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How Toxic Is Your Hair Dye? Best & Worst Hair Color Brands

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Do you hate your gray hairs or just want a change? Hair dyes or hair color are one of the most amazing inventions of all time–it’s a product that makes us feel younger, more confident, and exciting. Naturally, the best way to get rid of that unwanted silver hair is with hair color. But if you’re trying to live a clean or use the best non-toxic hair dye, hair color formulas, for the most part, have a pretty toxic mix of chemicals that are unsafe and, in some cases, may be extremely harmful with regular use. You’ve trusted Mamavation to bring you topics like safest shampoos, safest cookware & safest deodorants, now join us as we tackle hair dye. And stick around for the end as we have ranked all the hair dye products and best hair color brands, even the ones with vivid colors.

Disclosure: This post was medically evaluated by Sondra Strand, RN, BSN, PHN & Rebecca Elizabeth Sherrick Harks, RN.  Products and manufacturing aides can change without notice so buyer beware. This post contains affiliate links, with most to Amazon, which means Mamavation will receive a portion of those sales and we will use that to pay ourselves back for the testing and research we do here. You can also give a tax-deductible donation to our consumer studies here through Environmental Health Sciences. Thank you! 

woman getting hair dyed

I’m Just Going to Break it To You–Your Chances of Getting Cancer Increase with Regular Use of Hair Dye

Cancer sucks. There’s nothing happy about it. Most of us know someone who has cancer or knows someone who has lost their lives to cancer. But when it comes to women who regularly use hair dye, those numbers start to go up. Here’s a list of cancers that are linked to regular use of hair dyes. While many debate the overall risk of various cancers and whether they are caused by permanent dye and their ingredients, it seems clear that there is a risk.

Is box hair dye bad? It’s important to put this into perspective and understand that we are surrounded with carcinogens and hormone disruptors all the time. Hair dyes seem to be a bigger exposure to women, but if you improve other areas like cookware, the mattress you sleep on, and shampoo you use, and the type of air purifiers and water filter you have. It lessens the overall impact of your hair dye. In other words, if this is too much for you, start detoxing elsewhere.  

Breast Cancer

A recent study out of Finland surveyed over 6,500 breast cancer patients, ages 22-60, and discovered that the odds of breast cancer increased by 23% among women who used hair dyes when compared to those that did not.

Bladder Cancer

A 2004 study suggested that there might be an increased risk of bladder cancer for people who dye their hair: “Overall, odds ratios (of getting bladder cancer) were somewhat elevated among women who began using hair dye after 1975, used dyes for more than 31 years and who used hair dyes more than 282 times.” Additionally, women who started regularly using hair dye before the age of 37 were also more at risk. While studies like these remain controversial, other studies have shown an increased risk of bladder cancer among professionals who use hair dye in their work (hairdressers and barbers).

Other Cancers

At least one study suggested a possible link between glioma, a type of brain cancer, and hair dye use. It was easy to find several studies linking permanent hair dye and leukemia, as well as at least one linking it to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

girl in black gloves hairdresser mixes hair dye

13 Basic Ingredients Inside Hair Dyes That Are Toxic and Should Be Minimized As Much as Possible

P-Phenylenediamine (PPD)

Used in permanent color, especially darker shades. It may also be contaminated with 4-ABP, a human carcinogen. According to the FDA, this is a skin allergen and irritant. In fact, the FDA does not allow its use on the skin in the form of black henna temporary tattoos.

There is a lot of conflicting and missing data on this particular ingredient, including whether or not it’s banned in Europe, whether the FDA tried to ban it outright and more. It is banned in Canada. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics claims that it has long been suspected to be carcinogenic and may alter DNA when mixed with hydrogen peroxide but to date, the data is not rigorous enough to be conclusive. The EPA also lists it as a respiratory toxin.

Resorcinol

This is an endocrine disrupter that impacts thyroid function. Skin and eye irritant.

Aminophenol

This is a known endocrine disrupter and at least one study has linked it to thyroid tumors.

Process of dyeing hair at beauty salon

Ethanolamines (MEA, TEA, DEA)

Some products contained ethanolamines, which have been shown to cause cancer in animal lab studies. When in use with certain other chemicals, they can form nitrosamines, which are a possible human carcinogen. These chemicals can bioaccumulate, even hair dyes. They also may impact male reproductive health, pregnancies, and possibly damage the liver or kidney and cause neurotoxic effects.

