The Best Semi-Permanent Hair Dyes That Work On Dark Hair

Nothing is more exciting than changing your look, and revamping your hair color can be one of the best ways to accomplish this. However, dark-haired people know the struggle of hair dye. Whereas natural blondes are able to get that vivid effect with minimal bleaching, the darker your hair is, the less the color will show up when you dye it. And since bleaching is one of the most damaging things you can do to your hair (via Refinery29), nowadays, many people are going for that flattering, subtle pop of color for the ultimate form of self-expression.

For many, semi-permanent is the way to go because it doesn't penetrate your hair follicles and cause damage. And because it does eventually wash out completely, it's perfect if you're looking to temporarily experiment without committing. Another plus about semi-permanent dyes, especially for those who don't have the time or money to visit a professional in the salon and deem it best to find a product to play with at home, is that many options can be found at your local grocery or beauty store. So whether you're going for a whimsical or natural look, here are three great at-home semi-permanent hair dyes that work with dark hair — no bleach required.

Along with being vegan and cruelty-free, the edgy, cult-favorite brand known as Manic Panic is known for unashamedly making bold statements with their hair products. Coming in a whopping 84 shades, the Cream Formula Semi-Permanent Hair Color collection ranges from midnight to icy blues, neon to emerald greens, pinkish to blood-red magentas, lilac to plum violets, and of course, the blackest of black. Each application lasts up to six weeks and is made with gluten-free and paraben-free ingredients (via Manic panic). 

The semi-permanent collection was also the winner of Nylon's Beauty Hit List for Best Hair Color, and it's not hard to see why. Manic Panic's semi-permanents are unique because they offer bright, vivid colors in a creamy formula that leaves the hair feeling extra soft, unlike many competing hair dyes which dry out your beloved locks (via Allure). These dyes are perfect if you're going for that rebellious "don't mess with me" look.

Raven-haired beauties, rejoice! There's a product on the market designed specifically for you. The L'oreal Colorista Semi-Permanent For Brunette Hair is a conditioning mask that directly deposits the pigment into your follicles and allows you to transform your style while keeping your original color intact. The section dedicated to brunettes comes in four shades: a dark green teal, a rich midnight blue, a saturated burgundy, and a deep maroon. All of these colors provide a subtle yet artsy effect that will fade to a more subdued yet still flattering soft color with each shampoo (via Well + Good). 

Once the color washes out completely, you can try a new shade and keep on experimenting. To use, simply apply to the sections of your hair where you want to see the color pop, wait 15-30 minutes, then rinse. At a reasonably priced $10, it can't hurt to try it yourself if you're bored and simply want to shake things up for a little while.

While this innovative product is certainly semi-permanent in nature, it isn't technically a dye, but rather a color depositing conditioner that is a healthy alternative. The Overtone Coloring Conditioners work by creating a new color in your hair by using nourishing ingredients such as shea butter, avocado oil, and coconut oil that keep everything healthy and hydrated, unlike traditional dyes that cause damage (via Overtone). Many of the brand's products (too many to count) are the winner of the Allure Best of Beauty and Glamour Beauty Awards. 

Its line designed specifically for brown hair comes in a classy rose gold, an elegant purple, a quirky blue, a sexy red, and a copper-orange that works on all textures. The conditioners are incredibly pigmented, so be sure to be careful and wear gloves when applying and blow-dry to help lock the color in (via Good Housekeeping). However, it does wash out with water pretty easily, so to refresh your color, make sure to pair your purchase with its matching daily conditioner. Without breaking the bank or damaging your hair, you can be sporting a new shade in no time.