Whether you’re looking to make a statement or simply want to add some excitement to your hairstyle, blue hair dye is an excellent choice. With its versatility and range of shades, from soft pastels to deep midnight blues, there’s a perfect dye out there for everyone. Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to consider your skin tone, undertone, and personal style when choosing the right blue hair dye. This will ensure that you’re rocking a look that’s uniquely yours.
Now, let’s explore the best blue hair dyes available on the market. We’ve curated a list of top products, covering everything from budget-friendly options to premium formulas. From temporary dyes for experimenting with colors to long-lasting solutions for making a permanent statement, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our top picks and learn some valuable tips for achieving stunning blue hair.
How to Choose a Blue Hair Dye
To find the ideal blue hair dye, it’s essential to consider two crucial aspects: the desired shade and color retention. Before making a purchase, take the time to understand these factors to guarantee you select a product that meets your needs.
Types of Dye
The longevity of hair color depends heavily on the type of dye used. Different types have varying degrees of permanence, chemical properties, and effects on the hair. Understanding these differences will help you select the best dye for your locks. Temporary dyes offer an instant impact but are washed away with the first shampoo. They coat the hair in color without altering the underlying tone or lightening/darkening it.
Temporary dyes can be used to create designs, cover up roots, or test a color before committing to a more permanent option. Semi-permanent colors, also known as direct dyes, are gentle and ammonia-free. They deposit color onto the hair’s surface without penetrating the shaft, altering its tone but not lightening it. This type of dye is suitable for use over blonde, lightened, or faded hair, and can even correct highlights that have become brassy.
Semi-permanent colors typically last between 4 to 12 shampoos before fading. Demi-permanent dyes boast a low-ammonia formula and are usually paired with a low-volume developer. They gently open the cuticle layer of the hair, allowing color to penetrate slightly into the shaft. This type of dye can darken or change the tone of the hair, but will not lift or lighten it. Demi-permanent colors are great for enhancing natural tones, darkening or lowlighting hair, and correcting off-tone locks.
They can last up to 24 shampoos before washing out. Permanent dyes are the strongest type and require a developer to open the cuticles that cover the hair shaft. The color is deposited deep into the hair, and then the cuticles reseal, retaining the color. This type of dye causes the most damage to the hair but offers long-lasting results. Permanent colors will never fade completely, allowing you to see the difference between it and your natural locks as your hair grows out.
Shade
When selecting a blue hair dye, it’s crucial to consider the shade you’re aiming for. The spectrum of blues can span from deep, inky hues to soft, pastel tones. Some brands, such as Manic Panic and Arctic Fox, allow for custom mixing of colors to create your unique shade. Before making a final decision, compare your natural hair color to any provided swatches to ensure the resulting color will meet your expectations.
Keep in mind that your hair will likely take on a darker tone than what’s depicted, with blonde or pre-lightened locks holding the most vibrant shades. If you have dark hair, it may be necessary to first lighten your strands with bleach to achieve the desired outcome.
Developer
When it comes to achieving lasting color, two key players are essential: permanent and demi-permanent dyes require the assistance of a developer. This chemical component enables the dye to effectively penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting hues. Box dye kits usually include a developer, whereas professional dyes often necessitate a separate purchase. We’ll delve deeper into the various types of developers later on.
Now that you’re equipped with knowledge on what to look for in a blue hair dye, let’s dive straight into our top 10 picks!
Top 10 Best Blue Hair Dyes 2024
Best Overall Dye: Arctic Fox
Arctic Fox has gained a loyal following among those who regularly dye their hair, and for good reason. The semi-permanent dye offers vibrant colors that can be mixed and matched to achieve the perfect shade. With its vegan formula and commitment to donating 15 percent of profits to preventing animal cruelty, it’s an attractive choice for those who prioritize supporting cruelty-free products.
One of the standout features of Arctic Fox is its blendability.
