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Best Black Hair Dye: 10 Top-Rated Options for Stunning Ebony Locks (2024)

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best black hair dyeSeeking the finest black hair dye to attain those striking ebony locks? You’ve found the right place. This guide showcases the top 10 black hair dyes, detailing options that guarantee enduring color, minimal damage, and deep, dark tones.

Whether you’re an experienced colorist or a novice, these dyes provide exceptional results for a lustrous and alluring black hair color. Continue reading to discover your perfect match and elevate your hair color artistry.

Key Takeaways

  • Say goodbye to brassy undertones and hello to a dark, rich black with Schwarzkopf Live Colour+ Moisture Permanent Twilight Black. It’s a fan favorite for a reason, but remember to give your locks some extra TLC with a deep conditioning treatment afterward.
  • Don’t let black hair dye scare you if you have sensitive skin. Schwarzkopf Simply Color, Garnier Olia, and PHYTO Permanent Color are your allies for gentle, natural, and hypoallergenic options.
  • Embrace your inner raven with Arctic Fox Transylvania Semi-Permanent Hair Color Dye. It’s the go-to temporary black hair dye, loved by thousands for its easy removal and vibrant color that lasts for six washes.
  • Want a black dye that treats your hair like royalty? SoftSheen-Carson Dark & Natural Hair Color for Men and Clairol Natural Instincts Semi-Permanent Hair Dye for Men are your knights in shining armor for natural-looking and long-lasting results.

10 Best Black Hair Dyes

You’ll find a range of top-rated black hair dyes to choose from, including popular brands like Naturtint, Garnier, Clairol, and L’Oreal. These options offer varying formulas and benefits, from permanent to demi-permanent dyes, allowing you to select the best black hair color for your needs and preferences.

1. Naturtint Permanent Ebony Black

Naturtint Permanent Hair Color 1NView On Amazon
Naturtint Permanent Ebony Black is your go-to for a rich, intense black hue without the harsh chemicals. You’ll love its ammonia-free, vegan formula that’s packed with nourishing ingredients like oleic acid and meadowfoam seed oil.

This gel-based dye offers up to 100% gray coverage, giving you long-lasting, natural-looking results. With 32 mixable shades, you can customize your perfect black.

While it might be pricier in stores, you can snag it for less on Amazon. Plus, you’ll get a bonus high-end conditioner to keep your locks silky smooth.

Best For: Those seeking a rich, intense black hair color without harsh chemicals.

Pros
  • Up to 100% gray coverage
  • Vegan and cruelty-free formula
  • Enriched with nourishing ingredients
Cons
  • Difficult to find in some stores
  • May leave a waxy feel on hair after drying
  • Color developer may leak inside the box

2. Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme

Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme,View On Amazon
If you’re seeking a nourishing, permanent hair dye, Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme is an excellent option. This non-drip creme formula is designed to colour and nourish your hair simultaneously. It’s enriched with a blend of triple fruit oils, including avocado, olive, and shea, ensuring your hair is conditioned and healthy-looking.

The kit also includes grape seed and avocado oil for added benefits. With its colour boost technology, this hair dye provides long-lasting, vibrant colour. It’s an all-in-one solution for achieving the black hair colour you desire while maintaining hair health.

Best For: Those seeking a nourishing and permanent hair dye.

Pros
  • Nourishes hair with a blend of triple fruit oils (avocado, olive, and shea)
  • Non-drip creme formula for easy application
  • Long-lasting, vibrant colour with colour boost technology
Cons
  • May not be suitable for all hair types
  • Can be more expensive than other hair dyes
  • May require multiple applications to achieve desired colour

3. Clairol Nice’n Easy Hair Dye

Clairol NiceView On Amazon
Clairol Nice’n Easy Hair Dye is a great choice for a simple, yet effective permanent hair dye. It creates three salon tones and highlights in one step, covering 100% of grays. With a long-lasting formula, this dye provides up to eight weeks of rich, black color.

The easy-to-apply cream formula is available in 50 shades, ensuring you find your perfect match. For best results, use on dark blonde to medium brown hair. On gray hair, the color will appear lighter, creating a highlighted effect. If you’re a natural redhead, expect a lighter red result.

Best For: Those looking for an easy and effective permanent hair dye with natural-looking color and highlights.

