Just a PSA: this article is brought to you without toxins. Yep, that’s right, you won’t be finding any ammonia in this article, just all natural hair dye. Because honestly our strands suffer on the daily for the sake of styling and staining, and they deserve a break! But they also deserve the best colour on offer.
So, we’re here to show you how easy the switch to a natural hair dye is. And as if box dyes weren’t simple enough, these are the best natural hair dyes that you can easily shop from the supermarket to the chemist…
2024’s Top 3 Natural Hair Dyes
- Garnier Olia, $19.99, RY Beauty
- Schwarzkopf Simply Colour, $19.99, Priceline
- Clairol Natural Instincts, $19.99, Priceline
Best Natural Hair Dyes
Garnier Olia
From $19.99 at RY Beauty
We say: A hair dye powered by oil? What will they think of next? In the meantime, let your strands soak up this four flower-powered oil luxe dye. Garnier has come up with the ‘oil delivery system’ which propels the colour deep into your strands and negates the need for ammonia (a toxin-free heaven if we ever heard of one!). The result? Perfectly pigmented tresses that are beyond healthy, silky and hydrated!
You say: “ Whilst it developed my hair felt super greasy but once I rinsed & used the enclosed conditioner my hair was hydrated, soft & smooth. The colour is perfect over my dark coloured hair & it covered my greys perfectly. I would definitely purchase this product again.” – cityglenda
Want to read more? Read more Garnier Olia Reviews here…
Key features:
- 60 per cent oil formula
- Adds shine to strands
- Propels nourishing formula deep into the hair fibre
Available at:
- $19.99 from Ry Beauty
- $22 from Woolworths
- $10 (usually $20) from Coles
Schwarzkopf Simply Colour
From $19.99 at Priceline
We say: Schwarzkopf designed this dye for everyone whose strands needed a little extra boost, as well as a fresh tint. So if you’re suffering from a sensitive scalp, don’t step away from this dermatologist-tested dye. Formulated with nourishing oat milk, soy protein and argan oil, this gentle dye will leave your strands with a wonderful natural result.
You say: “While I never get black my hair tends to look black after colouring with my regular dye which is a dark brown. My intention was to just buy black. Off to the supermarket I go to purchase this new product with great reviews that also happened to be on sale. No black! Ok, next colour down Dark Brown 3.0 will probably look black and blend in. In preparation I followed my usual routine and applied chap stick around my hairline framing my face to avoid skin from …you know how it goes! Although my hair is relatively long it’s quite thin. The amount of dye was ample to saturate my entire hair, root to tips. Processing time is 30 mins but got distracted so 45 mins later I was rinsing. No scalp irritation. Wow what a surprise…my hair was not black. It’s a really lovely brown from roots to ends with no residue or staining to scalp or hairline…my hair feels soft and much more natural looking. Very healthy shine.” – Helen1966
Want to read more? Read more Schwarzkopf Simply Colour Reviews here…
Key features:
- Ammonia and silicone-free
- Gentle on scalp
- Grey coverage permanent dye
Available at:
- $19.99 from Priceline
- $10 (usually $20) from Woolworths
- $16.99 (usually $19.99) from Chemist Warehouse
Clairol Natural Instincts
From $19.99 at Priceline
We say: If you’ve heard the horror stories of people developing a hair dye allergy (AKA our worst nightmare!), then Clairol’s 80 per cent naturally derived hair dye is for you. It features a revolutionary molecule that will reduce the chance of developing the dreaded hair dye allergy! The semi-permanent colour is enriched with coconut oil and aloe vera for healthy hair that is set to last for approx 28 washes; that’s like three months!
You say: “Great value colour. Definitely a great option if you’re short on cash and can’t afford the salon. It’s quite a good quality colour and looks great. It also smells really good too- I think it’s the coconut oil.” -JessieNewton
Want to read more? Read more Clairol Natural Instincts Reviews here…
Key features:
- Allergy-gentle molecule
- Fresh floral scent
- Formulated with nourishing coconut oil and aloe vera
Available at:
- $9.99 (usually $19.99) from Priceline
- $20 from Big W
- $9.99 (usually $19.99) from Chemist Warehouse
L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss
From $19.99 at Priceline
We say: If you’re after colour that comes alive, you’ve come to the right place. This shining dye will add a lustrous sheen to your strands that’s promised to last for up to 28 washes! Not only is it wonderfully long-lasting but this dye is also enriched with royal jelly for ultra-nourished, soft and voluptuous strands.
