Stand Out and Shine Among a Sea of Blondes
When it comes to hair colouring, redheads require a special touch. If you’ve ever considered colouring your hair red, or attempted to maintain your natural red locks, you may have heard about the challenges that come with it. As a hairdresser based in Edinburgh with a passion for creating stunning copper and red tones, I’ve been through my own journey of learning how to perfect the art of colouring red hair.
Whilst I can't speak for every hairdresser or training programme, I’d like to share my personal experience of how I overcame the challenges of painting red.
My Hairdressing Training
I began my journey by studying Level 2 Hairdressing in college, which is the minimum requirement to gain insurance and perform professional hair services in the UK. During my training, we touched on techniques to avoid hot roots (a common issue where the roots turn brighter or warmer than the rest of the hair). One method we learned was to apply colour to the mid-lengths and ends first, then go back to the roots to avoid over-processing near the scalp.
Now, if you’ve ever had tint applied like this or even attempted yourself, you’ll know it can be quite messy! Another workaround we were taught was to mix a brunette shade into the copper or red formula to counteract hot roots. However, this method often left a noticeable difference between the roots and the ends—sometimes creating a shadow root effect, which wasn’t ideal. For years, I would mix my formula and hope it came out even, but I knew there had to be a better way.
Unlocking Advanced Colouring Techniques
One positive thing that came out of the COVID-19 lockdowns was the surge in online education for hairdressers. With more time to focus on self-improvement, I took the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and skills in an area I’m passionate about—colouring red hair. When I came across Australian colourist Colour Kristina, who specialises in creating beautiful copper and red tones, I jumped at the chance to expand my expertise.
Kristina’s training opened my eyes to new techniques and formulations that have revolutionised how I approach red hair colouring. Whether you’re after a vibrant fashion red or you’re a natural redhead looking for grey coverage, I have the skills and confidence to create a seamless colour without the dreaded hot roots.
Why Red Hair Colouring is So Special
Red is one of the most striking and beautiful hair colours, but it’s also one of the most challenging to get right. The larger red pigment molecules tend to fade faster, and achieving the perfect balance between vibrant and natural tones takes precision. Thanks to my additional training, I’ve learned how to formulate for redheads in a way that not only looks stunning but lasts longer, even against the challenges of fading and uneven colour.
While many hairdressers choose to specialise in blonde or balayage techniques, I’ve focused my learning on creating beautiful colours for redheads. From copper tones to deep reds, I now approach each redhead with confidence, knowing how to tailor the formula to their individual needs—whether it’s for a bold fashion look or a natural, subtle enhancement.
Why Choose a Redhead Specialist in Edinburgh?
If you're in Edinburgh and looking for a hairdresser who truly understands how to work with red hair, you don’t need to worry about hot roots or uneven colour when you’re in my chair. My specialised training means I can confidently create consistent, vibrant results, ensuring your hair looks gorgeous from roots to ends. As a hairdresser who loves working with copper and red tones, I’ve made it my mission to become the go-to redhead specialist in Edinburgh.
Whether you're a natural redhead looking to refresh your colour, or you’re ready to dive into the world of reds for the first time, I have the experience and the expertise to give you the perfect shade. You can sit back, relax, and trust that your hair is in expert hands.
