20 Gorgeous Red Highlight Ideas for Black Hair That Turn Heads

Adding red highlights to black hair is one of the most stunning ways to refresh your style. Whether you want a bold, fiery transformation or a subtle, romantic glow, red tones can bring warmth, shine, and dimension to your dark strands. From deep maroons and burgundies to bright scarlets and copper fades, these shades are timeless and suit almost every skin tone.

No matter your vibe—sophisticated, edgy, or playful—there’s a red highlight idea that will make your black hair stand out beautifully.

Below, we’ve rounded up 20 stunning red highlight ideas for black hair that you can try in 2025. Each one brings its own unique vibe, from soft romantic hues to bold showstoppers.

1. Black Hair With Subtle Maroon Red Highlights

If you’re aiming for a hint of color without going overboard, this look is a perfect fit. The maroon red tones blend beautifully into black hair, adding warmth and depth while keeping things elegant.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds a soft, reflective glow that’s visible in sunlight.
• Subtle enough for work or everyday wear.
• Perfect balance between sophistication and color play.

Best for:
Medium to dark skin tones and those who want low-contrast color.

Pro tip:
Use a color-protecting shampoo and a hydrating mask weekly to keep the maroon tone rich and glossy.

2. Mahogany Red Highlights

Mahogany red is a timeless favorite—it merges red and brown tones for a warm, natural finish. On black hair, it creates a soft transition that catches light beautifully and adds a rich, dimensional glow.

Why you’ll love it:

• Gives hair a natural yet vibrant appearance.
• Looks especially stunning under sunlight.
• Adds a luxurious touch to darker hair shades.

Best for:
Warm, tan, or olive skin tones.

Styling tip:
Add loose curls or soft waves to enhance the warm undertones and highlight the depth of the color.

3. Subtle Red Balayage

For those who want color that grows out gracefully, subtle red balayage is the way to go. The hand-painted red tones start mid-length and blend into your ends, giving a natural, sun-kissed transition.

Why you’ll love it:

• Low-maintenance—roots stay dark, so no harsh grow-out lines.
• Adds movement and brightness to black hair.
• Works beautifully on both straight and wavy textures.

Best for:
Anyone who loves soft, blended color rather than bold streaks.

Pro tip:
Finish with a shine spray or gloss treatment to make the red hues stand out even more.

4. Black-to-Copper Ombre

This fiery ombre look is perfect for those who crave contrast and vibrancy. The transition from jet black roots to glowing copper ends creates a bold yet elegant gradient. It instantly adds warmth to your complexion and makes your hair look fuller and more dynamic.

Why you’ll love it:

• Eye-catching, dimensional, and perfect for all seasons.
• The color fade makes it easy to maintain—no frequent root touch-ups.
• Complements long layers and textured styles beautifully.

Best for:
Warm or golden skin tones, or anyone who loves a little drama in their hair.

Styling tip:
Style in loose curls or waves to enhance the ombre effect and bring out that copper shimmer.

5. Maroon Red on Black Hair

If you want a color that’s bold yet sophisticated, maroon red on black hair is the perfect blend of both worlds. The rich red hue merges seamlessly with dark strands, creating a deep, velvety finish that stands out without being too loud.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds richness and dimension to plain black hair.
• Perfect for any season—especially fall and winter.
• Gives a luxurious, elegant vibe without the need for frequent salon visits.

Best for:
Medium to deep skin tones and anyone who loves deep, romantic shades.

Styling tip:
Try loose curls or a sleek straight style to let the maroon color reflect beautifully under light.

6. Subtle Burgundy Streaks

For a low-key pop of color, subtle burgundy streaks are a great choice. These fine streaks add a hint of red-purple tone that catches the light without overpowering your natural black base.

Why you’ll love it:

• Ideal for beginners who want to try red without a big change.
• Adds a soft, dimensional glow to black hair.
• Looks equally stunning on short, medium, and long hair.

Best for:
Cool or neutral undertones—burgundy complements these beautifully.

Pro tip:
Keep your streaks glossy by using a color-enhancing conditioner and avoiding excessive heat styling.

7. Light Red Highlights on Black Hair

Light red highlights bring a fun and youthful touch to black hair. The contrast between the two shades gives your hairstyle a vibrant, eye-catching edge that’s perfect for those who love experimenting with color.

