5 Ammonia Free Hair Dyes For Nontoxic Colors
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When it comes to our locks, sometimes we want to switch up our look with a new cut and color. But many regular hair dye formulas include six ingredients that can be harmful to our health, often called the ‘big six’: ammonia, resorcinol, parabens, phthalates, PPD, and gluten. That’s why we’ve searched high and low to find five ammonia-free hair dyes using organic or naturally-derived ingredients. Most of them don’t include the ‘big six,’ and the brands are cruelty-free, value sustainable ethics, and use eco-friendly packaging. Whether you’re looking to go dark, lighten up, or change your color entirely, there’s an ideal dye for everyone.
For more of our favorite hair products, check out our guide to organic shampoo!
1. Iroiro
Best For | Bright & bold colors
Ingredients | 100% pure coconut oil, 100% natural NatureSilk, ECO-Cert NatureMulse, soy & quinoa protein
Price | Starting at $12.99
Iroiro hits the jackpot when it comes to affordable, effective, and natural hair dyes. Made with completely vegan and natural ingredients like coconut oil and yuzu-cranberry fragrances, this brand carries dozens of bold, semi-permanent colors that are paraben-, alcohol-, and ammonia-free (and packaged in eco-friendly containers). These vibrant colors are guaranteed to give you the bright look you’re aiming for—just ask Emily, our Editorial Director, who uses the pink dye religiously.
2. Tints of Nature
Best For | Pastel tones
Ingredients | Naturally-derived alcohols, wheat protein, charcoal powder, aloe, & fruit extracts
Price | Starting at $6.99
If bright and bold aren’t your thing, Tints of Nature is subtle, healthy, and right up your alley. This brand’s vegan formula comes in all kinds of pastel tones, including aqua, pink, and purple, for the colorful tresses you’ve been eyeing. And your hair won’t weaken in the process either; this formula includes a conditioner-based color that nourishes and strengthens hair in the process. Each application lasts up to 12 washes, so go ahead and try something new.
3. Ekoeh
Best For | Covering grays
Ingredients | Nutrient dense certified organic botanical complex, certified Fair Trade shea butter, organic aloe vera, organic fruit extracts
Price | $17.99
If you’re dealing with damaged tresses and/or stubborn gray hairs, Ekoeh Brasil’s Hair Food Color Cream is your answer. This vegan and USDA certified organic formula nourishes your hair while helping you achieve vibrant color with the addition of Fair Trade shea butter and phthalate-, resorcinol-free dye. Alongside ethically sourced ingredients, Ekoeh commits to a fully transparent supply chain process that supports fair trade agricultural communities. It’s good for your hair and our planet.
4. Natulique
Best For | Sensitive or weakened hair & scalp
Ingredients | Grape seed oil, sunflower seed extract, fruit & jojoba oils, wheat protein, shea butter
Price | Available at Salons
If you fancy a salon visit, look to Natulique’s Professional Hair Colors, the first-ever complete Certified Organic professional hair care line in the world. Made for sensitive and weakened hair/scalp, this gentle formula and conditioner will bring your hair back to life using several natural oils, proteins, and butter. With more than 70 shades, this dye offers full coverage, extra moisture, and long-lasting results. Fewer chemicals, more glow? Yes, please.
5. Davines
Best For | Full coverage, permanent color
Ingredients | Naturally-derived alcohols, castor oil, carotenoids, melanin, antioxidants
Price | Available at Salons
Davines believes that sustainable beauty is possible, even with our hair. The brand’s ammonia-free and natural color creams are made in Italy, with antioxidants, melanin, and plenty of carotenoids. In just a few hours at your local salon, you’ll have up to three levels of lighter hair or a dark, intense, and shiny look. In addition to being eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and natural, Davines is also a B Corp, so the brand gives back to the community as well. Get that shimmering, velvety color—heads will definitely turn.