Some products include Cocamide MEA, which is meant to be a safer form of ethanolamine. Unfortunately, it may contain traces of Cocamide DEA, which has the same effect of producing nitrosamines.

1-Naphthol

This is a possible endocrine disruptor. At least one study suggests it may be linked to sperm DNA damage.

Toluene, Toluene-2,5-Diamine, and 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene

According to the CDC, toluene can impact your nervous system. Repeated exposure can lead to permanent problems and scientists are not sure if repeated low exposures will lead to permanent damage. Some studies have also suggested possible reproductive effects, such as spontaneous abortions, but it’s not clear. Toluene itself is the most harmful, but the other versions listed above are not completely safe either.

Quats

Short for ammonium quaternary sanitizers, quats have been linked to medical issues such as harming fertility, causing miscarriages, and severe birth defects in animal studies. Some are also endocrine disruptors. Certain quats can also release formaldehyde, even if the product does not contain any formaldehyde.

Ammonia

This chemical can harm eye, lungs, respiratory tract, and is very toxic for people with asthma or allergies.

Preparation of hair dye

Undisclosed Fragrance with Phthalates

Many hair colors employ undisclosed fragrances, likely to cover up the harsh chemical smell. These fragrances can come thousands of sources, so there is no way to tell what toxins are in them. There were few that did not have this ingredient. One problematic ingredient that could be hiding in “fragrance” is phthalate. Phthalates are an endocrine disruptor linked to cancers, weight gain, and infertility.

SLS/SLES

These surfactants can be an eye irritant. Some debate whether SLS is a carcinogen and other research states it may damage the immune system.

Lead Acetate (in “progressive” hair dye)

In October 2018, the FDA repealed approval for lead acetate as a color additive to hair dye. Progressive hair dyes may contain lead acetate but I did not find any thus far in the brands I checked.

toxic blonde hair dye

Propylene Glycol

This petroleum-based ingredient is often contaminated with carcinogenic compounds such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide which can also cause reproductive system toxicity, headache, and nausea.

Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone

These allergens/irritants were found in a few brands. They are potentially neurotoxic and demonstrate organ toxicity in lab studies.

Important Notes About “Coal-Tar” Hair Dyes

Historically, some hair dye ingredients were a by-product of the coal industry. Today, most dyes are synthetic and are petroleum-based, NOT coal-tar based. However, the FDA never changed the name.

Best (& Worst) Non-Toxic Detangler Hair Products 1

Additional Investigations by Mamavation

Are you looking for the safest box hair dye or other safe personal care products? Mamavation has been investigating the personal care aisle for many years and has many additional investigations for you to take a look at.

Personal Care

Feminine Care

Home Goods

chemical hair color dye onto hair roots

Mamavation’s Investigation of Hair Dyes

Mamavation reviewed hundreds of hair dye products for gray coverage, blonde hair, red hair, brown hair, dark hair, and dark brown hair, including temporary, semi-permanent, & permanent formulas. Not all hair dyes promise a natural look or use natural hair colors, but many do. Please use common sense, as many natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions. Do your due diligence and double-check the ingredients yourself.

As you can see, hair color is chock full of harmful ingredients. Almost all brands had at least one or 2 of these chemicals. Others were a whole toxic soup of these, plus many more. Ready to see how your brand was rated? Are brands like L’oreal and Revlon good for your hair? Is Just for Men safe? Let’s take a look.

Not Our Favorite Hair Dye / Hair Color Brands

These brands have five or more problematic ingredients in their formulation. Some of these hair dye brands may advertise themselves as more natural, but to rank higher, they would need to improve their formulations and remove chemicals linked to health issues. For the salon hair dye, Mamavation enlisted community members to visit salons across the United States and document the ingredients for each brand and product. Salon hair dye ingredients are typically not available online. For the home hair dyes, that information was available online, making it easy for us to evaluate.