Why you’ll love it:

• Brightens your overall look instantly.
• Works great with layered or textured hairstyles.
• Adds depth and shine without coloring the full head.

Best for:
Fair to medium skin tones or anyone wanting a playful, lively look.

Styling tip:
Go for beachy waves or tousled curls to make the lighter strands stand out more naturally.

8. Subtle Dark Red Balayage Highlights

This look combines the elegance of balayage with the mystery of dark red tones. The color is painted softly onto black hair, creating a beautifully blended gradient that’s modern and low-maintenance.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds warmth and depth without a harsh contrast.
• Grows out naturally with minimal upkeep.
• Enhances the natural flow and texture of your hair.

Best for:
Those who want a refined and professional color that still feels trendy.

Pro tip:
Add a gloss treatment or color-refresh mask every few weeks to maintain that deep, rich red hue.

9. Black & Scarlet Red Highlights Combo

If you love bold, high-contrast color, this combination of black and scarlet red highlights makes a fearless statement. The deep black base enhances the vibrancy of the scarlet tones, creating a dramatic and fiery finish. Whether you go for thin streaks or chunkier highlights, the blend gives your hair a confident, fashion-forward edge.

Why you’ll love it:

• The bold contrast instantly catches attention.
• Adds a vibrant, modern flair to dark hair.
• Perfect for edgy cuts like layered bobs or long shags.

Best for:
Those who enjoy experimenting with striking, high-impact colors.

Styling tip:
Style your hair straight or slightly wavy to show off the contrast between red and black more clearly.

10. Red Peekaboo Highlights

If you prefer a more subtle yet playful look, red peekaboo highlights are the perfect choice. These hidden streaks are placed underneath the top layer of your hair, so they peek through when you move or style your hair differently. It’s a fun way to experiment with color without going all-in on a bright red look.

Why you’ll love it:

• Great for work or school since it’s not too loud.
• Adds a creative twist when you tie your hair up or curl it.
• Gives your hair dimension and personality without a full-color commitment.

Best for:
Anyone who wants to test out red tones in a low-maintenance way.

Pro tip:
Curl or braid your hair to let those peekaboo streaks stand out naturally.

11. Dark Burgundy Highlights

Dark burgundy highlights give black hair a sophisticated, wine-inspired richness. The deep burgundy shade blends effortlessly with dark strands, adding dimension and a touch of mystery to your overall look. It’s a timeless and elegant choice that’s both subtle and stylish.

Why you’ll love it:

• Perfect for fall and winter tones.
• Adds shine and depth to naturally dark hair.
• Looks classy in both casual and formal hairstyles.

Best for:
Cool undertones or anyone who prefers deeper, muted red shades.

Styling tip:
Wear your hair sleek and straight to highlight the glossy depth of the burgundy color.

12. Black Hair With Dark Cherry Red Highlights

This look combines the intensity of black hair with the rich sweetness of dark cherry red. The result is a stunning, multidimensional effect that catches light beautifully. The cherry tones give warmth to your complexion and a playful yet elegant feel to your hair.

Why you’ll love it:

• The perfect balance between subtle and striking.
• Adds a touch of color that enhances dark roots naturally.
• Works great for both long and medium hair lengths.

Best for:
Warm and neutral skin tones, or anyone who wants a bold but classy red look.

Pro tip:
Use a shine serum or light hair oil to enhance the cherry red glow and prevent dullness.

13. Light Red Streaks

Light red streaks are a beautiful way to add a soft pop of color to black hair without going too bold. The contrast between the dark base and lighter red strands gives your hair a glowing, dimensional effect. These streaks instantly brighten your overall look and add movement to your hairstyle.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds a touch of brightness that looks stunning in sunlight.
• Works perfectly for layered or textured haircuts.
• A great option if you want to ease into red tones gradually.

Best for:
Fair to medium complexions or anyone who wants a lively, youthful vibe.

Styling tip:
Style your hair in loose curls or soft waves to showcase the lighter streaks and enhance their shimmer.

14. Berry Cherry Highlights on Dark Hair

Berry cherry highlights combine the sweetness of cherry tones with the richness of deep berry shades, creating a luxurious and dimensional color effect. On black hair, this mix adds depth and vibrancy, giving your strands a beautiful reddish-purple glow that changes subtly in different lighting.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds a trendy and romantic color blend.
• Makes dark hair look fuller and more textured.
• Perfect for anyone who wants a hint of purple-red dimension.

