COPPER HAIR: HOW TO FIND YOUR IDEAL SIGNATURE SHADE
When we say copper hair who do you think of – Florence Welch? Nicole Kidman? Julia Roberts? Julianne Moore? The list of A-list celebrities sporting copper hair is endless. And although we’ve all idolised copper hair at some point in our life (we’re talking midnight margaritas and channeling Gillian Owens), its recent trending moments social media truly cemented our love for this hair hue.
Versatile and suitable for a range of skin tones, it’s no wonder everyone is taking the copper hair plunge. Ideal for the colder climes, copper hair works wonders to warm the complexion and bring brightness back to lackluster skin.
But which copper hair hue is the one for you? From fiery red to subtle, strawberry inspired shades, we’re giving you the low down on how to find your perfect copper hair colour and what the different shades of copper hair colours there are...
COWBOY COPPER HAIR
Soft, muted and inspired by the leather tones found in cowboy gear, the aptly named cowboy copper hair is the trending colour of the season. Ideal for a range of skin tones, it complements everyone from those with pale, cool complexions to dark and warm. Although every copper hair colour is unique to you and your skin tone, this shade of red works well for almost everyone because it's a blend of deep red and warm, earthy browns. For inspiration, think Gigi Hadid and Megan Thee Stallion.
COPPER RED HAIR COLOUR
If, however, you want to be more dramatic, consider trying a copper red hair colour instead. An ideal shade for those blessed with olive undertones or light-medium complexions, copper red hair works wonders to bring balance to your complexion and your strands. For inspiration look to the likes of Zendaya and Sadie Sink.
DARK COPPER RED HAIR COLOUR
With shades in this category ranging from wine to cherry red, dark copper red hair colours work best for medium to dark undertones. Working in harmony with your skin, this shade brings warmth and dimension back to your complexion, boosting a luminous finish. That’s not to say this shade won’t suit other skin tones too. Dua Lipa is a prime example of a celebrity rocking a dark copper red hair colour. For inspiration to take to a salon? Think: Rihanna, Rosalia and Olivia O’Brien.
COPPER BLONDE HAIR COLOUR
An ideal way to dip your toe into the trend, copper blonde hair colours give a subtle nod to the hue, without going the whole way. Suiting almost all skin tones, this shade of copper brings out the greenish undertones in olive skin, adding a sunkissed sign off, balances cool undertones in paler complexions and adds a striking contrast to darker tones. Sydney Sweeny, Ciara and Ice Spice are just some names who make us want to turn to this trend.
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR COPPER HAIR COLOUR
Use a colour safe shampoo and conditioner – ensure the shampoo and conditioner you choose doesn’t have any sulphates in the formula as this can lift away the hair’s outermost protective layer and allow water and shampoo to seep into the cuticles, washing out the colour molecules. Rinse hair with cold water – rinsing shampoo and conditioner with cool water helps seal the hair cuticle and prevent your colour fading faster. Protect from UV – sunlight can fade copper hues, with that in mind it’s best to use a leave in conditioner or styling product infused with UV protection. Minimise heat styling – this goes without saying but excessive use of your hot tools can dull your copper colour. Limit how often you wash your hair – washing your hair frequently will make your colour fade faster. Consider co-washing (where only a conditioner is used and not shampoo) on alternate days to keep hair hydrated and fresh. Have regular touch ups- this is imperative to maintaining bright and vibrant hair.
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COPPER HAIR FAQs
What skin tone is good for copper hair?
Almost all skin tones can pull off copper hair for different reasons. For example, fair skin tones look good with copper hair because it brightens the complexion, copper hair on medium skin tones brings out the natural warmth in the skin, creating balance. And, for darker skin tones, copper works well as it adds contrast and luminosity.
Who does copper hair not suit?
Almost everyone can pull off a copper hair. However, the only thing that makes it a difficult strand shade to work with is the fact that it is so high maintenance. Washing out quickly, requiring frequent touch ups and regular maintenance means this shade is a serious hair care commitment. If that is not something you could contend with then maybe copper hair isn’t for you.
Does copper hair make you look younger or older?
Copper hair can make you look younger! Why? Because it works with your complexion bringing balance, brightness and a touch of radiance all associated with younger looking skin. Enhancing your natural glow (because it reflects the light around your face), copper hair makes your skin look more vibrant and fresher.
Rina is Cult Beauty’s Junior SEO Copywriter and has always had a passion for beauty and skin care (rich moisturisers are her obsession). What started as a love for The Body Shop and their famed Born Lippy lip balms (in ‘Watermelon’ of course!), she is now more interested in finding products with proven effectiveness instead of broken promises. A loud and proud VIEVE fan, Rina owns nearly every item of the range and recommends the brand to anyone who will listen... When she’s not intently reading ingredient lists, you can find her either immersed in multiple true crime podcasts or co-hosting her own parenting one, with an *extra* hot cappuccino in hand.