Each color can be combined to create a unique hue, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts. Furthermore, the dye is designed to fade in the original color spectrum over time, rather than disappearing completely. This means that the color will gradually transition into more pastel versions of the original shade, allowing you to enjoy your desired color for longer.
Another notable aspect of Arctic Fox is its pleasant scent.
Unlike many hair dyes on the market, it has a fruity-grape aroma that’s far more appealing than strong chemical smells. If you’re sensitive to odors in your products, this dye is an excellent choice that won’t overwhelm you.
However, it’s essential to be aware of one potential drawback: Arctic Fox can stain extensively, even after the first wash. If you frequently touch your dry hair or accidentally spill the dye on surfaces, there’s a risk of color transfer.
Additionally, if wet dye is dropped onto porcelain or tile, it may be challenging to remove and could leave residue on skin for several days after use.
Overall, Arctic Fox offers a unique combination of benefits and drawbacks that make it an attractive option for those seeking a semi-permanent dye with a pleasant scent and commitment to social responsibility.
While it may not be ideal for everyone, its blendability, fading capabilities, and charitable efforts make it a popular choice among fans of the brand.
Best Premium Dye: PRAVANA ChromaSilk Vivids
PRAVANA ChromaSilk Vivids has earned a reputation as an award-winning brand, offering highly pigmented shades that deliver salon-quality color from the comfort of your own home. With no need for developer, this semi-permanent dye is perfect for those seeking to express themselves through vibrant colors – particularly blue hues. The formula boasts added silk and keratin proteins, which work to strengthen hair against damage and leave strands feeling soft and silky after use.
This makes it an excellent choice for individuals with dry or coarse hair, as it can help soften and tame tresses while coloring. While the color may wash out relatively quickly, users can extend its lifespan by reducing shampooing frequency and incorporating dry shampoo between washes. For a more long-lasting dye option, we recommend exploring Manic Panic Amplified.
Best Budget Dye: Punky Color
Punky Color’s semi-permanent dye is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some subtle blue hues to their locks. One of the most impressive things about this product is its versatility – it can work on all hair types and textures, including unlightened hair, without requiring any additional developer. This means that regardless of whether you have bright blonde or dark brown hair, Punky Color’s dye can still produce great results.
The conditioning formula in this dye is also worth noting, as it’s free from harsh chemicals like alcohol and parabens. This makes it a great option for anyone who suffers from dry or coarse hair. And despite the relatively small bottle size of 3.5 ounces, Punky Color’s dye can actually cover most lengths of hair, leaving you with some extra product to spare – as long as you store it properly, that is.
It’s worth noting that the shades available in Punky Color’s range may not be entirely true to color, with the blues appearing slightly darker than they do in the packaging. If you’re looking for a more vibrant or pastel blue shade, you may want to consider alternative options like Creative Image’s Adore dye instead.
Overall, Punky Color’s semi-permanent dye is a great choice for anyone looking to add some subtle blue color to their hair without committing to a full-on bleach job.
And with its conditioning properties and affordable price point, it’s definitely worth considering.
Most Blue Shades: Creative Image Adore
Creative Image’s Adore color line is a standout due to its unparalleled range of blue hues. With 8 distinct shades, including Luxe Blue, Powder Blue, and Sapphire Blue, this semi-permanent dye offers a vast palette for those seeking a bold new look. What sets Adore apart is its uncanny ability to deliver true-to-color results, making it an ideal choice for those who crave versatility.
The formula’s gel-like texture is thinner and easier to apply, especially on long or curly hair, allowing for effortless coverage. However, it’s essential to note that this dye only thrives on pre-lightened locks, with darker hair yielding subtle highlights rather than a vibrant blue color. For those seeking more dramatic results on darker hair, Punky Colors may be a better option.
Nevertheless, Creative Image’s Adore remains an excellent choice for anyone looking to unleash their inner creative spirit through hair color.