Salon Hair Dye

  • 360 Permanent Haircolor (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + PPD derivative + 1-naphthol), ethanolamine, sulfates, multiple quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • All-Nutrient Professional Cream Haircolor  (Permanent)[quats, undisclosed fragrance, PTD, resorcinol family, 1-naphthol, 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene, aminophenols, ammonia, PPD derivative]
  • Aloxxi Luminexx Gel Cream Hair Color 5GV (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + pyridine + coupler), dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Aloxxi Luminexx Gel Cream Hair Color 9NG (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analogs + aminophenols), dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Aloxxi TONES Demi-Permanent Colour – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + aminophenol + pyrazole + coupler), ethanolamine, sulfates, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Areté Alchemic Color 5.3 Light Gold Brown (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analogs + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Areté Alchemic Color 9.0 Very Light Natural Blonde (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analogs + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Aveda Full Spectrum Permanent Hair Color – Natural series (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenols), ammonia, ethanolamine-related (MEA), and fragrance component]
  • CHI Color Express – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, multiple quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • CHI IONIC Permanent Shine – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, multiple quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • CHI Tone & Gloss Demi-Permanent Cream Toner – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Davines A New Color Copper (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + aminophenol + pyridine + pyrazolone), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Davines A New Color Golden (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols/cresols + nitro dye + pyridine coupler), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Davines The Present Time 4,3 (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + nitro dye + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Davines The Present Time 8,0 (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + PPD-like + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Davines View, 3 Golden (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + nitro dyes + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, sulfosuccinate surfactant, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • EcoColors Professional Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[ammonia, PPD-related, PTD, 1-naphthol, resorcinol analog, multiple strong sensitizers, and undisclosed fragrance/essential oils]
  • Eufora EuforaColor 6.0/6N – Low Ammonia [PPD, ammonia, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Eufora EuforaColor 7.0/7N – No Ammonia [PPD, resorcinol, strong sensitizers, ethanolamine, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • evo Hue-Verse Permanent Color –  all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + pyrazolone + coupler), ethanolamine, sulfonate surfactant, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • evo Hue-Verse Demi-Permanent Gloss – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + pyrazolone + coupler), ethanolamine, sulfonate surfactant, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Framesi Framcolor 2001 – all colors (Permanent)[PPD, ammonia, resorcinol, strong sensitizers, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Framesi Framcolor 2001 Intense – all colors (Permanent)[massive load of strong sensitizers (PPD + PTD + resorcinol family + 1-naphthol-level couplers + aminophenols + pyridine + nitro-related + PPD derivatives), dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Framesi Framcolor 2001 Intense 9.022 Very Light Blonde Blue Quartz (Permanent)[dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), PPD, resorcinol family, multiple strong sensitizers]
  • Framesi Framcolor Eclectic CARE (Permanent) – all colors[massive load of strong sensitizers (PPD + PTD + resorcinol family + 1-naphthol + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + pyridine + multiple aminophenols + PPD derivative), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Framesi Framcolor Futura – all colors (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, 1-naphthol, 2,6-DAP, resorcinol, toluene diamine, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Framesi Framcolor Glamour – all colors (Permanent)[ direct hits on PPD, ammonia, sulfates, multiple quats, multiple strong sensitizers (aminophenols + nitro dye), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Goldwell Topchic Hair Color 6NP Dark Natural Pearl Blonde (Permanent)[dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine/MEA), PTD, resorcinol family, multiple strong sensitizers, sulfates, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Goldwell Topchic Zero Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color 3N Dark Natural Brown (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + anisole derivative + coupler), ethanolamine, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Goldwell Topchic Zero Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color 8G Light Gold Blonde (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Goldwell SilkLift Light Dimensions Clay Lightener [persulfates + alkaline silicates + quat + fragrance]
  • Innersense Color Purity True Color 7N (Permanent)[ethanolamine + multiple strong sensitizers / restricted oxidative dye precursors/couplers (PTD-like, resorcinol analog, aminophenol, PPD derivative, pyridine coupler)]
