Mahogany VS Burgundy Hair Color, What's The Difference?

Two hair shades people talk about a lot more recently are mahogany and burgundy hair colors. These red shades have taken the industry by storm with their gorgeous, impressive hues.

So, deciding to go for one of these hues is a good idea, as each makes you look confident and romantic. However, for anyone looking into trying one of them, they might appear very similar at first, which can make it challenging to decide on a color on the go. (We wouldn't advise making a hasty decision).

That’s not to say you won’t notice any differences once you look closely. You will do so because there are unique features that distinguish them.

If you are curious to know about these colors— their tones, undertones, and characteristics to help you make a better choice—then keep reading to learn about the mahogany and burgundy hair colors.

What is Mahogany Hair Color?

Mahogany is a reddish-brown color inspired by the mahogany wood which develops a red tint as it matures. We find the color warm, rich, and elegant because of the blend of red and brown tones.

Mahogany is particularly an adaptable hair color, as it can be customized to suit any skin tone. This makes it a versatile and widely sought-after choice.

Characteristics of Mahogany

1. It's a mixture of red and brown.
2. It has a warm tone due to the brown in its base.
3. It is very versatile.

What is Burgundy Hair Color?

The color is named after the wine produced in the Burgundy region in France. It's vibrant, showing strength, passion, and energy. After a careful look, you'll see its predominant purple-red tones and a subtle brown tint that’s less pronounced than the purple.

Burgundy hair color can fit various skin tones since it has multiple shades. From darker tones to brighter ones, there are options for everyone.

Characteristics of Burgundy

1. It is a mix of dark red and dark purple.
2. The color has a reddish tone.
3. It's versatile.

Mahogany Vs Burgundy Hair Color: What are the Differences?

As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, mahogany and burgundy hair colors look quite similar and fall within the family of red. However, several factors still distinguish them. So, let's take a look.

1. Various Shades and Hue

Both colors have different hues that characterize them. While they are in the same red category, the color mixtures are different.

Mahogany is a mix of red and brown. On the other hand, burgundy has a mixture of predominant purple undertones with subtle brown. Its red tones are richer than mahogany.

2. Undertones

This is a key in differentiating mahogany from burgundy, as their undertones are not the same. Burgundy leans towards purple-red undertones, but mahogany uses warm, red-brown undertones. This difference gives them their unique character and charm.

3. Versatility

Compared to mahogany, burgundy isn’t very versatile. It can be difficult to blend with coloring techniques, and its reddish undertones limit the available choices. However, that's a different case for the other.

Due to the brown base, mahogany is quite versatile. It can suit all skin tones and blend easily with highlights, balayage, and other coloring techniques. Plus, it won't clash with colors.

4. Intensity

Throughout this article, we emphasized that although these colors fall in the same spectrum, they are different.

However, we must tell you that they can look similar, depending on the shade you choose. Bright or dark shades of these colors can appear the same, making it possible to interchange one for the other. Still, there's the popular belief that one remains deeper than the other, as to most people, burgundy appears deeper than mahogany.

5. Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance, mahogany wins. It's easier to maintain than burgundy, though, with proper care, both colors can look stunning.

However, these shades can fade if you do not care for them properly.

Note: Mahogany may fade to a dull brown, and burgundy might look reddish-brown.

6. Grey Hair

Do you have grey hair? You should choose a mahogany hair color if you do. This is because burgundy won’t conceal grey hair effectively; instead, it can turn grey strands into a purple-pink hue that might not suit your skin tone.

In contrast, mahogany will work perfectly, as it can make your grey hair unnoticeable. The color gives grey hair a golden shade, which will come off as gorgeous highlights.

7. Longevity

There’s a difference in how long these shades last. Mahogany penetrates the hair strands more deeply, meaning it lasts longer than burgundy. The color likewise doesn't fade easily and is easy to maintain.

In contrast, burgundy fades sooner and requires more maintenance. So, if you're not up for the task, mahogany is better. Mahogany also becomes a better option if you want something that lasts long.

Note: Once burgundy starts to fade, it takes more of a mahogany shade. If that happens, it's normal. It’s only a problem if it

occurs more quickly, which usually happens if you don't seal your cuticles.

What Shade Suits Your Skin?

Both mahogany and burgundy are beautiful hair colors you can wear. However, one might suit your skin more than the other. This is based on the shade.

Mahogany Hair Color

Mahogany is perfect for people with warm skin tones. If you have olive or golden undertones, it's even better since it complements them.

However, this doesn't mean other skin tones can't pull it off.

Those with cool undertones can also slay it, whether fair or dark. The color will add warmth to fair skin tones and enhance deeper skin tones.

It is a captivating color anyone can wear. That's right. Overall, it will suit all skin tones.

And if you recall, we mentioned that it is versatile. This means you can choose the right shade from all its shades to suit your skin.

Burgundy Hair Color

On the other hand, while burgundy may seem less versatile, it can actually suit anyone. It’s an excellent choice for those with fair or medium skin tones, as it can make your complexion pop. It also works well for individuals with warm or neutral undertones.

For those with fair skin, burgundy blends beautifully to create the perfect contrast. If you have a dark skin tone, then it also works. Just be prepared to embrace the warmth and vibrancy it'll give to your look.

How to Care for Your Hair Color?

Hair care is important for any color. It's what maintains it and keeps your colored hair healthy. The caring routainof colored wigs are the same.

If you're invested in the mahogany and burgundy shades, here is what you can do to keep them bright and fabulous.

1. Washing

Color-protecting products should be used for your routine. These products will keep the color from fading.

You also want to use moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, as they will help clean and soften your hair.

Deep conditioning can come in if you feel your hair is dry. It's a good way to restore moisture to your strands.

2. Rinsing

Whenever you rinse, do not use hot water on your hair. Hot water won't help in sealing your cuticles. So, it's best to use cold water.

3. Heat Protection

Straighteners and blow dryers are some heat tools that can damage your hair. Apart from that, they can make the color quickly fade. So, if you must use heating styling tools, apply a heat protectant on your hair. It works every time.

4. Take Precautions

Here are some  precautions you must take;

- Do not expose your hair to the sun. If you will be out for quite a while, wear UV protection. You can also use hats.

- Another thing you should stay away from is chlorinated water. It can strip and damage your hair.

5. Quality Products

Not all products are good for colored hair. Products containing sulfate, for example, may damage the hair. This means you can only go for high-quality products to keep your hair safe and prevent it from fading.

6. Speak to a Professional

A professional can help answer troubling questions and provide tips and advice about touch-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s answer a few questions in this section.

1. Is burgundy lighter than mahogany?

No, it’s the opposite. Burgundy is deeper than mahogany, which features a more reddish-brown tone.

2. What skin tone suits burgundy hair?

Burgundy hair would look good on any skin tone, whether dark-skinned or fair-skinned. The only problem will be if you have grey hair. Burgundy doesn't look good on grey hair.

3. What skin tone suits mahogany hair?

While the variant of mahogany that complements one's skin tone may be different from another, everyone looks great with mahogany hair color.

Make Your Choice

Mahogany and burgundy are two beautiful shades no one can resist. If you've read this far, then it means you also love them.

But that makes choosing between these colors challenging, right? Definitely! The good news is now you're more aware of their characteristics, the skin tones they complement, and their differences.

So, choosing won't be any longer difficult. And once you choose, we’d be happy to hear about it.