10 Best Temporary Hair Dyes for Dark Hair in 2022 (Licensed Cosmetologist-Reviewed)
Our favorite temporary hair dye was Arctic Fox's Semi-Permanent Hair Color Dye. It's long-lasting, free from ammonia and peroxide, and 100% vegan and cruelty-free - meaning you won't feel guilty for purchasing it! Take a look below for more of our top picks, and check out our buying guide reviewed by a licensed cosmetologist for tips on how to choose a dye on your own.
Quick List - Top Temporary Hair Dyes For Dark Hair
Arctic Fox
A Dye That's Cruelty-Free and Comes in Bright Colors
Joico
Subtly Colored Semi-Permanent Dye With Long-Lasting Effects
Denise is a licensed cosmetologist who advises people on certain products they should get. She formally worked at Ulta and is now headed into a salon.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- 10 Best Temporary Hair Dyes For Dark Hair Ranking
- No. 1Arctic Fox | Arctic Fox 100% Vegan Demi-Permanent Hair Dye
- No. 2Joico | Joico Intensity Semi-Permanent Hair Color
- No. 3Biotera | Biotera Sheer Illuminator
- No. 4Lime Crime | Lime Crime Unicorn Hair
- No. 5High Ridge | High Beams Intense Temporary Spray on Hair Color
- 5 more products
- Set Yourself Up for Success–Things to Do Before You Dye
- Take Care of that Colored Hair
- Buying Guide Reviewed by Licensed Cosmetologist Denise Campbell
How to Choose Temporary Hair Dyes For Dark Hair
While experience is really the best way to know what works for you, there are a few things you can check before purchasing to give you an idea of how a hair dye is going to work. Check out our pointers below!
Choose Your Dye Type
The type of dye you go for can largely determine the longevity and vibrancy of the color. There are various kinds of temporary hair dye solutions, and we'll go over the pros and cons of each. Take note that we've defined the longevity of temporary hair dyes to be measured in hair washes, so use your own hair washing schedule to come up with a more accurate time measurement.
Go with Hair Mascara, Hair Chalk, or Hair Spray for Up to a Week of Use
The simple application process and short-term use make these types of dyes good for first-timers and people who want to experiment with their hair. These also tend to give you the most vivid colors.
Pick Semi-Permanent Hair Dye for Up to a Month of Color
Without ammonia or peroxide, semi-permanent dyes won’t penetrate deeply into hair strands but will act as a stain instead. They last between 4 to 12 washes and aren’t very vivid.
Choose a Demi-Permanent Hair Dye to Last Up to 24 Washes
Demi-permanent dyes are stronger than semi-permanent dyes but not as strong as permanent ones. Like semi-permanent dyes, these do not contain ammonia; however, they do have the addition of peroxide, which helps to take color out of hair.
The peroxide makes demi-permanent dyes ideal for darker hair colors, as it will lighten the tone to allow more permanency in the coloring process. Demi-permanent dyes will last between 12 to 28 shampoos and, like semi-permanents, won’t be as vivid as dyes with bleach.
Keep in Mind How Much Hair You Want to Color
There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a color job and realizing you don’t have enough to finish. So be sure to take your hair length as well as how much of it you want to color into consideration when you make your purchase.
Make Sure You Have Enough Before Buying
It’s hard to say exactly how much dye you’ll need since each brand has different consistencies and requirements, but generally speaking, if you’re looking to do a full head dye, go with 1 container (4 to 6 ounces) of semi- or demi-permanent dye for shoulder-length and shorter hair and 2 or more containers for longer hair lengths.
Take note that hair spray works well for both long and short hair since you’re not necessarily trying to color all your hair—just the outer layer.
Choose Hair Mascara, Chalk or Wax for Streaks or Highlights
For streaks, highlights, and other small patches, hair mascaras, chalk, and wax are your best choices. These dyes all come in smaller sizes, making them packaged for covering a small area of hair.
