Formulas > Red > Bright Apple Red
Last updated: February 17, 2023

Bright Apple Red

By Kara Williams

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  • Formula A (roots)

    Matrix SoColor Pre-Bonded HD RV + 40-volume developer

  • Formula B (refresh)

    Matrix SoColor Cult 2 oz. Red Hot + 1 oz. Clear

 

Want the look? This rad #ONESHOT Reds Top 25 Finalist is turning heads in the best way possible. We reached out to artist Kara Williams (@haircolorkilla) for the juicy deets on how to recreate this stunning color. Keep scrolling to try it yourself!

 

What is the ideal client for this transformation?

In general, high lift reds like this are great for darker levels between Level 3 and Level 5. Kara’s client has been red for years, making her end result more of a touch-up than an overall transformation.

 

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How long will this look take?

The majority of this client’s three-hour appointment was focused on the cut, blow-dry and style, while the actual color refresh took around 45 minutes. 

 

Pro tip: Bright reds don’t alway have to double process. A good, vibrant red exists at a Level 6. Refreshing with a semi will help keep reds bright without browning out.

 

Related: 3 Tips For Refreshing Red Hair Color

 

How much is this look priced?

For a color refresh in addition to a major cut and styling service, Kara charges around $360.

 

How can clients care for this look?

For the longest lasting results, Kara advises her vibrant red clients to take advantage of at-home toner touch-ups and Matrix Keep Me Vivid Sulfate Free Shampoo between salon visits.

Who Did It

Colorist: Kara Williams
Manufacturer: Matrix, @matrix

Products Used

COLOR FORMULAS

  • Formula A (roots)

    Matrix SoColor Pre-Bonded HD RV + 40-volume developer

  • Formula B (refresh)

    Matrix SoColor Cult 2 oz. Red Hot + 1 oz. Clear

FORMULA STEPS

  1. Kara’s client is a routine red and sees her every six weeks for a touch-up, so she achieved this red refresh in a few simple steps. First, she applied Formula A to the roots.
  2. Next, she refreshed the mids and ends with Formula B to add richness and to prevent the color from browning out.
  3. After the color service, Kara followed up with a full haircut/styling service to achieve this structured, custom look.