You say: “I’ve been using casting on and off for years. I find it covers my few greys really well and makes the rest of my hair more even and lustrous. Generally I’ll use a mid brown cool tone (I think truffle) if all over colour. Where it really excels I find, for me, is as a toner to bring my low lights back down low again when the hairdresser’s toner comes to an end. If I use the light brown shade in a cool tone it looks like I had it done in the salon.” -Tinksuze
Want to read more? Read L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss Reviews here…
Key features:
- Enriched with Royal Jelly
- Colour lasts up to 28 shampoos
- Formula helps protect the hair
Available at:
- $19.99 from Priceline
- $20 from Woolworths
- $13.99 (usually $19.99) from Chemist Warehouse
Manic Panic
From $28.95 at Oz Hair and Beauty
We say: If you’re ready to join the colour rebellion then Manic Panic is the brand for you. With an almighty shade range from hot pink to a classic copper, you can’t go wrong with their guilt-free cream dye. Made in the USA, the dyes are completely free of all the nasties, so you know your strands won’t be sacrificed in the name of fresh colour.
Key features:
- Formula provides conditioning benefits
- Vegan formula
- Colour lasts 4-6 weeks
Available at:
- $23.95 (usually $28.95) from Oz Hair and Beauty
- $21.70 (usually $28.95) from Catwalk
JUSTICE Professional Ammonia Free Permanent Colour
From $17.95 at Justice Professional
We say: Have you ever braved the at-home dye only to find the harsh chemicals irritate your skin? We’re sure you vowed to never again dye your hair at home. What if we told you that Justice Professional have formulated a permanent dye so gentle and natural that you’ll not only be left with silky strands and a fresh colour (thanks to the hard-working five essential oils in the formula) but there will even be no signs of a sore scalp?! Yes indeed, go check this divine smelling dye out for yourself!
You say: “I didn’t realise what I was missing before trying this ammonia free dye. It makes the whole dying process completely different and so much more enjoyable. It was such a relief not to have that overwhelming chemical bleach smell, and the added fragrance is nice and light. Normally box dye makes my eyes water, but not with this dye. Also because of the lack of these harsh chemicals, where I did get a bit of dye on my forehead, it came over really easily and without irritation. I’m never going back to a normal chemical box dye again!” –Petite Pivoine
Want to know more? Read more Justice Profession Ammonia Free Permanent Colour Reviews here…
Key features:
- 4.5 stars on beautyheaven tried and tested
- Odourless formula
- Oil formula helps prevent hair dehydration
Available at:
- $17.95 from Justice Professional
Adore Plus Semi Permanent Color
From $14.95 at Oz Hair and Beauty
We say: As much as we want our hair the perfect trending colour, we want it to be nourished and luscious (no straw-like strands here!). That’s why the nourishing power behind the Adore Plus range is so necessary. What is that nourishing powerhouse, we hear you asking? Argan oil and vitamin E. It’s basically a hair treatment, okay not quite – but it’ll leave your locks lush.
Key features:
- Semi-permanent colour
- Infused with argan oil and vitamin E
- Made in the USA
Available at:
- $7.48 (usually $14.95) from Oz Hair and Beauty
- $13.75 (usually $14.95) from My Hair Care and Beauty
- $10 (usually $22) from SSS Hair
Naturally Brite Henna Hair Dye
From $14.99 from Cosmetic Capital
We say: So we’ve all heard of henna tattoos, but did you know that you can dye your hair with henna? Unlike more permanent dyes, henna doesn’t penetrate the hair cortex, so you’re never going to be left with a damaged mess! Naturally Brite can be applied in four different ways (each giving various results). But no matter the application, the plant-based dye will surely leave your strands shaded to perfection.