Best for:
Medium to dark skin tones, as berry hues complement deeper undertones beautifully.

Pro tip:
Use a color-enhancing gloss every few weeks to maintain the richness of the berry tones.

15. Black Cherry Cola

Inspired by the deep, glossy tones of cherry cola, this shade brings together black, brown, and red undertones for a smooth, velvety effect. It’s one of the most subtle ways to wear red on black hair, offering a natural yet alluring finish that shines in the light.

Why you’ll love it:

• Elegant and understated—perfect for everyday wear.
• Adds depth and warmth without appearing too bold.
• Looks sophisticated on both straight and curly hair textures.

Best for:
Anyone who prefers a low-maintenance, polished look with a touch of color.

Styling tip:
Try sleek, straight styles to show off the smooth cherry undertones or add waves for extra dimension.

16. Ginger Balayage Highlights

Ginger balayage highlights bring a warm, sunlit glow to black hair. The soft strokes of copper and ginger tones add brightness and a natural radiance that feels perfect for spring or summer. The balayage technique keeps the transition seamless and easy to maintain.

Why you’ll love it:

• Creates a natural, light-reflective finish.
• Adds warmth and energy to dark hair.
• Looks fresh and modern with any haircut or texture.

Best for:
Warm or golden skin tones that pair beautifully with copper and ginger hues.

Pro tip:
Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo to keep the brightness of the ginger shade from fading too quickly.

17. Black and Bright Red Ombre

The black and bright red ombre is a bold, statement-making look that blends the intensity of jet-black roots with vibrant, fiery red ends. The transition is seamless yet dramatic, creating a fierce contrast that catches attention instantly. It’s a favorite among those who love edgy, confident styles.

Why you’ll love it:

• Creates a striking two-tone effect that stands out.
• The ombre fade keeps maintenance low since roots grow out naturally.
• Looks amazing on straight, wavy, or curly hair.

Best for:
Those who enjoy daring, high-impact looks and want to show off their personality through color.

Styling tip:
Use a shine serum or hair oil to enhance the red tones and keep them glossy and vibrant.

18. Crimson Red Tips on Black Hair

Crimson red tips offer a fun and creative way to add color to black hair without committing to a full-head dye job. The deep crimson hue adds warmth and flair while the black roots keep the style balanced and wearable. It’s the perfect option for someone who wants just the right amount of boldness.

Why you’ll love it:

• Easy to achieve and maintain compared to full red highlights.
• Adds a youthful, playful edge to dark hair.
• Perfect for those experimenting with red tones for the first time.

Best for:
Medium to deep skin tones that complement warm, red hues beautifully.

Styling tip:
Curl the ends of your hair or add texture to make the crimson tips pop even more.

19. Black Hair With a Ruby Red Ombre Effect

Ruby red ombre adds a luxurious gemstone-inspired glow to black hair. The rich ruby shade blends beautifully from the dark roots, creating a sultry and dimensional effect that sparkles under light. This look gives off a bold yet elegant vibe—perfect for anyone looking to make a statement.

Why you’ll love it:

• Deep ruby tones create a sophisticated finish.
• Works well with all hair types and lengths.
• Adds depth and movement, especially to layered cuts.

Best for:
Cool or neutral undertones that pair well with jewel-inspired red shades.

Pro tip:
Use a color-depositing conditioner weekly to keep the ruby hue radiant and prevent fading.

20. Black Hair With Scarlet Red Tips

Scarlet red tips bring a fiery, high-energy touch to classic black hair. This combination feels both edgy and glamorous, giving off a confident, fashion-forward vibe. The bright scarlet hue at the ends adds vibrancy, while the black base keeps the look grounded and balanced.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds a pop of brightness without coloring your whole head.
• A bold yet manageable choice for first-time red lovers.
• The contrast enhances your haircut’s shape and layers.

Best for:
People with warm or olive skin tones who want to bring warmth and brightness to their look.

Styling tip:
Flat iron your hair sleek or create loose curls to highlight the scarlet contrast and show off the color gradient beautifully.