Best Long-Lasting Dye: Manic Panic Amplified
Manic Panic Amplified has earned a special place in the hearts of many blue-haired enthusiasts. This semi-permanent dye offers long-lasting, intensely vibrant colors that can last up to 8 weeks with proper care. The formula is 30 percent more durable than their original color line, making it an excellent choice for those who want to commit to their blue locks.
With a range of shades available, including Blue Moon, Atomic Turquoise, Bad Boy Blue, After Midnight, and Voodoo Blue, users can achieve the perfect hue. This vegan and cruelty-free product also boasts a virtually fragrance-free formula, with only a hint of grapefruit scent present. However, the bottle can be challenging to squeeze, so it’s recommended to portion out the dye in a separate container before applying it to your hair.
Additionally, you may need multiple bottles to fully saturate longer hair.
Best Metallic Dye: Got2b Metallic
The Got2b Metallic dye is a standout choice for anyone seeking a shimmering, cool blue tone. Its demi-permanent formula allows it to blend seamlessly with natural or dyed grey hair, covering up the grey with a metallic sheen that’s sure to turn heads. The included shine booster ensures your locks will be radiating all the right signals.
While this dye may not be ideal for those looking for a vibrant blue hue, its multidimensional color properties make it an excellent option for highlighting previously colored or naturally highlighted hair. On the other hand, using Got2b on previously colored hair is not recommended, as the color may not take well. Furthermore, the dye’s lack of fade resistance means you can expect the blue to rapidly lose its intensity, leaving your hair looking grey in just a few washes.
For a more long-lasting option, consider the Arctic Fox alternative.
Best Dye for Touch-Ups: Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash
Celeb Luxury Colorwash is a semi-permanent, color-depositing shampoo that’s perfect for maintaining vibrant locks between dyes or creating a new look. This unique formula combines ‘colorposit’ technology to cleanse and add color to your hair, making it an excellent choice for those seeking consistently bright hair. While it works best on light hair, darker strands will still pick up the blue tone. The more you use it, the more intense the color becomes.
What sets Colorwash apart is its ability to be used as a shampoo, eliminating the need for a developer or elaborate dyeing process. Simply apply it to your hair and rinse, enjoying brilliant blue locks without the hassle of staining your skin or tub. This fade-free formula ensures your color stays vivid with constant use. However, prolonged use may lead to dryness and frizz, particularly for those with very dry or curly hair.
To mitigate this, use Colorwash sparingly and condition your hair after each application. If you’re concerned about drying out your locks, consider alternative options like PRAVANA.
Best Box Dye Kit: Splat Rebellious Colors
This comprehensive hair dye kit boasts a range of deep, rich blue shades and incorporates nourishing ingredients like baobab seed oil and quinoa extracts to minimize damage. With included bleach and developer, plus gloves and dye, it’s an ideal solution for those seeking convenience without the hassle of sourcing individual components separately.
The added protection from excessive damage makes it a great choice for individuals looking to maintain healthy locks or minimize further harm after previous coloring attempts. While the kit does require bleaching for optimal color results, users must exercise caution as the formula may be too intense for certain hair types. For those seeking alternative options that can produce vibrant colors on darker hair, Manic Panic’s dye range provides a suitable solution.
Best Temporary Dye: L’Oreal Paris Colorista Spray
L’Oreal Paris Colorista Spray is a game-changer for those looking to dip their toes into the blue trend without making a long-term commitment. This temporary dye spray offers an incredible level of customization, allowing users to select individual strands and color them with ease. The result? Unique hair designs that are as bold or subtle as you like.
What’s more, this spray doesn’t damage, lighten, or alter your hair in any way, making it a great choice for those who want to try out a new look without worrying about the consequences. No bleach is needed to make the color stick, and once you’re done, the color will simply wash away with your next shampoo. Of course, there are some minor drawbacks to consider. The spray can get a bit messy, so be sure to cover any nearby surfaces and wash it off your skin immediately to prevent staining.