Key features:
- Natural dye made from henna
- Designed to be able to be applied in multiple ways
- Made in a PRC container
Available at:
- $6.95 (usually $14.99) from Cosmetic Capital
Color & Soin Permanent Hair Dye with Vegetal Extracts
From $19.95 at Color & Soin
We say: Is there anything better than a two-in-one product? We don’t think so! This vegetal extract, natural oil-enriched dye is also looking out for your summer strands. WIth a resistance to UV rays and chlorine your locks will be left hydrated all summer long. Boasting a 100 per cent grey coverage claim, you can trust that this long-lasting dye will give you the colour you’re after!
You say: “I recently dyed my [dark] hair with this and I was really amazed at how well it turned out. It’s definitely worth it, I would buy it again and I love the colour selections and the variation. I like how the hair dye just doesn’t fade away (like most hair dyes do). And I love that this is a way to maintain healthy hair, after I damaged my hair this hair dye basically brought it back to life (and it uses vegetables)!” – Ashleysoto
Want to read more? Read Color & Soin Permanent Hair Dye with Vegetal Extracts Reviews here…
Key features:
- Made with vegetal extract
- Specially formulated to preserve natural hair oils
- Highly concentrated pure pigments
Available at:
- $19.95 from Color & Soin
Scott Cornwall Colour Restore Chrome
From $16.99 at Priceline
We say: Okay, while this isn’t technically a hair dye, the restorative benefits of the toner work to boost your sought after colour with each condition. The vegan-friendly formula has been designed to nourish your strands while still providing a more mild wash of colour and tone. Basically, this one is perfect if you’re ready to embrace the greys in a chic, softened way.
Want to read more? Read Scott Cornwall Colour Restore Chrome Reviews here…
Key features:
- Lasts up to eight washes
- Uniquely designed to enhance fading shades
- Creates colour in a 2 minute conditioner
Available at:
- $13.59 (usually $16.99) from Priceline
- $27.69 from Amazon Australia
At-Home Hair Dye Tips
But before we launch into where to find the best natural dyes, we first need to make sure that you’re choosing the right dye for your hair type (and your hair desires). Because it can be a totally tricky (and expensive) endeavour! Not to mention, fraught with potential disaster! So before you go slathering your box-dye all over, brush up on the tips and tricks to at-home hair dying.
Where To Buy Natural Hair Dye
Thankfully natural hair dyes aren’t as rare as they once were. Finding vegan, natural and nourishing hair dyes is now a walk in the park (okay, maybe in a supermarket or chemist), with hydrating, strand-caring formulas being found in Woolworths, Chemist Warehouse and Priceline to name a few. And of course, you can always order online from your fave retailers.
Do you dye your hair at home? Would you rather a more natural dye?
I loved Manic Panic when I dyed my hair purple.
I use Clairol Natural, it has a nice scent.
It is nice when your hair products leave your hair smelling nice.
So great there are so many natural dyes these days, avoiding toxins is a must. Not that I dye my hair but I let others know.
Yes some people have bad reactions even after years of using hair dye so it is time for me to look at these.
So many great choices
yes that is what i thought
Yes I love trying new colour products
Do not mind either way.
Wow, I just assumed a lot of at home hair dyes wouldn’t be natural.
I have had hightlights often but never dyed my hair. It is looking so tired and mousey, maybe I should consider a dye of some sort?
I’ve used more than three of these, I like the Garnier one.
colouring hair at home is just so convenient
Not to mention cheaper.
Much Much Cheaper
I do dye my hair and have never tried any of these. Good article.
I used L’Oréal Casting Creme Gloss for years until my greys needed a permanent dye. I remember how shiny it made my hair.
I’ve got a box of Schwarzkopf Simply Colour to try & intend to use it in the next few days.
great for future reference
naturally brite sounds good for my little bits of grey showing at the roots framing my face
I still have concerns with Toluene, sodium laureth sulphate and the hydrogen peroxide in the developers. Perhaps the Henna one might steer away from them.
Big fan of natural hair dyes!
It’s really good to see hair color products for coloring hairs with different color and shads it’s sound really cool. if you have hair loss, then you will definitely need to consult hair transplant surgeon , I think you can visit the best hair restoration clinic Islamabad for best hair loss treatment.