Here are some of the best over-the-counter hair color products, along with their details, positive and negative aspects, and ingredients or materials:
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Natural Hair Dyes: These dyes are ammonia-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, and come in a wide range of colors. However, they still contain active chemical ingredients to allow them to work, and may not be completely free of harsh ingredients.
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Drugstore Hair Dyes: These dyes come in a variety of types, including semi-permanent, permanent, and glosses, and are evaluated based on active ingredients and nourishing actives like oils and conditioners. They can provide 100% gray coverage and are often conditioning, but may be drippy or have longer processing times.
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At-Home Hair Color Products: These products offer a quick, inexpensive way to update your look without the price and time commitment of a trip to the salon. They come in a variety of types, including boxed drugstore dyes that deliver professional results and dyes designed to cover roots and grays on all hair shades. They are rigorously tested by Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab scientists for ease of use and results, including color vibrancy, fading, shine, and the look and feel of hair after use. They contain hair color, which holds a blend of the alkalizer and the dye precursors, and developer, which contains hydrogen peroxide and is mixed with the hair color before application. They can provide 100% gray coverage and are often conditioning, but may be drippy or have longer processing times.
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Semi-Permanent Hair Dyes: These dyes are highly moisturizing and can be customized by mixing two or more shades to create a color of your choice. They can make hair 45% more shiny and even cover grays, but may not last as long as other types of dyes.
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Natural and Non-Toxic Hair Dyes: These dyes use well-regulated, synthetic coloring agents as well as plant-based ingredients like henna, German chamomile, and senna. They are evaluated by professional hair colorists and Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab chemists for quality assurance. They may contain some synthetic ingredients for the hair color to work, but are generally less damaging and more natural than other types of dyes.
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Organic and Natural Hair Dyes: These dyes are mainly based on plants like henna and indigo and are the least damaging and most natural option. They come in a variety of shades and are formulated from all-natural herb extracts like rosemary, cinchona, and walnut husks. They are free of parabens, alcohol, ammonia, resorcinol, and perfumes, but may contain hydrogen peroxide in most shades.
Overall, the best over-the-counter hair color product for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Its important to consider the type of dye, the ingredients or materials used, and the positive and negative aspects of each product before making a decision.
