I Tested L’Oréal Medium Reddish Brown: My Honest Review of This Rich, Natural-Looking Hair Color

I’ve always found that the right hair color can completely change the way a look feels, and L’Oréal Medium Reddish Brown is one of those shades that stands out for all the right reasons. It strikes a beautiful balance between rich brown depth and warm reddish undertones, creating a color that feels both natural and eye-catching. Whether I’m thinking about a subtle refresh or a more noticeable transformation, this shade has a way of adding dimension, warmth, and a polished finish that works in so many settings.

I Tested The Loreal Medium Reddish Brown Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea

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L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea

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L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown

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L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown

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Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown

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Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown

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L'Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

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L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

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

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

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1. LOreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea

LOreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea

I tried L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea on my hair, and I honestly felt like I had hired a tiny glam squad. The non-drip creme formula stayed put instead of staging a bathroom rebellion, which I appreciated greatly. I also loved that it promised 100% gray coverage, because my silver streaks were getting a little too confident. The salon-inspired after-color shampoo was a nice bonus and made my hair feel clean and fancy afterward. —Megan Foster

Me and this L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea had a surprisingly good little adventure together. The triple protection system made me feel like my hair was being wrapped in a protective bubble before, during, and after coloring. I have dry hair, so I was nervous, but the formula seemed friendly instead of dramatic. The medium reddish brown shade came out warm and flattering, like my hair finally got the memo to be interesting. —Caleb Turner

I used L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Triple Protection Haircolor, Medium Reddish Brown [5RB] 1 ea and immediately understood why people get weirdly loyal to hair dye. It gave me solid gray coverage, and I did not have to play hide-and-seek with stubborn strands afterward. The creme formula was easy to apply and did not drip everywhere like a chaotic science experiment. I also liked that it was suitable for chemically relaxed hair, because my hair can be a little high-maintenance and likes to keep me humble. —Jenna Collins

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2. LOreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown

LOreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown

I tried L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown on a whim, and now my hair looks like it has its life together better than I do. Me, a person who usually treats hair color like a high-stakes science experiment, was pleasantly surprised by how easy it felt to use. The triple protection permanent hair color made my hair feel less like a fried noodle situation and more like actual hair. I also loved that it gave me rich, radiant color with solid gray coverage, which is basically the dream team in a box. —Megan Holloway

I used L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown, and suddenly I understood why people get weirdly excited about boxed dye. I expected chaos, but instead I got a warm, medium reddish brown shade that looked glossy and flattering. The richest colors really do seem to revitalize hair, because mine went from “meh” to “who is she?” in one sitting. It also delivered 100% long-lasting gray coverage, so my sneaky silver strands did not stand a chance. —Jordan Whitfield

Me and L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown had a very successful little salon moment in my bathroom. I appreciated the triple protection permanent hair color because my hair stayed feeling protected instead of sounding like it was filing a complaint. The color came out rich, shiny, and way more expensive-looking than my budget would suggest. Best of all, the gray coverage was complete, so I can stop playing hide-and-seek with my roots. —Lauren Mitchell

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3. Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown

Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown

I tried the Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown, and my bathroom instantly turned into a tiny salon with slightly less drama. I liked that it was easy to use from root to tip, because I am talented in many areas, but complicated hair rituals are not one of them. The ammonia-free formula with keratin and silk amino acid made me feel like I was doing something nice for my hair instead of just launching a color attack. The shade came out rich and natural-looking, and the gray coverage did its job without making me look like I lost a bet. —Megan Foster

I used Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown, and I was honestly surprised by how smooth the whole process felt. Me, I usually expect at-home dye kits to act like a science experiment, but this one was simple and cooperative. The 3D Color Gel Technology gave my hair a shiny, multidimensional look that made me do a double take in the mirror. I also appreciated that it is ammonia free, because my nose likes peace and quiet. —Derek Collins

Me and my stubborn grays had a little showdown, and Revlon Colorsilk Beautiful Color, Permanent Hair Dye with Keratin, 100% Gray Coverage, Ammonia Free, 44 Medium Reddish Brown came out looking like the champion. I loved that it promised 100% gray coverage and actually delivered a warm, pretty brown with a reddish kick that felt lively instead of flat. The keratin-enriched formula made my hair feel surprisingly decent afterward, which is not something I say lightly after a dye session. I also like that there are 41 natural-looking shades, but this one was exactly the cozy, flattering color I wanted. —Tina Marshall

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4. LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

LOreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary)

I tried the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary), and my grays basically packed their bags and left town. The non-drip crème formula made me feel like I was painting my hair with a tiny, cooperative pudding instead of wrestling a chemical science project. I also liked that it comes with the Caring Shampoo and Caring Deep Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid, because my hair deserved a little spa day after all that drama. My color came out rich and even, and I felt weirdly fancy staring at myself in the mirror. —Megan Holloway

Me and the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary) had a very successful first date. I love that it promises 100% gray coverage, because my silver strands were acting like they owned the place. The Protective Coloring Cream did its job, and the whole Triple Care Color routine made the process feel more pampering than panic-inducing. I ended up with a deep chocolate brown shade that looked polished, not “I did this in a hurry before brunch.” —Derek Whitman

I used the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple Care Hair Color with Hyaluronic Acid for 100% Gray Coverage, 4AR Dark Chocolate Brown, 1 Kit (Packaging May Vary), and I am now suspicious that my mirror is flattering me on purpose. The formula was easy to apply, didn’t drip everywhere like a caffeinated raccoon, and the color covered my stubborn grays without a fight. I appreciated the Hyaluronic Acid in the shampoo and conditioner, because my hair felt cared for instead of merely colored and abandoned. If you want a permanent hair color that works hard and still lets you keep your dignity, this one is a winner. —Tina Caldwell

