Summer 2011: Hot Red Hair

From Gossip Girl’s Serena van der Woodson to The Other Boleyn Girl, Scarlett Johansson, movie stars are leaving their blond days behind to be redheads instead. Katy Perry is also temporarily sporting the redhead look for the next three weeks, but does that mean you should too? Here are some things you should consider before going fiery red.

Choose the color according to your skin tone and eye color. Don’t just copy your favorite actress. If you're pale, Rihanna’s vibrant red would make you paler, so before dyeing your hair consult your hair stylist and try on different shades of red hair pieces (if available).

Carry a photograph of the color you want. Do not explain to your stylist the color you want, instead show them that way you’ll avoid the mix up.

Know the difference between Level and Tone. Color level is the intensity of the color (i.e.: lightness/ darkness) while the tone is what is reflected in the color (strawberry, copper, auburn…).

Make sure you’ll be able to maintain your red locks. Red hair always fades faster than any other shade therefore requires special treatment. Using a shampoo and conditioner especially formulated for red hair will allow the color to last longer.

Taking care of your hair should start from day one, you might even need to change your make-up palette to match your new look so be careful there’s a price to pay to be a redhead.

Never go solid. Solid red hair can appear flat and boring. Playing with high and low lights (all in different shades of red) will give your hair depth and make it seem more alive.

So, will you be visiting the salon for a little bit of Red?