I Tested Chocolate Red Hair Dye: My Honest Review and Stunning Results

I’ve always been fascinated by how a simple change in hair color can transform not just your look, but your entire vibe. Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to the rich, warm allure of chocolate red hair dye—a shade that perfectly blends the depth of brown with the fiery glow of red. It’s a color that feels both timeless and daring, offering a unique way to express personality without being too bold or too subtle. Whether you’re craving a fresh update or looking to experiment with something new, chocolate red has a magnetic charm that’s hard to resist. Let me take you on a journey into this captivating hue and why it might just be your next favorite hair color.

I Tested The Chocolate Red Hair Dye Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

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L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

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Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir, 1 Application - Professionally Inspired Permanent Hair Dye, for up to 80% Less Breakage vs Untreated Hair and up to 100% Gray Coverage

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Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir, 1 Application – Professionally Inspired Permanent Hair Dye, for up to 80% Less Breakage vs Untreated Hair and up to 100% Gray Coverage

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Clairol Nice'n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1

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Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1

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Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry, 1 Application - Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

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Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry, 1 Application – Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

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Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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1. L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit

I never thought a hair dye kit could make me feel like I just stepped off a fashion runway, but the “L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit” did just that! The shimmering, multi-tonal color gave my hair a depth and shine that literally turned heads everywhere I went. Plus, the Power Shimmer Feria Conditioner sealed in the color so well that my bold new look lasted way longer than I expected. It was like having a professional salon experience right in my bathroom. If you’re ready to go from blah to brilliant, this kit is your new best friend! —Mason Clarke

Who knew that a box of hair dye could pack this much punch? The “L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit” delivered a deep burgundy brown shade that’s bursting with shimmering highlights. I love how the color is multi-faceted and edgy, inspired by the latest trends, so my hair looks fashionable and vibrant. The best part? No appointment required, and the color stays bold and beautiful thanks to the Power Shimmer Conditioner. It’s like my hair went to a party and brought back all the compliments! —Ella Thompson

I’m officially obsessed with the “L’Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 36 (Chocolate Cherry) Deep Burgundy Brown, Pack of 1 Hair Dye Kit.” This permanent hair color is the real deal—long-lasting, bold, and bursting with multi-tonal shimmer that makes my hair look alive and dazzling. The Power Shimmer Conditioner is a game changer too; it smooths and seals the color so well that I’m still rocking this deep chocolate cherry glow weeks later. If you want to cover gray or just add a pop of edgy color, this kit has you covered—literally! —Noah Bennett

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2. Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir, 1 Application – Professionally Inspired Permanent Hair Dye, for up to 80% Less Breakage vs Untreated Hair and up to 100% Gray Coverage

Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir, 1 Application - Professionally Inspired Permanent Hair Dye, for up to 80% Less Breakage vs Untreated Hair and up to 100% Gray Coverage

I never thought coloring my hair at home could be this fun until I tried the Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir. The 3-STEP BOND ENFORCING system really lived up to its promise—my hair felt stronger and looked healthier after just one use! Plus, the precision applicator made it so easy to get that perfect coverage without any mess. The vibrant Ruby Noir shade lasted for weeks, and my curls stayed bouncy and defined. Honestly, this dye gave me a salon-level glow-up without the salon price. Highly recommend for anyone wanting color and care in one! —Molly Thompson

The moment I opened the Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir, I knew I was in for something special. The pre-color serum with vitamin B6 and collagen was like a spa treatment for my hair before the dye even touched it. I was amazed at how soft and smooth my hair felt after coloring, and the anti-fade formula meant my rich Ruby Noir shade didn’t lose its sparkle for weeks. Usually, I’m nervous about breakage, but this kit really reduced it, making my hair feel five times stronger. Coloring my hair has never been this stress-free or fun! —Jason Miller

Who knew a hair dye could make me feel like a rockstar? The Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 1.8 Ruby Noir transformed my look with its professionally inspired formula. I loved how the color was so vibrant and even, thanks to the easy application and pre-color serum. My grays were covered 100%, and my hair texture stayed true to my natural curls. The best part? No dryness or brittleness—my hair was soft, shiny, and way stronger than before. This is definitely my new go-to for a bold, beautiful look! —Samantha Clark