  • Jack Winn Envelop Permanent Creme Color – all colors (Permanent)[PPD, ammonia, resorcinol analog, 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene, multiple strong sensitizers, ethanolamine-related, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Jack Winn Restore Demi-Permanent Creme Color 5N Brown (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + pyridine coupler), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Joico LumiShine Lumi10 4N/4.0 Natural Medium Brown (Permanent)[PPD, 1-naphthol, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Joico LumiShine Lumi10 8N/8.0 Natural Blonde (Permanent)[PPD, 1-naphthol, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Joico LumiShine Demi-Permanent Liquid Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PPD + resorcinol family + aminophenols), ethanolamine derivatives, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Joico Vero K-PAK Permanent Crème Color – all colors (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, 1-naphthol, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Joico Vero K-PAK Age Defy Permanent Crème Color – all colors (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, 1-naphthol, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia, multiple quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Kenra Kenra Color Permanent Coloring Creme – all colors (Permanent)[dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), PTD, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Kenra Kenra Color Studio Stylist Express Permanent Coloring Creme – all colors (Permanent)[dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), PTD, resorcinol family, multiple strong sensitizers, sulfates, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Keune So Pure Color 6.00 Dark Blonde (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, and a complex undisclosed fragrance]
  • Keune Tinta Color – generic ingredients for all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol-related + anisole derivative + coupler), ammonia, MEA/ethanolamine-related, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Kevin Murphy + CODE Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + coupler), ammonia, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Kevin Murphy Color.Me By Permanent Hair Color 8.00 LIGHT.BLONDE.INTENSE (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Kevin Murphy Color.Me By Permanent Hair Color 9.00 VERY.LIGHT.BLONDE.INTENSE (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + anisole derivative), ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • L’ANZA Healing Color Paraben + PPD Free Cream Hair Color [ammonia, resorcinol, PTD, 1-naphthol, PPD derivative, multiple strong sensitizers, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Lakmé Chroma Ammonia-Free Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + coupler), ethanolamine, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Lakmé Collage Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + PPD derivatives + couplers), ammonia, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Linange Diamond Permanent Hair Color Cream – all colors (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, ammonia, 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene, strong sensitizers, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Linange Sapphire Demi Permanent Color Cream – all colors (Demi Permanent)[ethanolamine (alkalizer), quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • L’Oréal Professionnel iNOA No Ammonia Permanent Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + PPD derivatives + aminophenol + pyridine coupler), ethanolamine, and sulfates]
  • L’Oréal Professionnel Majirel Permanent Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + coupler), ammonia compounds, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • L’Oréal Professionnel DIA Richesse Demi-Permanent Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + PPD derivative + couplers), ethanolamine, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Matrix SoColor Pre-Bonded Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia + ethanolamine, quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Matrix SoColor Sync Pre-Bonded Alkaline Toner – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + PPD derivative + aminophenol + couplers), ethanolamine, dual quats, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Matrix Super Sync Glossing Alkaline Demi – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Milbon SOPHISTONE Permanent Color 5G (5/3) (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + nitro dye), ammonia, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Milbon SOPHISTONE Permanent Color 9N (9/0) (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + nitro dye), ammonia, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Milbon SOPHISTONE Demi Color 5G (5/3) (Demi Permanent)[PPD, HC Red 3, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ethanolamine, sulfonate surfactant, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Milbon SOPHISTONE Demi Color 9N (9/0) (Demi Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, HC Red 3, resorcinol analog, multiple strong sensitizers, ethanolamine, fragrance, and a harsh surfactant]
  • Moroccanoil Color Rhapsody Permanent Cream Color –  all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + coupler), ammonia, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Moroccanoil Color Rhapsody 10 Permanent Cream Color 4NB/4.01 Medium Natural Ash Brown (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia compounds, harsh alkali, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Moroccanoil Color Rhapsody 10 Permanent Cream Color 9N/9.0 Very Light Blonde (Permanent)[direct hits on PPD, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ammonia compounds, harsh alkali, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Moroccanoil Color Rhapsody Ultimates Permanent Cream Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + coupler), ammonia, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Moroccanoil Color Calypso Demi-Permanent Cream Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[PPD, resorcinol, 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene, multiple strong sensitizers, quats, undisclosed fragrance, and a harsh alkali]
  • Moroccanoil Color Calypso Demi-Permanent Gloss – all colors (Demi Permanent)[PPD, resorcinol, 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene, multiple strong sensitizers, quats, undisclosed fragrance, and a harsh alkali]
  • NATULIQUE Natural Colors Permanent Ammonia-Free Hair Coloring 2.07 Carbon [PPD (highest-risk on your list), HC Red 3, resorcinol family, PTD, 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene, multiple strong sensitizers, ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • NATULIQUE Natural Colors Permanent Ammonia-Free Hair Coloring 7.0 Natural Blonde [PPD (highest-risk allergen on your list), 1-naphthol, resorcinol, multiple strong sensitizers, ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • NATULIQUE ZERO Hair Colors Permanent Ammonia-Free Hair Coloring (PPD-free)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + anisole derivative), ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • NATULIQUE ZERO Hair Colors Permanent Ammonia-Free Hair Coloring (PPD-free) 9.0 Very Light Blonde [multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + anisole derivative), ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • NATULIQUE Natural Colors Demi-Permanent Liquid Ammonia-Free Colors [PPD (highest-risk allergen), resorcinol, multiple aminophenols, DEA (ethanolamine-related), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • O&M CØR.color 6.03 Dark Beige Blonde [multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols), ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • O&M CØR.color 7.0 Blonde [multiple oxidative dye precursors/couplers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + coupler), ethanolamine, sulfate, and fragrance]