However, they're extremely easy to use, often wash off in one shampoo, and highly effective - especially if you're using them for costuming or just to add a pop of color for a night out. They also cause virtually no damage, as they color only the outer layer of the hair.
Check the Label Before You Buy
If you keep dyeing your hair, ammonia and hydrogen peroxide can dry it out and damage its structure, creating brittle, unhealthy looking hair. Paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical that is used because of its natural finish and long-lasting effects on color, can irritate skin and cause serious side effects, such as dermatitis where the skin may turn red, look cracked, or blister.
These chemicals tend not to be used much in temporary dyes, but you'll want to check the labels just in case - especially with semi- and demi-permanent dyes. Also, if you have colored your hair before, they're likely to be more open to taking in trace chemicals, so temporary dyes can still be damaging. To be on the safe side, go with dyes labelled non-toxic or chemical-free.
You might also be tempted to try henna as an all-natural dye. However, it will stain your hair so if you do want to bleach it or recolor it in the future, it’ll be hard to get the color out.
10 Best Temporary Hair Dyes For Dark Hair Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Arctic Fox Arctic Fox 100% Vegan Demi-Permanent Hair Dye | | A Dye That's Cruelty-Free and Comes in Bright Colors | |
2 | Joico Joico Intensity Semi-Permanent Hair Color | | Subtly Colored Semi-Permanent Dye With Long-Lasting Effects | |
3 | Biotera Biotera Sheer Illuminator | | Enhance and Condition Your Natural Hair Color | |
4 | Lime Crime Lime Crime Unicorn Hair | | For Color That’s Just as Fun to Apply as It Is to Wear | |
5 | High Ridge High Beams Intense Temporary Spray on Hair Color | | A Temporary Solution Perfect for Costuming or Cosplay | |
6 | Punky Punky Demi-Permanent Conditioning Hair Color | | 21 Hair Colors That Are Non-Toxic and Chemical-Free | |
7 | MS.DEAR Ms. Dear Temporary Hair Color Mascara | | Creative Application for Shiny, Metallic Streaks | |
8 | MS.DEAR Moon Glow Blacklight Neon Hair Mascara | | A Hair Wax That Styles and Colors Your Hair | |
9 | Epic Epic Art Supplies Hair Chalk Set | | Experiment to Your Heart's Content With These Hair Chalks | |
10 | Color X-Change Color X-Change Semi-Permanent Hair Color | | A Dye for Tinting Your Light Brown Hair |
Arctic FoxArctic Fox 100% Vegan Demi-Permanent Hair Dye
A Dye That's Cruelty-Free and Comes in Bright Colors
This hair dye gives even dark hair deep, saturated tones. It’s long-lasting and fades slowly so you won’t get any bleed out that might stain your shower. On top of this, the dye is vegan, free from harmful chemicals, and smells great. You can feel good about buying it, too - 15% of every purchase goes towards fighting animal cruelty.
Some reviewers found that the dye stains your hands. Be sure to buy gloves before using it! However, reviewers loved how the color stayed vibrant for longer than other brands. Many were also fans of the smell being similar to soda, bubblegum, or candy.
Subtly Colored Semi-Permanent Dye With Long-Lasting Effects
Some reviewers have noted that the color will continue to bleed out for a few washes and that it’s likely to stain during that time. However, one reviewer with black hair was able to get a beautiful burgundy color with this semi-permanent dye. Many other reviewers also loved the creamy consistency of the product and how easy it was to apply.
Enhance and Condition Your Natural Hair Color
Some reviewers found that the color didn't show on their hair, despite leaving it on for the 1 to 3 minutes recommended. However, most reviewers loved that the product acts as a conditioner and helps enhance and extend already-colored hair.
It is especially useful when you're in between salon visits! On darker hair, it can add in lighter tints and subtle highlights.
For Color That’s Just as Fun to Apply as It Is to Wear
This dye can be left on for several hours for better color as it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals – and you definitely want to leave it on longer! As it dyes, it also conditions, smells great, and gives you a full head of beautiful color.