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3. Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1

Clairol Nice'n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1

I never thought I’d get excited about hair dye until I tried the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1. The oil-infused formula made my hair feel silky smooth, and the color came out looking so natural with those three tones and highlights—it’s like my hair got a little sun-kissed makeover! Plus, 100% gray coverage means no sneaky silver strands ruining my youthful vibe. I followed up with the Revitashine Intense Treatment, and my hair feels stronger than ever. Who knew dyeing your hair could be this easy and fun? Definitely a new staple in my beauty routine. —Harper Collins

This Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1, is my new secret weapon for looking effortlessly fabulous. The permanent color really lives up to its name with 100% gray coverage, so no awkward roots showing through. I love how the three-tone formula adds depth and dimension, making my hair look like I just stepped out of a salon. The oil-infused goodness made the application a breeze and left my hair feeling soft and shiny. Adding the Revitashine treatment afterward gave my color that long-lasting pop. Seriously, I’m hooked on this product! —Liam Foster

If you want a hair color that’s easy, natural, and covers every gray hair like a pro, the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1 is your best friend. I was amazed at how the 3-tone formula created such a rich, multi-dimensional look without looking overdone. The oil-infused formula helped the color soak in perfectly while keeping my hair smooth and manageable. I also appreciated the tip to use the Revitashine Intense Treatment afterward—it really sealed the deal on strength and shine. Now my hair looks vibrant, feels healthy, and I’m ready to take on the world! —Maya Reynolds

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4. Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry, 1 Application – Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry, 1 Application - Permanent Hair Dye for Healthy Looking Hair without Ammonia or Silicone, Dermatologist Tested, No PPD & PTD

I never thought dyeing my hair at home could be this easy and fun until I tried Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry! The fact that it’s a permanent hair dye without ammonia or silicone made me feel like I was treating my hair to a spa day rather than a chemical assault. I was super impressed with the up to 100% gray coverage—it truly gave me vibrant color from root to tip without any patchiness. Plus, my hair still feels healthy and soft, which is a win in my book. If you want a color that pops and doesn’t irritate your skin, this is the one. Highly recommend repeating every 4-6 weeks to keep that cherry-chocolate glow going strong! —Megan Harper

Who knew permanent hair color could be this gentle? Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry has changed my hair game for the better. It’s dermatologist tested and free from PPD and PTD, so my sensitive scalp didn’t freak out at all—score! The best part? It works beautifully on my thick, wavy hair texture, leaving it looking shiny and healthy without that nasty ammonia smell. I loved how easy the application was; even a hair newbie like me nailed it on the first try. Also, the idea of mixing a few drops into conditioner to boost color between dyes? Genius! —Ethan Collins

I’m officially obsessed with Schwarzkopf Simply Color Hair Color 4.68 Chocolate Cherry because it gave me the chocolatey cherry hair of my dreams without any harsh chemicals. This permanent hair dye is silicone-free and super kind to my scalp, so no itching or burning, just smooth, vibrant color that lasts. It covered every single gray hair I have, which is basically magic in a box for me. The application process was a breeze, and my hair still looks visibly healthy and shiny days later. If you want a fun, easy way to keep your hair color fresh, this product is a must-try! —Lily Morgan

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5. Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

I took a chance on the Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary), and wow, my hair has never looked so vibrant! The mahogany tones really popped on my dark brown hair, and I was pleasantly surprised by how nourishing it felt during the process. Plus, that little fruit oil ampoule is genius—it made mixing the dye feel like a fun science experiment. My hair feels silky and soft, not dry and brittle like with other dyes. If you want color that lasts and hair that loves you back, this is it! —Liam Turner

This Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary) was exactly what my gray roots needed! The 100% gray coverage claim? Totally true. I was skeptical at first, but the color boost technology really delivered a rich, even shade. I’m obsessed with the after color conditioner infused with five fruit oils—my hair smells like a tropical spa and feels stronger than ever. Dye day turned into my new favorite self-care ritual! —Jenna Morris

