EP 196: Why Red is NOT the Best Filler (Unless You Want a Red Result)

May 22, 2025

Have you ever filled a blonde before going darker and ended up with unwanted red tones? You're not alone — most hairdressers are taught to fill with red, regardless of the target level. But here’s the truth: red is not a universal filler, and using it when it’s not needed can lock you into a cycle of toner corrections and dull results.

In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the most outdated techniques still taught in beauty school: using red as a default filler.
If your goal isn’t a level 5 red or deeper, red is the wrong choice.

We’ll explore:

🎯 Why red lives at level 6 on the lightening scale
🎯 When filling with red creates more problems than it solves
🎯 What undertones to use instead for levels 7, 8, and 9
🎯 How to avoid root glow, muddy results, and forced toner layering

Plus, I’ll walk you through how I approach real in-salon colour corrections using my target-tone filler method, with golds, orange-golds, and neutral browns that match your client’s desired outcome.

This episode is your reminder to formulate with intention, not habit. It’s time to rethink what you were taught and update your colour toolkit for better, brand-free results.

 

🎟️ Register now for my FREE online class:
Create Predictable Red & Copper Hair Colour WITHOUT The Costly Mistakes & Refunds
Finally, stop the root glow, banding, and freakouts once and for all — and start colouring with confidence.
👉 Click here to save your seat and learn more.

📝 Show notes and episode blog:
👉 https://www.kristinarussell.com.au/196

📲 Follow @colourkristina on Instagram
👉 https://www.instagram.com/colourkristina

📩 Got questions or want to bring me into your salon for training?
Email me at [e-mail] or send me a DM.

⭐️ Ready to go deeper into formulation and colour correction?
My signature online course Hair Painting for Redheads, is designed to help you confidently customise reds, coppers, and colour corrections using any salon brand.

This episode is for every hairdresser who’s ever been told, “just fill with red.” Let’s end that myth once and for all.