Understanding hair color is essential for both professionals and enthusiasts aiming for vibrant, consistent, and beautiful results. One of the most trusted brands in the hair industry is Redken, renowned for its innovative formulas and extensive color palette. A key resource that helps hairstylists and clients alike is the Redkin color chart. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of Redken’s coloring system, explains how to interpret the color chart, and offers tips for selecting the right shades to achieve your desired look.
What Is the Redkin Color Chart?
The Redkin color chart is a visual tool that showcases the full spectrum of Redken hair colors, including permanent, semi-permanent, and demi-permanent options. It serves as a reference guide for colorists to understand the range of shades available, their underlying tones, and how they can be combined or customized for personalized results.
This chart is essential for:
- Determining the perfect shade match for clients
- Planning color formulas for salon services
- Educating clients about their color options
- Ensuring consistency in color application
The Components of the Redkin Color Chart
The Redkin color chart is organized systematically to make navigation straightforward. Its main components include:
1. Shade Families
Redken categorizes its colors into different families based on the primary undertones and finish. Common shade families include:
- Blondes: From icy platinum to warm honey
- Brunettes: Ranging from cool ash to rich chocolate
- Red Shades: Vibrant reds, auburns, and copper tones
- Specialty Colors: Pastels, fashion shades, and vivid tones
2. Level System
Redken’s coloring system uses a numerical scale from 1 to 10:
- 1: Black
- 2: Dark Brown
- 3: Medium Brown
- 4: Light Brown
- 5: Dark Blonde
- 6: Blonde
- 7: Darker Blonde
- 8: Blonde
- 9: Light Blonde
- 10: Lightest Blonde (Platinum)
The level indicates the lightness or darkness of the shade, aiding in selecting the appropriate base or target color.
3. Underlying Tones (Tone or Undertone)
Colors have underlying warm, cool, or neutral tones that influence how the shade appears on hair:
- Warm tones: Gold, amber, copper
- Cool tones: Ash, violet, blue
- Neutral tones: Balanced mix of warm and cool
The chart visually indicates these undertones, helping professionals choose shades that complement skin tone and desired effect.
4. Finish
Redken offers various finishes, such as:
- Creamy: Soft, natural-looking results
- Vivid: Bright, intense colors
- Pastel: Muted, subtle shades
- Metallic/Gloss: Reflective, shiny results
Interpreting the Redkin Color Chart
To effectively use the Redkin color chart, follow these steps:
1. Identify the Desired Result
Determine if the client wants:
- A natural look (e.g., medium brown with ash undertones)
- A vibrant fashion color (e.g., bright pink or violet)
- A subtle change (e.g., gloss or toner)
2. Select the Appropriate Level
Choose a shade level based on the current hair color and the target result:
- Lightening: Going from darker to lighter shades
- Tonal correction: Adjusting existing tones
- Root touch-up: Matching existing hair shade
3. Consider the Underlying Tones
Match the undertones to skin tone and personal preference:
- Cool tones suit cooler skin undertones
- Warm tones complement warmer complexions
- Neutral tones work universally
4. Pick the Shade Family
Navigate the shade families to find the perfect hue:
- For blondes, options range from icy platinum to golden blonde
- For brunettes, from ash brown to rich chocolate
- For reds, from fiery copper to deep auburn
5. Consult the Formula and Finish
Determine the formulation:
- Permanent colors for long-lasting results
- Demi-permanent for subtle, less invasive changes
- Semi-permanent for temporary color
Choose the finish based on desired shine and vibrancy.
Popular Redkin Color Lines and Their Place in the Color Chart
Redken offers several coloring lines, each integrated into the color chart with specific features:
1. Redken Shades EQ
A demi-permanent line perfect for glossing, toning, and subtle color enhancements. It’s ideal for:
- Correcting unwanted tones
- Creating pastel shades
- Enhancing shine
2. Redken Chromatics
A permanent color line that offers:
- A wide array of shades
- 100% coverage
- Gentle ammonia-free formulas
Chromatics shades are prominently featured on the color chart, allowing precise selection.
3. Redken City Beats
Vivid semi-permanent shades designed for bold, fashion-forward looks. These vibrant colors are added to the chart as specialty shades.
4. Redken Blonde Idol
Specifically formulated for blondes, this line helps achieve high-lift, cool, or warm blondes aligned with the chart’s blonde spectrum.
Using the Redkin Color Chart for Customization
The color chart is not just a static guide; it enables customization through:
- Mixing Shades: Combining different tones to create bespoke colors
- Adjusting Levels: Lightening or darkening shades with developer or toner
- Toning: Using specific shades to neutralize unwanted undertones
This flexibility allows stylists to tailor results precisely to client needs.
Tips for Maintaining Color Using the Redkin Color Chart
Achieving the perfect color is only part of the process; maintenance is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners aligned with the undertone (e.g., purple shampoo for blondes)
- Schedule regular gloss or toner treatments from the Shades EQ line
- Educate clients on avoiding harsh products that can strip color
- Recommend appropriate styling products to enhance shine and vibrancy
Conclusion: Mastering the Redkin Color Chart for Stunning Results
The Redkin color chart is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in hair coloring. By understanding its components—shade families, levels, undertones, and finishes—professionals can select the ideal shades to create personalized, vibrant, and long-lasting hair colors. Whether aiming for subtle highlights or daring fashion shades, mastering this chart ensures consistent, professional results that satisfy clients and elevate your artistry.
Remember, the key to successful coloring lies in careful interpretation of the chart, precise formulation, and thoughtful application. With Redken’s extensive palette and the guidance of the color chart, you can unlock endless creative possibilities for stunning hair transformations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Redkin Color Chart and how is it used?
The Redkin Color Chart is a comprehensive guide that displays the various hair color shades, tones, and formulations offered by Redkin. It helps stylists and clients select the perfect color by providing visual references and formulation details.
How do I choose the right Redkin color from the chart for my hair type?
To choose the right Redkin color, consider your current hair color, desired shade, and undertones. The chart offers guidance on suitable tones for different starting colors and hair conditions, helping you make an informed decision.
Are there any tips for matching Redkin colors with the color chart at home?
Yes, ensure your hair is clean and dry before comparing colors. Use natural lighting and hold the chart close to your hair for accurate matching. It's also advisable to consult a professional if you're unsure about selecting or applying the color.
What do the different labels and numbers on the Redkin Color Chart mean?
The labels and numbers indicate the shade family (such as blonde, brown, red), tone (cool, neutral, warm), and level of lightness or darkness. Understanding these helps in selecting a color that matches your desired outcome.
Can I use the Redkin Color Chart to create a custom hair color blend?
Absolutely. The chart serves as a reference for mixing different shades and tones. Professional stylists often combine colors from the chart to achieve unique, personalized hair colors tailored to clients’ preferences.
Where can I access the latest Redkin Color Chart?
The latest Redkin Color Chart is available on the official Redkin website, through authorized salons, or via professional hair color catalogs and digital apps designed for stylists.
Is the Redkin Color Chart suitable for beginners?
While the chart provides valuable visual guidance, beginners should consider consulting a professional stylist for optimal results, especially when choosing and applying complex color formulations.