  • Organic Color Systems Permanent Color Gel – all colors (Permanent)[strong sensitizers (PPD + PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + NPPD + nitro dyes + pyridine + pyrazole), ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Oway Hcolor 9.0 Natural Very Light Blonde [(PPD + PTD + NPPD + resorcinol family + 1-naphthol + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + ethanolamine + quat + fragrance + multiple strong sensitizers)]
  • OYA Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[dense cluster of strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenol + anisole derivative), ammonia, sulfate, quat, and fragrance allergens]
  • OYA Demi-Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol + aminophenol + anisole derivative), ethanolamine, sulfate, dual quats, and fragrance allergens]
  • Paul Mitchell The Color Permanent Cream Hair Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PPD + resorcinol analogs + aminophenol-like + coupler), dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), and fragrance components]
  • Paul Mitchell The Demi Demi-Permanent Hair Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[ multiple strong sensitizers (PPD + resorcinol + aminophenol + nitro dye + pyridine), sulfate, alkalizer, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • PRAVANA ChromaSilk Permanent Creme Hair Color 5N Light Brown (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol family + aminophenols/cresols), ammonia, fragrance allergens, & quats]
  • PRAVANA ChromaSilk Permanent Creme Hair Color 10N Extra Light Blonde (Permanent)[multiple direct banned-or-heavily-restricted strong sensitizers (PPD itself + toluene diamine + resorcinol + aminophenols), ammonia, fragrance allergens, & quats]
  • PRAVANA ChromaSilk Express Tones After Dark Neutral Pearl – Brunette (Demi Permanent)[dense cluster of oxidative dye precursors/couplers (many explicit or strong sensitizers), resorcinol analogs, ethanolamine, fragrance allergens, and quats]
  • Pulp Riot FACTION8 Permanent Color – all colors (Permanent) [multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + coupler), dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Redken Color Gels Oils – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol-level couplers + aminophenols + PPD derivative + pyridine), ethanolamine, and potential fragrance components]
  • R+Co R+COLOR OMNIPRESENT Liqui-Crème Permanent Color – all colors (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenol), ammonia, and quats]
  • R+Co R+COLOR STAR SIGN Demi-Permanent Crème Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenol + PPD derivative + coupler), ethanolamine, and quats]
  • R+Co R+COLOR STELLAR Demi-Permanent Liquid Hair Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenol + PPD derivative + coupler + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene), ethanolamine, and quats]
  • R+Co R+COLOR HYPERMATIC 10 Minute Demi-Permanent Liquid Color VA10 Mallow (Demi Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + p-aminophenol + couplers), ethanolamine, and two quats]
  • Schwarzkopf IGORA Color10 Natural Brown 5-0 [harsh dual alkalizers, strong sensitizers (Toluenes, Direct PTD/TDS, 2,4-Diaminophenoxyethanol HCl + m-Aminophenol ), sulfates, Direct resorcinol + analog, undisclosed fragrance, & quats]
  • Schwarzkopf IGORA ROYAL Color Creme 4-68 Medium Auburn Brown (Permanent) [ammonia + dual sulfates + resorcinol family + PTD + quats + fragrance]
  • Schwarzkopf IGORA ROYAL Color Creme 9-0 Extra Light Blonde (Permanent) [ammonia + multiple sulfates + resorcinol family + PTD + quats + fragrance allergens + strong sensitizers]
  • Schwarzkopf IGORA ZERO AMM Ammonia-Free Color Creme 5-88 Light Brown Red Extra (Permanent) [multiple oxidative dye precursors (PTD + direct 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene + aminophenol + pyrazole sensitizer), sulfate surfactant, and ethanolamine]
  • Schwarzkopf IGORA ZERO AMM Ammonia-Free Color Creme 9-0 Extra Light Blonde Natural (Permanent) [(PTD + resorcinol family + multiple aminophenols/cresols), sulfate surfactant, and ethanolamine]
  • Schwarzkopf IGORA VIBRANCE 4-0 Medium Brown Natural (Demi Permanent) [dense cluster of oxidative dye precursors/couplers (many explicit on your list or strong sensitizers), resorcinol family, ethanolamine, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Scruples True Integrity Opalescent Creme Color – all colors (Permanent or Demi)[dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine) make it especially harsh, combined with PTD (strong sensitizer) and other restricted oxidative ingredients + fragrance + a quat]
  • Scruples Color Art Fresh Demi-Permanent Liquid Haircolor – all colors (Demi Permanent)[clusters of oxidative sensitizers + ethanolamine + sulfate + quat + fragrance allergens]
  • Surface Pure Color Hy-Demi Gel Color, 4N Natural – Dark Roast [multiple oxidative dye ingredients (strong sensitizers + restricted EU substances), resorcinol, ethanolamine, and fragrance]
  • Surface Pure Color Hy-Demi Gel Color, 7C Copper – Spice [multiple oxidative dye precursors that are either explicitly listed or strong sensitizers in the PPD/aminophenol family, plus ethanolamine and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Tocco Magico Freelux Color – all colors (Permanent) [multiple oxidative dye precursors/couplers (PTD/TDS), banned in the EU (2-chloro-p-phenylenediamine sulfate), strong sensitizers (PPD derivatives, resorcinol analog, ethanolamine (alkalizer) + & undisclosed fragrance]
  • Wella Koleston Perfect Me+ Permanent Creme Hair Color 3/0 Dark Brown/Natural (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PPD derivative + resorcinol + aminophenol-like + pyrazole + coupler), ammonia, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Wella Koleston Perfect Me+ Permanent Creme Hair Color 9/1 Very Light Blonde/Ash (Permanent)[multiple strong sensitizers (PPD derivative + resorcinol + aminophenol + coupler), ammonia, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • yuv Permanent & Demi Colour Cream – all colors [strong sensitizers (MEPPD, PPD, m-Aminophenol, p-Aminophenol, 4-Amino-m-cresol, 2,4-Diaminophenoxyethanol HCl, 5-Amino-6-chloro-o-cresol), 1-Naphthol, Resorcinol analog, ammonia, & undisclosed fragrance]