Pros
  • Creates three salon tones and highlights in one step
  • Covers 100% of grays
  • Long-lasting color up to 8 weeks
Cons
  • Not recommended for hair lighter than dark blonde
  • Color may appear lighter on gray hair
  • Limited shade range for natural redheads

4. Loreal Paris Superior Preference Fade Defying

LView On Amazon
Loreal Paris Superior Preference Fade Defying is a permanent hair dye that delivers gorgeous, fade-defying color with dimension. It has been the gold standard in hair dyes since 1973 and is used by millions worldwide.

With over 50 shades available, it offers a wide range of options for those seeking a bold, new look. The gel hair dye formula is easy to apply and includes a Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum to maintain color vibrancy and provide silk and shine.

Whether you want to cover greys, add highlights, or try an ombre look, this hair dye is suitable for all hair types, colors, lengths, and textures.

Best For: Those seeking long-lasting, fade-defying hair color with a wide range of shade options.

Pros
  • Over 50 shades available
  • Gel hair dye formula for easy application
  • Includes Care Supreme Conditioner with Shine Serum for color vibrancy and shine

5. SoftSheen Carson Dark Lovely Hair Color

SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely FadeView On Amazon
SoftSheen Carson Dark and Lovely Hair Color is a great option for those seeking a permanent hair dye that nourishes and protects the hair. The formula is infused with shea, avocado, and olive fruit oils, providing intense nourishment from root to tip.

This product helps protect colored hair from breakage, leaving it shiny and silky with rich color that lasts up to eight weeks.

As a brand, SoftSheen Carson has provided beauty products designed specifically for the needs of consumers of African descent for over 110 years. They celebrate unique looks and styles with treatments, colors, and styling products for all hair types.

Best For: Those seeking a permanent hair dye that nourishes and protects the hair.

Pros
  • Nourishes hair from root to tip with shea, avocado, and olive fruit oils
  • Protects colored hair from breakage
  • Leaves hair shiny and silky with rich color that lasts up to 8 weeks
Cons
  • Not suitable for all hair types
  • May not provide enough coverage for gray hair
  • Can be expensive

6. Schwarzkopf Simply Color Truffle Brown

Schwarzkopf Simply Color Permanent HairView On Amazon
Schwarzkopf Simply Color in Truffle Brown is a fantastic option for those seeking a gentle, natural hair dye. This cream formula is infused with botanical oat milk, soy protein, and argan oil, providing a nourishing treatment for your hair.

It’s free of harsh chemicals like PPD, PTD, ammonia, alcohol, and silicone, making it ideal for sensitive skin and a comfortable coloring experience. You can expect up to 100% gray coverage, resulting in vibrant and even color.

For hair longer than shoulder-length, it’s recommended to use two boxes for full coverage.

Best For: Those looking for a gentle, natural hair dye that provides up to 100% gray coverage.

Pros
  • Dermatologist tested, non-irritating to the skin
  • Free from harsh chemicals like PPD, PTD, ammonia, alcohol, and silicone
  • Contains nourishing botanical oat milk, soy protein, and argan oil
Cons
  • May require two boxes for hair longer than shoulder-length
  • Allergy potential to PPD and PTD should be considered
  • Schwarzkopf’s Color Boost may be needed to extend color

7. Creme of Nature Honey Blonde Hair Color

Creme of Nature Moisture RichView On Amazon
Creme of Nature Honey Blonde Hair Color is an excellent choice for those seeking a rich, long-lasting hair color that leaves hair feeling healthy and looking shiny. Its unique formula is infused with silk proteins that penetrate each strand, ensuring your hair looks and feels healthier than before you colored it.

The ammonia-free dye includes a conditioner that deeply nourishes your hair, leaving it soft, smooth, and full of life. This product is a great option for achieving stunning ebony locks that will turn heads.

Best For: Individuals seeking a rich, long-lasting hair color that leaves hair feeling healthy and looking shiny.

Pros
  • Infused with silk proteins that penetrate every strand for healthier looking hair
  • Ammonia-free formula is gentle on hair
  • Includes a conditioner that deeply nourishes hair for a soft, smooth, and healthy appearance
Cons
  • May not be suitable for all hair types or colors
  • Results may vary depending on the condition of the hair
  • May take multiple applications to achieve desired color

8. Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Black Hair Dye

Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent HairView On Amazon
Clairol Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Black Hair Dye is a top choice for those seeking a gentle, vegan formula that lasts up to 28 washes. This dye blends away gray hairs while being free of ammonia and added parabens, making it suitable for all hair types and textures.