It’s also important to let the dye dry on your hair before touching it to prevent any bleeding or fading. Overall, L’Oreal Paris Colorista Spray is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add some creativity and fun to their hairstyle without making a permanent commitment.
Best for Beginners: Color X-Change
Color X-Change is an excellent option for those new to blue hair dye, boasting a user-friendly design and a formula that promotes shine. The bottle’s easy-to-use squirt tip allows for precise application, while the premixed solution simplifies the coloring process. Simply shake the bottle and begin dyeing – it’s as straightforward as it gets.
At its core, Color X-Change is a semi-permanent dye that doesn’t require developer.
It’s available in three shades: Ballistic Blue, Mood of Blue, and Tropical Turquoise. The absence of PPD (paraphenylenediamine) makes it a great choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
While the formula does its part to enhance shine, it also means that the color will fade relatively quickly. To maintain a consistent blue hue, be prepared to reapply the dye frequently.
A temporary color like L’Oreal Colorista Spray can help bridge the gap between dyes and keep your locks looking vibrant.
The pros of this dye include its ease of use, shine-enhancing properties, and PPD-free formula. However, it’s essential to be aware that the color does fade rapidly.
Your Full Guide to Blue Hair Dye
While dyeing hair can be a complex procedure, there are steps you can take to ensure a successful outcome. By following tried-and-true tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the vibrant, healthy-looking locks you desire.
Box Dye vs Professional Color
When it comes to box dye and professional hair color, there’s no shortage of opinions on both sides. Each has its own loyal followers and set of pros and cons. Box dye is widely available at beauty stores or in the hair care aisle of supermarkets and drugstores, often coming with a comprehensive kit that can be used to quickly touch up roots or cover grey hairs. However, it’s worth noting that box dyes typically require bleaching, which can be a lengthy process.
The intense colors offered by these products usually require strong bleach and developer combinations, making them prone to causing unintended hair damage. On the other hand, professional hair colors are sold separately from their corresponding bleach and developers, offering a wider range of color options at a higher price point.
While this option may not be as cost-effective, it provides a more tailored approach for those willing to invest extra time in selecting the right products for their hair type.
Hair Levels
Hair stylists utilize a level system to categorize hair colors, with Level 1 representing the darkest black shade and Level 10 signifying a light, almost white, blonde tone. Each level is characterized by unique underlying tones and pigments. This structured approach allows individuals who enjoy DIY hair coloring to make informed decisions about product selection and determines the maximum number of shades their hair can be safely lightened.
How to Dye Your Hair
Dyeing your hair can be a daunting task, especially for first-timers. To ease the process, follow these fundamental guidelines. Always remember to read the instructions carefully and conduct a patch test before applying any dye to your locks.
Starting with the basics, determine the level of color you’re working with. This will help you choose the right shade and anticipate the final result. Keep in mind that colors tend to appear more vibrant on lighter hair.
If you’re aiming for a bold, eye-catching hue, bleaching your hair may be necessary. For box dyes, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to achieve the desired level of lightness. If you’re opting for professional color, consider our article on bleaching hair and consult our section on choosing developer for guidance.
When applying the dye itself, divide your hair into sections to ensure even coverage.
Don’t hesitate to apply a generous amount; if it seems excessive, it’s likely just right. Use gloves or a coloring brush to coat each strand evenly, then follow the dye’s instructions and let it sit before rinsing until the water runs clear. Finally, dry your locks and admire your new look!
When to Bleach Your Hair
When it comes to bleaching your hair, it’s essential to do so as infrequently as possible to minimize the damaging effects on your locks. Overusing bleach can cause your hair to break, snap off, or even suffer chemical burns to your scalp. However, when used sparingly, bleach is highly effective at lightening hair, making it an ideal choice for achieving vibrant colors. When bleaching, you’ll need to combine bleach with developer, typically in a 2-to-1 ratio, to activate the process.