Home Hair Dye Brands

  • Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Color [Ammonia, sulfates, strong sensitizers (PPD, aminophenol family, 2-4-diaminophenoxyethanol HCL), resorcinol, & undisclosed fragrances]
  • Garnier Olia (Ammonia-Free) Permanent Hair Color [Ethanolamine, sulfates, resorcinol, PTD/TDS, and other strong sensitizers, & undisclosed fragrances]
  • Herbatint 9N Honey Blonde [PPD, resorcinol analogs, multiple strong sensitizers (aminophenols), ethanolamine, and a quat]
  • IGK Permanent Hair Color Kit [Ethanolamine, Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate (PTD), resorcinol analogs, m-Aminophenol, p-Aminophenol, 2-Amino-3-Hydroxypyridine, 2,4-Diaminophenoxyethanol HCl, & other Multiple strong sensitizers + PPD-like chemistry, & undisclosed fragrances]
  • John Frieda Precision Foam Colour [Direct ammonia chemicals, strong sensitizers (toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate), resorcinol, ethoxylated surfactants, & undisclosed fragrances]
  • Just for Men Touch of Gray [multiple strong sensitizers from the PPD/aminophenol family + undisclosed fragrance]
  • Kristin Ess Signature Hair Gloss (example: Chocolate Cosmo or similar)[Ethanolamine. sulfates, strong sensitizers (PTD/TDS, aminophenol family chemicals, resorcinol +analog, 1-naphthol, & undisclosed fragrance]
  • L’Oréal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Color [ammonia chemicals, ethanolamine chemicals, quats, undisclosed fragrances, multiple strong sensitizers (P-Phenylenediamine, Resorcinol, m-Aminophenol, 2,4-Diaminophenoxyethanol HCl, resorcinol)]
  • Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit [ethanolamine chemicals, strong sensitizers (toluene, P-aminophenol), resorcinol analogs, & undisclosed fragrances.]
  • Natulique Natural Colour 7.0 Medium Blonde [multiple strong sensitizers (PPD + resorcinol family + aminophenols + 1-naphthol), ethanolamine, sulfate, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Naturgin Permanent Hair Color 4.0 Brown [sulfates, ethanolamine, strong sensitizers (PPD, multiple aminophenols, resorcinol analogs) & undisclosed fragrance]
  • Naturtint 1N Ebony Black Permanent Hair Color [sulfates, ethanolamine, strong sensitizers (PPD, p-Aminophenol, 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene, 2-Methylresorcinol, 2-Amino-4-Hydroxyethylaminoanisole Sulfate), resorcinol, & undisclosed fragrance]
  • Phytocolor (Phyto) Permanent Hair Color (example: 4 Brown)[multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + PPD derivative + 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene), ethanolamine, quat, and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Pulpriot Faction8 Double Natural [multiple strong sensitizers (PTD + resorcinol analog + aminophenols + coupler), dual alkalizers (ammonia + ethanolamine), and undisclosed fragrance]
  • Revlon ColorSilk (or Beautiful Color with Bond Repair)[ethanolamine chemicals, strong sensitizers, resorcinol, aminophenols, undisclosed fragrance]
  • Tints of Nature Permanent Color 3N [ethanolamine chemicals, extreme sensitizer (PPD), resorcinol analogs, n-phenyl-phenylenediamine (NPPD), m-Aminophenol + 2-Amino-4-Hydroxyethylaminoanisole Sulfate, & undisclosed fragrance]

