We’ll get right to the point: obtaining a completely chemical-free hair color is nearly impossible. Not to mention that phrases like ‘natural’ and ‘organic’ aren’t regulated, so even if you see them splashed across the label of hair color, such promises should be taken with a grain of salt.
That being said, if you want a more natural hair color, whether you’re pregnant, vegan, or simply trying to be a more aware consumer, your best chance is to conduct some ingredient research and know which ones to avoid.
One large one? PPD, or para-phenylenediamine, has the potential to induce anything from a modest skin response to, oh bad, anaphylactic shock. 1 (Fortunately, the latter is quite rare.) “Every time you dye your hair, your immune system detects a foreign particle on the scalp,” explains My.Haircare co-founder Rob Forgione.
“Most of the time there isn’t an issue, but there may be times when someone has a PPD color on their hair and has a reaction.” And he says that this may happen after 40 years or for the first time. Another item to avoid is ammonia, which may be detrimental to your hair, as well as resorcinol, which may interfere with thyroid function.2
The good news is that there are several plant- and henna-based hair colors available that are a gentler and less harmful alternative to standard dyes.
Check out our picks for the best natural hair dyes below.
1. Clairol Natural Instincts is the best drugstore.
This low-cost purchase is ultra-gentle and ammonia-free, and it’s manufactured with 80% organically derived components like coconut and aloe vera, to name a few. Because it’s a semi-permanent color (it should last up to 28 washes), it’s perfect for blending in minor quantities of gray or boosting your original hue and gloss rather than a major color change. Nonetheless, there are over 35 hues to pick from, including a wide range of blonde, brown, black, and red tones.
What We Like
- A wide spectrum of colors
- Affordable
- Hydrating
What We Don’t Like
- Not good for a full color change.
2. Rainbow Research has the best henna. Hair Color with Henna
If you want to go completely natural, henna-based color is the only way to go. This recipe contains nothing but henna, which comes in nine different colors. Keep in mind that application takes some practice (you add boiling water to the powder to get an oatmeal-like consistency before painting into your hair), and the color only lasts four to six weeks. Nonetheless, satisfied customers rave not just about the natural recipe but also about how natural the end effect is.
What We Like
- Totally natural
- a short list of ingredients
- Affordable
What We Don’t Like
- The application period is lengthier than those of other choices.
3. Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit is the best permanent hair color.
This company claims to have created the first’six-free’ permanent hair color that is devoid of ammonia, parabens, resorcinol, PDD, phthalates, and gluten. Instead, it contains moisturizing and nourishing elements like keratin and argan oil to improve the look and feel of your strands. Bonus marks for the complete gray covering and the thick cream consistency that doesn’t run or drop.
What We Like
- A wide spectrum of colors
- Hydrating
- No dripping or running
What We Don’t Like
- More expensive than other choices
4. Manic Panic Virgin Snow (Toner) – Classic High Voltage – Best for Bright Colors
If you want to use bright, rainbow-inspired hues, this is a terrific option. The formula is devoid of PPD, ammonia, resorcinol, and parabens, as well as being vegan and cruelty-free. Not to mention that there are over 40 stylish colours to choose from (and even some that will glow under a black light if you really want to get wild.) The color will last up to six weeks, but remember that the most brilliant effects will be obtained on hair that is either naturally light or has already been bleached.
What We Like
- A wide spectrum of colors
- Ammonia-free
- Long-lasting
What We Don’t Like
- For the finest effects, dark hair must be bleached.
5. Schwarzkopf Simply Color is ideal for dark hair.
This permanent color comes in 18 different colors, nine of which are aimed toward a variety of brown and black tones. It’s devoid of ammonia, alcohol, and silicones, and it’s also dermatologist-tested, which is great for folks with sensitive scalps. Still, the color is full-on permanent, incredibly vivid, and claims to cover 100% of gray hair, which is always a benefit, especially on darker hair.
What We Like
- Ammonia-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Simple to clean
What We Don’t Like
- Color does not match the package, according to reviewers.
FAQ
What Should You Look for in Natural Hair Dye?
Without the Big Three
If you want a more natural hair coloring, avoid the following three key chemicals: ammonia, PPD, and resorcinol.
The Protection
Many of the more natural hair colors on the market are semi-permanent, which means they will gradually wash away. Permanent formulations, on the other hand, are the way to go if you want a more dramatic outcome and/or need gray coverage.
What natural dyes can I use on my hair?
Henna is a popular alternative to store-bought colours for colouring hair. It’s a plant-based dye that deposits color in the form of red, dark brown, or black. Black tea for dark hair, chamomile for blondes, and cranberry for reds are some more natural hair colour possibilities. Remember that your effects may be far more modest than if you used standard hair dye.
How can I naturally color my gray hair?
Henna powder is an excellent option for dyeing gray hair. Henna comes in a variety of colors and is easier to regulate than certain other plant-based home-dying processes, such as coffee or tea.
How can I colour my hair at home without hurting it?
You may colour your hair at home without hurting it by utilizing a substance that contains no additives, such as pure henna. To avoid harming the hair, do not keep it on for too long. Otherwise, you can go with a demi or semi-permanent color that deposits color rather than using peroxide or bleach to lift and destroy hair.
