How to Choose the Right Hair Dye: A Practical Buying Guide

Whether you want to cover grey hairs, touch up your roots, or simply try a completely new look, finding the right hair dye can be a challenge. The market is vast, and the promises are many. This guide is designed to help you make an informed choice, free from marketing jargon. We'll examine the specifications of different types of hair dye so you can find a product that suits your at-home colouring needs.

What to Look for When Buying Hair Dye

Before you make a choice, it's helpful to consider a few key factors. The right hair dye depends on your hair type, the desired result, and your personal preferences.

1. Type of Colour and Coverage

Think about the result you want to achieve. Are you looking for a permanent colour that won't fade, or a temporary one? For hair dye for grey hair, a product with high coverage is essential. Brands often specify the level of coverage on the packaging. For those who only want to colour their roots, a special root touch-up kit is a practical and quick solution. These kits are designed to blend seamlessly with your current hair colour.

2. The Formula: Professional, Natural, or Ammonia-Free?

The composition of the dye is an important factor. Professional hair dye, like that used in salons, often contains concentrated pigments for long-lasting and intense results. These products usually require a separate developer.

On the other hand, there is a growing demand for natural hair dye. These products often use plant-based extracts and pigments. An ammonia-free hair dye is often considered a milder option, which can be beneficial for those with a sensitive scalp. Always check the ingredients list to see if a product aligns with your preferences.

Our Recommended Hair Dyes

Based on product features and applications, we have compiled a list of popular choices for you.

Kemon Cramer Hair Color Cream – Light Golden Mahogany Brown

Why it stands out: This is a professional hair colouring cream known for its reliable results. According to the manufacturer, Kemon, the formula is designed for maximum coverage, even on stubborn grey hair. The addition of coconut oil is intended to protect the hair during the colouring process.

Benefits:

• Offers a vibrant, long-lasting colour.
• Effectively covers white and grey hair for an even result.
• Enriched with coconut oil to care for the hair.
• Large 100 ml tube.

Who it's for: For users who want to achieve salon-quality results at home and have experience mixing hair dye with a separate developer. Ideal for those looking for a permanent solution with full grey coverage.

Syoss Hair Color Rootset - BR1 Blonde

Why it stands out: This root touch-up kit from Syoss is specifically developed for quick and easy root maintenance. The manufacturer states that results are visible in just 10 minutes. The Color-Match system is designed for a smooth transition between your roots and the rest of your hair colour.

Benefits:

• A quick solution for colouring roots.
• Results in just 10 minutes of processing time.
• Formula contains nourishing oils.
• Designed for a seamless colour blend.

Who it's for: For anyone looking for a quick and easy solution to conceal roots between full colour treatments. Suitable for people with a busy lifestyle who don't want to spend a lot of time on colouring.

BRAIN COSMOS Rishiri Kombu Natural Care Hair Dye (Dark Brown)

Why it stands out: This product is positioned as a natural hair dye for grey hair. According to the product information from BRAIN COSMOS, the formula contains 28 types of plant extracts and natural pigments. The product is formulated without seven common additives and is intended to nourish the hair during colouring.

Benefits:

• Uses natural plant-based pigments for colouring.
• Contains 28 plant extracts, according to the manufacturer.
• Formulated without certain common additives.
• Designed to nourish the hair during the colouring process.

Who it's for: For users who prefer hair care products with plant-based ingredients or are looking for a gentler option for colouring grey hair.

Still Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

The world of hair dye is broad and diverse. Every hair type and every desire calls for a different approach. If the options above don't quite match what you're looking for, there are many more possibilities.

View our full range of hair dyes here

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Dye

1. How do I choose the right hair dye colour? Take a close look at your current hair colour and your skin tone. The colour numbers on the packaging indicate the colour level (from black to light blonde) and the tone (e.g., gold, ash, or copper). For a natural result, it's often recommended to go no more than two shades lighter or darker than your natural hair colour. A colour wheel or the examples on the packaging can help with this.

2. Is ammonia-free hair dye better for your hair? Ammonia-free hair dye is often perceived as milder, especially for the scalp. Ammonia opens the hair cuticles to allow the colour to penetrate but can have a strong odour. Products without ammonia often use an alternative substance, such as monoethanolamine (MEA), to achieve the same effect. The choice depends on your personal sensitivity and preference.

3. How can I best maintain my coloured hair? Use shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for colour-treated hair. These products are milder and often contain ingredients that help lock in colour pigments. Try not to wash your hair too often and avoid hot water, as this can cause the colour to fade faster. Also, protect your hair from the sun, which can lighten the colour.