January 31, 2011

Red-hot hair color -- s2smagazine.com -- January 2011


When Rihanna first rocked her fiery red ‘do, we turned green with envy. “Rihanna's red is fun and definitely suiting for a performer,” said Aura Friedman, lead color ambassador for hair care brand Wella.

While the everyday gal may not perform in front of sold-out crowds, one might still want to rock bold red tresses like Ri-Ri.

If so, go for a more natural-looking version of Rihanna’s color. Aura suggests adding a shadow of a slightly darker or more natural red at the root. Then, make the ends slightly lighter or brighter to create dimension all over. “Even when creating a bright unnatural color, I still like to emulate nature,” said Aura, who has worked with M.I.A., Lady Gaga and up-and-coming female MC Rye Rye.

Work with your stylist and/or colorist to choose and achieve the right hue for you. Aura recommends that women with medium skin tones, like Zoe Saldana, accompany their red with rich chestnut roots, a hint of dark copper and paprika ends. Ebony skin tones like Alek Wek’s would look great in a true red, like a fiery orange-red or even a bright cool-toned red.

One thing to keep in mind is that reds are known to fade faster than other colors. To deter fading, don’t wash your hair as often, use a cool rinse on your hair at the end of your showers and only use shampoos and conditioners formulated for color-treated hair.

While we’re loving Rihanna’s hair right now, we cannot wait to see what the beauty trendsetter has up her sleeve for her next look.