21. Black Hair with Copper Rose Highlights

Copper rose highlights combine the warmth of copper with a hint of rosy pink, giving your black hair a soft, romantic glow. This tone adds depth and elegance without being too loud, making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Why you’ll love it:

• The rose undertone gives a feminine, modern edge.
• Adds a natural brightness to dark hair.
• Looks stunning in both sunlight and indoor lighting.

Best for:
Warm or neutral skin tones that complement coppery hues beautifully.

Styling tip:
Style your hair in loose curls to make the copper rose tones shimmer through every strand.

22. Deep Wine Red Balayage

The deep wine red balayage blends rich burgundy and red wine hues into black hair, creating a sophisticated and luxurious finish. It’s the perfect way to go dark and bold while still embracing a hint of red warmth.

Why you’ll love it:

• Adds a multidimensional, sultry look to your locks.
• Perfect for cooler months or evening styles.
• Works beautifully on long, layered haircuts.

Best for:
Cool or neutral undertones that enhance deep, rich shades.

Styling tip:
Use shine sprays or gloss treatments to enhance the depth and sheen of your wine-red tones.

Inspiration Gallery

Choosing the Right Shade of Red for Your Skin Tone

Not all reds are created equal—some bring out your glow more than others. Picking the right shade ensures your highlights look flattering and natural.

For warm undertones:

• Try copper, auburn, ginger, or fiery reds. These add a sun-kissed warmth that enhances golden complexions.

For cool undertones:

• Opt for burgundy, wine, or cherry tones that complement pink or blue undertones beautifully.

For neutral undertones:

• You can rock anything—from maroon to crimson—depending on how bold you want to go.

Pro Tip: Always test a few strands first to see how the red shade interacts with your natural base and lighting.

✨ Different Highlight Techniques to Try

How you place the red color can completely change your look. From soft blends to bold contrast, here are a few highlighting techniques that work beautifully with black hair:

• Balayage: Hand-painted for a natural sunlit effect. Perfect for low-maintenance styles.
• Ombre: Gradual transition from black roots to red ends—dramatic yet elegant.
• Peekaboo Highlights: Hidden under layers, they appear subtly when hair moves.
• Money Piece Highlights: Bold streaks framing the face for an instant glow-up.
• Full Highlights: Evenly distributed red tones for maximum vibrancy.

💆‍♀️ How to Maintain Red Highlights on Black Hair

Red pigments tend to fade faster than other colors, so proper aftercare is essential to keep your hair vibrant and healthy.

Maintenance tips:

1. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner – preferably sulfate-free.
2. Wash with cool water to prevent color bleeding.
3. Apply a deep conditioning mask weekly to keep hair soft and hydrated.
4. Avoid excessive heat styling or always use a heat protectant spray.
5. Use a color-depositing gloss or toner every few weeks to refresh the red tone.

🌟 Hairstyle Ideas to Show Off Your Red Highlights

How you style your hair can enhance the beauty of your highlights. Try:

• Soft curls or beachy waves to show off dimension and shine.
• High ponytails or messy buns to reveal hidden red tones.
• Braids or half-up hairstyles to create contrast between red and black layers.
• Straight and sleek styles for a polished, glossy finish.

💡 Red Highlights for Every Season

Red highlights can be tailored to match the vibe of any season:

• Spring: Go for light copper or strawberry red for a fresh, youthful feel.
• Summer: Fiery reds and scarlets look amazing under the sun.
• Fall: Choose burgundy, auburn, or mahogany for cozy, warm tones.
• Winter: Try dark cherry or ruby red to add richness to your look.

🧴 Products to Keep Your Red Highlights Vibrant

Keep your red tones fresh and shiny with the right hair care products.

Recommended products:

• Color-safe shampoo: Redken Color Extend Magnetics, Pureology Hydrate.
• Deep conditioner: Olaplex No.3, Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair.
• Color gloss or toner: Kristin Ess Color Gloss in Copper or Burgundy.
• UV protectant spray: To protect from sun fading.

💖 Final Thoughts

Red highlights on black hair are one of the most eye-catching yet versatile color trends you can try. Whether you go subtle with maroon tones or bold with bright scarlet ombre, this look brings confidence, warmth, and style to every strand. With the right shade and care routine, your red highlights will stay vibrant and turn heads wherever you go.