Modern Auburn

Rich Auburn With Copper Dimension

Red is THE statement-making color this season, with clients requesting all and every shade of copper for their new look. One of the most popular requests: This flattering modern auburn formula by balayage master Paula Pedersen (@_hairbypaula) that brings “red” to the next level.

Keep scrolling for Paula’s formulas, step-by-step technique and insider tips for recreating this color behind the chair!

What is your best consultation tip for this look?

Luckily for clients, Paula’s vibrant technique can be used to spice up all hair types. But, we know what kind of commitment it takes to maintain these bright copper tones. Make sure your client understands what maintenance appointments and at-home care looks like during consultation.

How long does this color take to apply and how long does it last?

The overall process should take roughly an hour and 45 minutes, with about 30 minutes of application and 35 minutes of processing followed by styling.

As for maintenance, Paula has a tip for keeping this fiery hue looking bright before your client even leaves the salon: Prep the hair with K18 Hair Peptide Prep™ Detox Shampoo to maintain the integrity of the hair. 

Paula also has a color preference she says goes a long way: “I love using Schwarzkopf Professional® for my red clients,” she says. “I think they have the best natural-looking red shades that are so easily customizable for any look you are trying to achieve.”

What does at-home care look like for this look?

At-home maintenance is the most important step to keeping rich red hair looking vibrant, so it’s always good to let clients know what they’re in for and the best possible ways to manage it. 

“Since vibrant colors do tend to fade on the faster side, I always recommend a color depositing and conditioning mask to use at home,” Paula shares. “My favorite for redheads is the Wella Professionals Color Fresh Mask in Copper Glow. This can be used alone for maximum deposit or [diluted] by mixing it with a regular conditioner. Let it sit for five to seven minutes.”

What does salon maintenance look like for this color?

Paula recommends modern auburn clients revisit the salon every eight to 10 weeks for a standard touch-up appointment with a root retouch and glaze for vibrance.

What type of client is ideal for creating this look?

“I always tell my clients that red is the quickest to fade from being vibrant but the hardest to remove entirely from the hair,” Paula explains. “I would tell a client not to get this done if they are someone who is constantly looking to switch up their look [or] if they are someone who wants a low maintenance look. This is such a gorgeous color, but the client really needs to be sure they are willing to commit!

What does pricing look like for modern auburn? 

For the initial service—if lightening is not required—Paula typically charges her modern auburn clientele $120 for the base application and $150 for the midlengths-to-ends application. She prices maintenance appointments at $120 for a root touch-up and $75 for her toner.

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