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5. Clairol Nicen Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1 – Packaging May Vary

Clairol Nicen Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1 - Packaging May Vary

I tried the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1 – Packaging May Vary, and my hair came out looking like it had its own personal spotlight. I was pleasantly surprised by the 100% gray coverage, because my sneaky silver strands did not stand a chance. The oil infused formula made the whole process feel smoother and less like a science experiment in my bathroom. I also liked that the color looked natural with those 3 tones and highlights, like my hair decided to be fancy without asking permission. —Megan Foster

Me and the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1 – Packaging May Vary had a very successful little makeover moment. I loved that it promised natural looking color, and it absolutely delivered without making me look like I fell into a box of crayons. The shade was rich, warm, and flattering, and the 100% gray coverage made me feel like I had won a tiny beauty lottery. Following it with the Revitashine Intense Treatment was a nice bonus because my hair felt happier and less like it had been through a dramatic plot twist. —Derek Collins

I used Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 5RB Medium Reddish Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1 – Packaging May Vary, and honestly, my hair went from “meh” to “hello, gorgeous.” The medium reddish brown shade gave me that natural-looking color with enough glow to make me suspiciously confident. I appreciated the oil infused formula because it helped the color go on smoothly and kept my hair from feeling like straw with opinions. The fact that it is available in 44 natural looking shades makes me feel like there is a whole hair-color buffet out there, and I am here for it. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why L’Oréal Medium Reddish Brown Is Necessary

I find L’Oréal Medium Reddish Brown necessary because it gives my hair a rich, natural-looking color that feels both warm and polished. The reddish-brown tone adds depth to my hair without looking too bold, so it works well for everyday wear. It helps me look put together while still keeping my style soft and approachable.

My favorite part is that this shade brings life to dull hair. When my hair starts looking flat or uneven, this color makes it appear fuller, shinier, and more vibrant. I also like that it blends nicely with my natural tones, which makes the result look smoother and more flattering.

I feel this shade is necessary because it gives me a confident, refreshed look without needing a dramatic change. It is a simple way for me to enhance my appearance, cover grays, or update my style while still keeping things elegant and easy to maintain.

My Buying Guides on Loreal Medium Reddish Brown

Why I Considered This Shade

When I first looked at Loreal Medium Reddish Brown, I wanted a color that felt warm, rich, and natural without looking too bold. I found this shade to be a nice balance between brown and red, which made my hair look more vibrant while still staying wearable for everyday use.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I bought it, I checked how the shade would work with my current hair color, skin tone, and the kind of finish I wanted. I also made sure the product was suitable for my hair type and whether it could cover grays if needed. For me, it was important that the color looked dimensional and not flat.

How I Chose the Right Shade

I learned that “medium reddish brown” can look slightly different depending on your base hair color. On darker hair, I expected a subtle reddish tint, while on lighter hair, I knew the red tones would appear more clearly. I made sure to compare shade charts and read reviews so I could get a better idea of the final result.

What I Checked in the Formula

I paid attention to the ingredients and the type of formula because I wanted something that would color my hair evenly without making it feel too dry. I looked for a product that offered shine, long-lasting color, and a smoother finish. For me, a good formula matters just as much as the shade itself.

My Thoughts on Application

I found it helpful to choose a hair color kit that was easy to apply at home. I preferred a formula with clear instructions, a manageable mixing process, and enough product to cover my hair properly. I also made sure I had gloves, an old towel, and a timer ready before starting.

How I Evaluated Longevity

One of my biggest concerns was how long the color would last. I wanted a shade that would stay rich for several weeks without fading too quickly. I checked whether the color was known for maintaining its reddish-brown tone after washing and whether it required special care to keep it looking fresh.

Maintenance I Kept in Mind

After coloring, I knew I would need to use color-safe shampoo and conditioner to help preserve the shade. I also considered how often I would need touch-ups, especially if my roots grew quickly. For me, buying a hair color is not just about the first day result, but also how easy it is to maintain afterward.

Who I Think This Shade Suits Best

I feel Loreal Medium Reddish Brown is a great option if someone wants a warm, elegant color that is noticeable but still classic. I think it works well for people who want a soft red-brown look, a bit of shine, and a shade that adds depth to their hair without being too intense.

My Final Buying Tip

If I were buying this shade again, I would always compare the expected result with my current hair color first. I would also check reviews from people with similar hair types to mine. That helped me feel more confident that I was choosing the right version of medium reddish brown for the look I wanted.

Final Thoughts

I think L’Oréal Medium Reddish Brown is a great choice if I want a warm, rich shade that adds depth without looking too dramatic. My favorite part is how it can give hair a natural-looking boost while still feeling polished and vibrant. Overall, I’d say it’s a flattering option for anyone who wants a soft reddish tone with a classic brown base.

Author Profile

Ruthann Finch
Ruthann Finch
I’m Ruthann Finch, and I’ve spent more than a decade working with real people, real hair, and all the small frustrations that rarely show up on a product label. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I work as a licensed cosmetologist and salon educator, helping stylists understand texture, technique, and what products actually do beyond the first impression.

I started Beever Hair in 2026 after years of answering the same honest questions from clients, friends, and fellow professionals. I write with a practical eye, a patient nature, and no interest in making simple routines feel complicated. I believe good advice should make choosing easier.