With 38 natural shades, you can find your perfect black, brunette, blonde, or red hue. The compact packaging measures 2.37 x 3.56 x 6.31 inches, and the dye weighs 6.88 ounces.

Achieve gorgeous, ebony locks with Clairol’s Natural Instincts Demi-Permanent Hair Color.

Best For: Individuals seeking a gentle and vegan hair dye that blends away gray hairs.

Pros
  • Gentle formula with no ammonia or added parabens
  • Vegan formula
  • Blends away gray hairs
Cons
  • May not provide as long-lasting results as permanent hair dyes
  • Limited color selection compared to some other brands
  • May not be suitable for all hair textures and types

9. PHYTO Phytocolor Permanent Blonde Hair Color

PHYTO Phytocolor Permanent Hair ColorView On Amazon
PHYTO Phytocolor Permanent Blonde Hair Color is a great option if you’re looking for a blonde shade that’s easy to apply and gentle on your scalp.

This permanent hair color is ammonia-free and made with 70% botanicals, so it’s a natural and safe choice. It covers greys well and leaves your hair with a multifaceted color that shines in the sun.

Plus, it comes with a hair-protecting mask to keep your locks healthy. However, keep in mind that this product may not be suitable for lighter hair or previously dyed hair, and the packaging and labeling could be better.

Best For: Those seeking a natural and gentle way to achieve a blonde shade.

Pros
  • Ammonia-free and made with 70% botanicals for a safe and gentle experience
  • Effectively covers gray hair
  • Produces a multifaceted color that shines in the sun, complete with a protective hair mask
Cons
  • May not be suitable for lighter hair or previously dyed hair
  • Packaging and labeling could be improved
  • Availability in the US may be limited

10. Revlon ColorSilk Permanent Hair Color

Revlon ColorSilk Beautiful Color PermanentView On Amazon
If you’re seeking a salon-quality hair dye that delivers rich, long-lasting color, Revlon ColorSilk Permanent Hair Color is an excellent choice.

This top-rated product provides 100% gray coverage and is designed to be easy to use, with a non-drip formula that ensures a mess-free application.

Enriched with keratin and silk amino acids, it nourishes your hair while delivering vibrant, silky-smooth results.

With 41 natural-looking shades to choose from, you can find the perfect match for your desired look.

Best For: Individuals seeking salon-quality hair color with 100% gray coverage and nourishing ingredients.

Pros
  • Non-drip formula for easy application
  • Keratin and silk amino acids nourish hair
  • 41 natural-looking shades for customization
Cons
  • Product details and statistics not provided
  • Model and country of origin not relevant to product efficacy
  • Weight and dimensions not indicative of product quality

Dyeing Black Hair Without Bleaching

Dyeing Black Hair Without Bleaching
Dyeing black hair can be tricky, but it’s possible to achieve stunning results without resorting to bleaching.

If you’re looking for a subtle change, semi-permanent color is your best bet. This type of hair dye will gently coat your strands, giving them a temporary new shade that washes out after a few shampoos.

Root touch-ups are also an option for maintaining your desired color, especially if you’re going for a more natural look.

For those who want to experiment with bolder colors, brands like Bleach London offer a range of semi-permanent dyes that can be applied at home without causing hair damage or color fading.

Least Damaging Hair Dye Options

Least Damaging Hair Dye Options
Now that you know how to dye your black hair without bleaching, it’s time to explore the least damaging hair dye options available. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the realm of hair dye and make informed choices for your locks:

  1. Opt for salon-quality ingredients: When selecting an at-home hair dye, look for brands that use salon-quality ingredients. These dyes often contain hair-healthy additives like keratin and argan oil, which nourish and protect your hair during the coloring process.
  2. Go semi-permanent: Semi-permanent hair colors are gentler on your hair than permanent dyes. They typically last for about six weeks and gradually fade, reducing the risk of harsh lines or regrowth.
  3. Avoid ammonia: Ammonia is a common ingredient in hair dyes, but it can be damaging to your hair. Look for ammonia-free formulas that are gentler on your strands and scalp.
  4. Read the reviews: Before committing to a hair dye, check out reviews from other users. Pay attention to their experiences with the dye’s longevity, ease of application, and, most importantly, its impact on hair health.

Achieving Pure Black Hair Color

Achieving Pure Black Hair Color
Achieving that perfect, jet-black hair color can be a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, you can get the vibrant results you desire.