There are four different levels of developer to choose from, each offering varying degrees of lifting power. Level 10 is the lowest volume, capable of lifting your hair approximately one shade, and is suitable for thin or fine hair due to its low intensity. Level 20 can change your hair 1-2 shades, making it a good option for thicker hair, while Level 30 can lighten your hair 3-4 shades, ideal for those with naturally darker hair or box-dyed black hair.
Finally, Level 40 is the strongest available, but due to its high risk of damaging hair, it’s recommended that you only use it under professional guidance. When working with professional hair color kits, keep in mind that they often don’t include developer and may require separate purchase. Box dyes, such as Splat, typically do come with bleach and developer, but it’s essential to check the volume of developer being used.
If you have dry or sensitive hair, you may want to avoid box dye altogether to minimize the risk of hair damage.
Does Blue Hair Fade Fast?
When it comes to maintaining the vibrancy of blue hair dye, many people struggle with the fact that it tends to fade quickly. In as little as four weeks, what was once a brilliant blue can start to take on a greenish hue. To combat this issue and keep your locks looking their best between color touch-ups, consider incorporating a small amount of dye into your conditioner or using a pre-mixed colorwash product like Celeb Luxury’s Viral Colorwash.
This clever hack allows you to subtly refresh your color without committing to a full-on re-dye, making it perfect for those who want to preserve their unique shade while minimizing maintenance.
Storing Unused Dye
To ensure optimal storage, keep the dye bottle in a cool, dark place, away from any potential contaminants or drips. An airtight, plastic container like Color X-Change is ideal for preserving the unused dye. With proper storage, the dye can remain usable for several years; however, it’s crucial to inspect the dye regularly for signs of expiration before reusing it.
If you’ve already mixed the dye with an ingredient like peroxide, it’s best not to store it, as chemical reactions have likely occurred. In this case, disposal is the safest option to avoid any potential damage to your hair.
Homemade Hair Dyes
Hair dyes can be created from everyday items like food coloring and Kool-Aid, offering a temporary solution that lasts longer than a typical dye. These chemical-free dyes are harmless to your locks and serve as a great way to test out colors before committing to a real dye. Keep in mind that colors will appear more vibrant on light hair versus dark hair. For a DIY approach, you can use drink mix packets like Kool-Aid or Gatorade powder.
This method is simple and requires minimal ingredients: conditioner, small bowl, and the drink mix packets themselves. Collect as many packets as desired to achieve a richer color. Simply combine the packets with half a cup of conditioner in a bowl and mix well. To apply the dye, use either a paintbrush or your hands, ensuring each strand is coated evenly to avoid any streaky effects. Leave the mixture on for several hours before rinsing with water and towel-drying.
To extend the life of the dye, wait a few days before shampooing. For an alternative method using food dye, pre-measure out conditioner into a bowl and add drops of color until you reach your desired shade. Then, apply the mixture to your hair following the same steps as above.
Colored Hair Maintenance Tips
When your newly dyed locks have settled, it’s crucial to adopt a few simple habits to preserve the color and repair any damage. Start by allowing 2-3 days to pass before washing your hair with shampoo. This brief window allows the color to fully penetrate the cuticle, resulting in a more vibrant and longer-lasting dye job. To complement this approach, opt for sulfate-free hair care products that gently cleanse without stripping away precious color molecules.
Additionally, consider adding a dash of dye to your conditioner or using a colorwash like Celeb Luxury to give your locks an extra boost of vibrancy. Furthermore, be mindful of the water temperature when showering, as extremely hot water can cause the cuticle to open and allow color to escape with each rinse. If you’re game for it, cool showers are ideal, but warm temperatures won’t do any harm either.
The Blue for You
Selecting the ideal blue hair dye can be an overwhelming experience, particularly when faced with a multitude of options and shades. To simplify the process, it’s essential to consider two crucial factors: the desired longevity of the dye and the specific shade of blue you’re seeking. By taking these elements into account, you’ll be better equipped to narrow down your choices and ultimately find the perfect blue hue that suits your style.
