by You’ve probably noticed copper hair color trending everywhere lately — from celebrities glowing on red carpets to everyday looks that catch the light in just the right way. But here’s the truth: choosing copper isn’t the hard part, it’s choosing the right copper. With so many shades, tones, and finishes, the wrong pick can feel flat while the right one can transform you completely.
To make it easier, I’ve ranked the six best copper hair colors from boldest to most subtle, so you can find the one that feels like it was made for you.
What Makes It a Special Copper Hair Color?
Copper hair color isn’t just another red. It sits beautifully between red and brunette with fiery undertones that range from golden orange to deep auburn. What makes it so popular is its versatility — it works with different skin tones, hairstyles, and levels of commitment. You can go full-on with copper hair dye, play it safe with copper hair extensions, or keep things soft with a copper hair gloss. Whether you’re after drama or a gentle glow, there’s a shade waiting to light you up.
6 best Copper Hair Color
1. Deep Rich Copper
If you want to be unforgettable, deep rich copper is your winner. This shade leans heavily into red undertones while keeping the metallic warmth of copper. It’s bold, it’s dramatic, and it demands attention. On you, this color instantly brightens features and creates that “just stepped out of the salon” confidence boost.
For black girls, deep copper is especially striking because the contrast against dark skin creates a luminous effect that feels both fierce and elegant. The trade-off is maintenance — this shade fades faster than most and will need consistent upkeep with copper hair color dye or refreshing gloss treatments. But if you’re ready to turn heads every time you walk into a room, deep rich copper is your best bet.
2. Copper Penny
Imagine your hair catching the light and sparkling like a shiny new penny. That’s the magic of a copper penny. This metallic-inspired shade sits right below deep copper on the ranking because it delivers high shine and a playful, glowing finish.
If you’re craving shimmer and movement in your look, copper penny is perfect for you. On pre-lightened hair, copper hair dye brings this shade to life, but you can also achieve a similar effect with copper hair with highlights that reflect dimension and shine. It’s especially flattering if you have warm undertones or want a sunlit glow that feels almost golden. Pair it with a copper hair gloss, and you’ll be amazed at how glossy and healthy your hair looks.
3. Strawberry Copper
Not everyone wants fiery and bold, and that’s where strawberry copper comes in. This shade has softer pink and peach notes mixed with copper warmth, giving you a romantic, youthful look. When you wear strawberry copper, you don’t feel like you’re screaming for attention — it’s more of a gentle glow that makes people lean in closer.
Fair skin tones benefit beautifully from strawberry copper, but it also creates a soft warmth against darker skin. Because it’s a lighter copper hair colour, fading is a real issue. Without the right products, it can wash out quickly. A copper hair gloss or color-depositing conditioner will help keep it vibrant. If you’re after charm without overpowering boldness, strawberry copper is your shade.
4. Copper Brown
Fourth on the list is copper brown, also known as “crunette.” Think of it as a brunette with a copper upgrade — subtle, professional, and totally wearable. If you’re nervous about going too bright but still want to join the copper trend, this shade lets you test the waters without full commitment.
Copper brown looks especially good if you have olive or medium skin, and it blends seamlessly with dark hair. You can add more drama by layering in copper hair extensions or highlights for dimension. The beauty of copper brown is that it’s lower maintenance than brighter shades, since it blends into darker roots more naturally. With the right copper hair dye, you can stretch out salon visits and still enjoy the warmth copper brings.
5. Copper with Highlights
If you’re not ready to dye your whole head, copper highlights are a clever choice. They give you all the dimension and vibrancy of copper without a full transformation. On dark brown or black hair, copper hair with highlights can instantly soften your look while adding warmth and light-catching movement.
For black girls, copper highlights threaded through curls, waves, or braids look absolutely stunning, creating a natural contrast that lights up with every turn of your head. You can also experiment without commitment by clipping in copper hair extensions — a quick, fun way to see how copper works with your complexion before going permanent. Highlights require some maintenance, but they’re far more forgiving than a full copper dye.
6. Copper Gloss
Last on the list, but by no means least, is copper gloss. If you’re cautious about committing to copper, this is your gentle entry point. A copper hair gloss doesn’t completely change your color — instead, it enhances shine, revives faded shades, or adds a soft copper tint that washes out gradually.
You’ll love copper gloss if you already have copper hair colour and want to keep it vibrant between salon appointments. It smooths frizz, adds polish, and keeps your hair looking salon-fresh without a full dye job. While it doesn’t have the bold punch of deep, rich copper or the shimmer of a copper penny, gloss gives you a wearable, low-maintenance glow that keeps your hair looking its best.
Choosing Your Copper Match
Now that you’ve seen the six shades ranked from best to good, the decision comes down to your personality and lifestyle. If you love the spotlight, deep rich copper and copper penny are unbeatable. If you prefer something soft and romantic, strawberry copper or copper brown are your go-tos. For flexibility, copper highlights or extensions let you play without full commitment. And if you’re curious but cautious, copper gloss offers an easy way in.
Whichever shade you choose, remember that copper hair color does require extra care. Wash less often, use sulfate-free shampoos, rinse with cool water, and keep a copper hair gloss in your routine to protect vibrancy. Copper might fade faster than other dyes, but the payoff is worth it — glowing, radiant hair that makes you feel like your best self.
Want to flaunt your new copper hair color in a beautiful place? Read our Wild animals and hiking adventures in Abruzzo tour guide
Final Thoughts
Copper hair color is more than a trend — it’s a statement of warmth, confidence, and individuality. From the bold drama of deep rich copper to the soft touch of gloss, every shade on this list brings its own energy. The best part is that there’s a copper for everyone, no matter your skin tone, style, or level of commitment. So if you’ve been waiting for the right time to try copper, consider this your sign. Pick your shade, grab your copper hair dye or extensions, and step into the glow.