Whether you’re going for a bold, blue-black shade or a classic, natural black, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, if you’re looking to darken your hair, it’s important to choose a shade that will complement your skin tone. Remember, you can always go darker, but lightening dark hair is a whole other process.

When it comes to box dye, it’s imperative to follow the instructions carefully and perform a patch test to guarantee you get the color you want. For permanent at-home hair color, sectioning your hair and starting at the roots will make sure even coverage.

With black hair dye, it’s especially important to protect your skin from staining, so don’t skip the Vaseline or lip balm along your hairline. If you’re looking to create custom shades, color mixing can be a fun way to experiment, but be sure to patch test any new colors as well.

Maintaining Long-Lasting Black Hair Color

Maintaining Long-Lasting Black Hair Color
Maintaining your stunning ebony locks requires some effort, but it’s worth it to keep that salon-fresh look. Here are some hair dye tips to make sure your color stays vibrant and damage is kept to a minimum:

  • Wash your hair less frequently. This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the best ways to make your hair color last longer. Aim for 2-3 times a week, and use dry shampoo in between washes to keep your hair looking and feeling fresh.
  • When you do wash, use a sulfate-free or color-safe shampoo. Sulfates can strip the color from your hair, so it’s best to avoid them.
  • Protect your hair from the sun. UV rays can cause color to fade, so wear a hat or use a UV-protective spray when you’re out and about.
  • Use heat protection spray before styling. This will create a barrier between your hair and the heat of styling tools, reducing damage and color fade.
  • Strengthen your hair with keratin or protein treatments. These treatments will help repair any damage caused by the dyeing process and keep your hair strong and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best black hair dye to use?

The best black hair dye depends on your specific needs. Schwarzkopf Live Colour+ Moisture Permanent Twilight Black is a popular choice for a reason: it’s dark, lasts well, and doesn’t have red/brassy undertones. However, it can leave hair dry, so deep conditioning is a must.

Can I dye my black hair without bleaching?

Yes, you can dye black hair without bleaching. You can use demi-permanent or permanent hair dye to achieve various shades, including light brown, red, and magenta. Temporary dyes are also an option for a commitment-free change.

Which hair dye is the least damaging?

If you’re seeking a dye that’s gentle on your hair, opt for low-ammonia or ammonia-free formulas. Some dyes use conditioning ingredients to fortify and hydrate hair, like keratin, silk extracts, and natural oils. For a semi-permanent option, try Arctic Fox’s Wrath shade.

How to get pure black hair?

To achieve pure black hair, you can use a combination of natural dyes and hair care practices. For example, you can mix henna with indigo, or try amla powder, black pepper, lemon, Bhringraj, or mustard oil.

What is the best black hair dye for sensitive skin?

If you’re looking for a black hair dye that’s suitable for sensitive skin, opt for natural, organic, and hypoallergenic options. Avoid harsh chemicals like PPD and ammonia. Try Schwarzkopf Simply Color, Garnier Olia, or PHYTO Permanent Color.

How long does black hair dye last on grey hair?

How long are you willing to wait between root touch-ups? Black hair dye on grey hair typically needs a touch-up every three weeks. However, if you don’t have grey hair, you can wait five to six weeks.

What is the best temporary black hair dye?

If you want a temporary black hair dye, try the Arctic Fox Transylvania Semi-Permanent Hair Color Dye. It’s a favourite among reviewers, with 5 stars from over 64,000 users. It lasts for around six washes, but may need a clarifying shampoo to fully remove.

What is the best black hair dye for men?

Like a raven’s feather, black hair dye is a bold choice. For a natural-looking black hair dye, try SoftSheen-Carson Dark & Natural Hair Color for Men, or Clairol Natural Instincts Semi-Permanent Hair Dye for Men.

Can I dye my hair black at home?

Yes, you can dye your hair black at home. Using a temporary dye is a great way to test the look without committing to a permanent change.

Conclusion

Black hair dye can be a bold and beautiful choice, and with the right products and techniques, you can achieve and maintain stunning ebony locks.

This article has highlighted the 10 best black hair dyes for achieving a deep, dark, and lustrous black hair color. Additionally, we’ve provided insights into dyeing black hair without bleaching, minimizing damage, and preserving your desired shade.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced colorist, you now have the tools to commence your journey toward achieving and maintaining the perfect black hair dye.

References
  • byrdie.com
  • stylecraze.com
  • elitedaily.com
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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.