Some reviewers thought that Lime Crime washed out too fast and that the amount in the jar was not enough to dye their whole head. Many more reviewers raved about how pigmented the colors were and how it faded nicely - all without damaging your hair.
High RidgeHigh Beams Intense Temporary Spray on Hair Color
A Temporary Solution Perfect for Costuming or Cosplay
Some reviewers have also noted that there might not be enough to cover lots of hair, so consider buying two cans. Reviewers highly recommended this item for costumes, cosplay, and especially for Halloween. The red tone worked well even on darker brown hair.
21 Hair Colors That Are Non-Toxic and Chemical-Free
Some reviewers have noted that following the directions on the packaging may leave you with lacking in intense color, so they recommend leaving the product in much longer for better results–it is, after all, completely non-toxic and won’t damage your hair. Other reviewers found it to be very conditioning, long-lasting, and easy to use. The nice, fruity scent of Punky Colour was also a hit!
Creative Application for Shiny, Metallic Streaks
Some reviewers mentioned that the result can be a little clumpy without brushing. These mascaras might also make a bit of a mess if you touch your hair with it on, and they can stain certain countertops if you’re not careful. Many more reviewers loved the variety of colors and being able to color your hair in any manner of combination you want. They also mentioned that it washes out well and works better in small streaks.
MS.DEARMoon Glow Blacklight Neon Hair Mascara
A Hair Wax That Styles and Colors Your Hair
Get amazing color without bleaching or damaging your hair with Ms. Dear's Hair Color Wax! It comes in 9 shades, though some will show up better on dark hair than others. As a styling wax, it hardens when dry, so be careful not to overuse the product. The company recommends using this product for festivals, parties, and other fun events.
A few reviewers mentioned that there is a learning curve when applying the product. It's not like regular hair dye and it will cause clumps if you use too much. However, reviewers with black hair found the product to work exceptionally well - without having to use the entire jar! It was also very easy to wash out with just one shampoo.
Experiment to Your Heart's Content With These Hair Chalks
Some reviewers have noted that these do take a little bit of effort to apply, so it’s best not to color too much hair at once. However, they don’t produce any fallout, so you don’t have to worry about making a mess. Reviewers also liked how it was easy to apply without any help - even for kids!
Color X-ChangeColor X-Change Semi-Permanent Hair Color
A Dye for Tinting Your Light Brown Hair
Reviewers have mentioned that it does only last for a few washes - about a week or two. Other reviewers really liked how the application process was very easy and not messy. Some also enjoyed that Color-X-Change did not leave their hair feeling dry or damaged after use.
Set Yourself Up for Success–Things to Do Before You Dye
No matter if you want the color to last for just a night or a couple months, there are a few things to do to ensure the application process goes smoothly. Make sure to do a patch test on a small area of skin one day before you plan on dyeing your hair. If there’s any irritation, such as a developing rash or irritation of the skin, do not continue using the dye.
To prevent staining skin, put petroleum jelly or hair conditioner around your hairline on your forehead, ears, and neck. Cover everything else, such as furniture or clothing, that you don’t want to get stained as well. Also, be aware the things around you, especially if you’re using hair chalk or spray.
Take Care of that Colored Hair
Now that you've chosen your perfect temporary dye for dark hair, what about taking care of your color? Take a look at these other guides for more information on keeping your hair healthy and beautiful!
Buying Guide Reviewed by Licensed Cosmetologist Denise Campbell
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
Top 5 Temporary Hair Dyes For Dark Hair
No. 1: Arctic Fox｜Arctic Fox 100% Vegan Demi-Permanent Hair Dye
No. 2: Joico｜Joico Intensity Semi-Permanent Hair Color
No. 3: Biotera｜Biotera Sheer Illuminator
No. 4: Lime Crime｜Lime Crime Unicorn Hair
No. 5: High Ridge｜High Beams Intense Temporary Spray on Hair Color
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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