights for reddish brown hair can enhance its depth and vibrancy through various highlighting techniques:
- Balayage: This technique involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair, creating a natural, sun-kissed effect. The gradual transition of color adds dimension to reddish brown hair, allowing for a soft blend that complements its rich tones.
- Foil Highlights: Traditional foil highlights involve wrapping sections of hair in foil with a lightening agent applied. This method provides more contrast and brightness, making reddish brown hair pop, especially when using shades of caramel or golden blonde.
- Babylights: Babylights are ultra-fine highlights that mimic the subtle, natural highlights seen in children’s hair. This technique works beautifully with reddish brown hair, adding a delicate touch of light that enhances the overall color without overwhelming it.
- Ombre: Ombre features a gradient effect where the hair transitions from a darker base to lighter ends. For reddish brown hair, a warm caramel or honey blonde at the tips can create a stunning visual effect while maintaining the richness of the original shade.
- Chunky Highlights: This bold technique involves applying thicker sections of lighter color to create a striking contrast. For reddish brown hair, incorporating bold blonde or copper chunks can create a vibrant, edgy look that stands out.
How Can You Maintain Highlighted Reddish Brown Hair?
Maintaining highlighted reddish brown hair involves various techniques and products to keep the color vibrant and healthy.
- Color-Safe Shampoo: Using a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo is crucial for preventing color fade and maintaining the richness of reddish brown highlights. These shampoos are formulated to be gentle on colored hair, helping to preserve the vibrancy and prevent premature fading.
- Deep Conditioning Treatment: Regular deep conditioning treatments can help restore moisture and improve the overall health of your hair. Reddish brown hair can become dry and brittle, so using a hydrating mask or treatment once a week can maintain shine and softness.
- Heat Protection Products: Applying heat protection products before styling is essential to prevent damage from heat tools like straighteners and curling irons. These products form a barrier that helps to protect your hair and maintain the integrity of your color-treated highlights.
- Regular Touch-Ups: Scheduling regular touch-ups for your highlights will keep your hair looking fresh and vibrant. Depending on how quickly your hair grows and how often you wash it, this could be every six to eight weeks to maintain the desired look.
- Avoiding Excessive Sun Exposure: UV rays can cause color fading, so it’s important to protect your hair from excessive sun exposure. Wearing a hat or using hair products that contain UV protection can help shield your highlights from sun damage.
- Using Color-Depositing Products: To enhance and maintain the vibrancy of your reddish brown highlights, consider using color-depositing conditioners or shampoos. These products can help to refresh the color in between salon visits, providing a boost of pigment while also conditioning your hair.
Which Celebrities Inspire Beautiful Highlights for Reddish Brown Hair?
Rihanna’s bold approach to hair color often includes deep burgundy and mahogany highlights, which not only complement her reddish brown hair but also add a dramatic flair. This choice is perfect for those looking to make a statement with their hair while maintaining a cohesive color scheme.
Ginger Zee’s honey blonde highlights are designed to create a radiant, sunlit effect that brightens her reddish brown hair. This combination softens her look and adds a playful touch, ideal for someone seeking a lighter, more cheerful hairstyle.
Julianne Moore’s subtle strawberry blonde highlights enhance her red hair beautifully, adding a touch of brightness without overwhelming her natural hue. This choice is perfect for maintaining an elegant and sophisticated look while still incorporating lighter tones.
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