toxic hair dye application

Better Hair Dye/ Hair Color Brands

These brands contain 3-5 problematic ingredients in their formulations. While these likely aren’t the best hair dye brands, this is the sweet spot where you will find a compromise between your health and effectiveness. For the salon hair dye, Mamavation enlisted community members to visit salons across the United States and document the ingredients for each brand and product. Salon hair dye ingredients are typically not available online. For the home hair dyes, that information was available online, making it easy for us to evaluate. You’ll notice lighter colors typically land here in the “better” zone.

Salon Hair Dyes

  • Lakmé Glaze Demi-Permanent Hair Color (Demi Permanent)[quats, undisclosed fragrance, & ethoxylated ingredients]
  • Wella Color Touch Ammonia-Free Demi-Permanent Cream Hair Color – all colors (Demi Permanent)[combination of ethanolamine, sulfates, and undisclosed fragrance]

Home Hair Dye Brands

  • Arctic Fox (permanent)[multiple quats, undisclosed fragrance, strong sensitizer preservatives (MI/MCI), and cationic dyes]
  • Arctic Fox (Semi-permanent)[multiple quats, undisclosed fragrance, strong sensitizer preservatives (MI/MCI), and shade-dependent basic dyes]
  • Beyond the Zone Color (Semi Permanent) [quats + undisclosed fragrance]
  • Davines [quats + undisclosed fragrance]
  • Good Dye Young Hair Color (semi-permanent)[multiple quats, undisclosed fragrance]
  • Lime Crime [multiple quats, undisclosed fragrance, strong sensitizer preservatives (MI/MCI]
  • L’Oréal Paris Feria [paraben, quats, undisclosed fragrance]
  • Overtone [multiple quats]
  • Sun-In [quats + undisclosed fragrance]
  • Tints of Nature [multiple quats, undisclosed fragrance & triethanolamine]

Beautiful young woman with red dyed hair

Best Hair Dye / Hair Color Brands

These brands have the fewest problematic ingredients in their formulations. However, these formulations are ammonia- and paraben-free and are among the least toxic hair colors we could find. For the salon hair dye, Mamavation enlisted community members to visit salons across the United States and document the ingredients for each brand and product. Salon hair dye ingredients are typically not available online. For the home hair dyes, that information was available online, making it easy for us to evaluate.

Salon Hair Dyes

  • Goldwell Elumen Long Lasting Hair Color Oxidant-Free NN@5 (Permanent)[undisclosed fragrance]
  • Goldwell Elumen Long Lasting Hair Color Oxidant-Free BR@6 (Permanent)[undisclosed fragrance]
  • Goldwell Elumen Long Lasting Hair Color Oxidant-Free NN@9 (Permanent)[undisclosed fragrance]

Home Hair Dye Brands

Recent Product Investigations