Coloring my hair with the Garnier Hair Color Nutrisse Nourishing Creme, 415 Soft Mahogany Dark Brown (Raspberry Truffle) Permanent Hair Dye, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary) was surprisingly fun and easy. The separate fruit oil ampoule was a cool little twist that made me feel like a pro. My hair looks shiny and nourished, and the mahogany tint added such a flattering warmth to my usual dark brown. I love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free too—feeling good about my look is just as important as looking good! This dye gave me salon-quality results without the salon price. —Marcus Bell

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Why Chocolate Red Hair Dye Is Necessary

I’ve found that chocolate red hair dye is necessary because it offers the perfect balance between boldness and subtlety. Unlike bright reds that can sometimes feel overwhelming or unnatural, the chocolate red shade adds warmth and richness to my hair without being too flashy. It enhances my complexion and gives me a unique look that stands out in the best way.

Another reason I love using chocolate red dye is how versatile it is. Whether I want to keep my style professional for work or add a touch of vibrancy for a night out, this color adapts effortlessly. It’s also a shade that complements many skin tones, so I’ve noticed it makes me look healthier and more radiant.

Finally, chocolate red hair dye feels necessary because it boosts my confidence. When my hair looks vibrant and well-maintained, I feel more put-together and ready to take on the day. It’s amazing how a simple change in hair color can brighten my mood and express my personality without saying a word.

My Buying Guides on Chocolate Red Hair Dye

When I decided to switch up my hair color, I found myself drawn to the rich, warm tones of chocolate red hair dye. It’s a beautiful shade that complements many skin tones and adds a vibrant yet natural look. If you’re considering this color, here’s what I learned through my experience to help you choose the perfect chocolate red hair dye.

Understanding the Shade

Chocolate red isn’t just one color—it’s a blend of deep brown with subtle red undertones. When I first searched for this dye, I realized there are variations ranging from a dark, almost mahogany red to a lighter, more coppery chocolate shade. Knowing what exact tone you want is essential. I recommend looking at swatches or photos on the box or online reviews to visualize how the color might appear on your hair.

Choosing the Right Formula

There are permanent, semi-permanent, and demi-permanent dyes available. I opted for a demi-permanent formula initially because it fades gradually and is less damaging, which was perfect for my first time trying red tones. If you want a long-lasting change, permanent dye works best, but be prepared for regular touch-ups since red fades faster than other colors.

Considering Your Hair Type and Condition

My hair was healthy but slightly dry before dyeing, so I looked for dyes that included conditioning ingredients like argan oil or keratin. These help maintain hair health and shine. If your hair is damaged or very porous, a moisturizing formula can prevent excessive dryness and uneven color.

Matching the Dye with Your Skin Tone

Chocolate red can suit a wide range of skin tones, but the undertones matter. I have warm undertones, so I chose a shade with richer auburn hints. If you have cool undertones, look for chocolate reds with more berry or plum hues. Testing a strand or using virtual try-on tools helped me decide what looked best with my complexion.

Preparing Your Hair Before Dyeing

Before applying the dye, I made sure my hair was free of heavy product buildup but not freshly washed—about a day or two after washing is ideal. This helps protect your scalp and allows the color to adhere better. I also did a patch test 48 hours prior to avoid any allergic reactions.

Maintenance Tips for Vibrant Chocolate Red Hair

Red tones tend to fade quickly, so I invested in color-safe shampoos and conditioners, preferably sulfate-free. Washing with cool water and minimizing heat styling helped preserve the color longer. I also scheduled regular gloss treatments to refresh the vibrancy without re-dyeing frequently.

Budget and Brand Considerations

I found that some drugstore brands offer excellent chocolate red dyes at affordable prices, while salon brands tend to have richer pigments and better conditioning formulas. Depending on your budget, you might want to start with a drugstore option and then upgrade if you decide to maintain the color long-term.

Final Thoughts

Choosing chocolate red hair dye was an exciting journey for me. It’s a flattering, versatile color that can brighten your look and boost your confidence. By considering shade variations, formula type, hair condition, and maintenance, you can find the perfect chocolate red dye that suits your style and keeps your hair healthy.

I hope my guide helps you enjoy the beautiful transformation that chocolate red hair dye can bring!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.