7 Best Black Hair Dye Shampoos for Vibrant, Glossy Color
Let's be real—there's something absolutely stunning about jet-black hair that catches the light just right. Whether you're looking to refresh your natural black hair or want to dive into the world of dramatic colour transformation, black hair dye shampoo might just be your new best friend. These clever little bottles combine the convenience of your regular shampoo routine with the colour-depositing power of hair dye, making it easier than ever to maintain that gorgeous, glossy black you're after. No salon appointments, no messy mixing—just wash, rinse, and watch your hair transform. Worth a try? Absolutely.
Think of black hair dye shampoo as your regular shampoo's more colourful cousin. These products contain colour-depositing pigments that gradually build up on your hair shaft with each use, creating a deeper, richer black tone over time. Unlike permanent black hair dye that opens up your hair cuticles to deposit colour deep within the cortex, hair dye shampoos work more gently. They coat the outside of your hair strands with temporary colour molecules that wash out gradually over several washes. This means less damage to your hair structure, but it also means you'll need to use the product regularly to maintain your desired shade. The beauty of this approach? You get to control the intensity. Use it daily for deeper colour payoff, or alternate with your regular shampoo for a more subtle enhancement.
Not all black hair shampoos are created equal, and finding your perfect match depends on several key factors.
230 mlProfessional Black Seed Therapy Shampoo
Look for formulas that include nourishing ingredients alongside the colour pigments. Keratin helps strengthen your hair structure, whilst argan oil and coconut oil provide moisture and shine. These ingredients ensure your hair doesn't just look darker—it looks healthier too.
Steer clear of products loaded with harsh sulphates, which can strip your hair and make colour fade faster. Parabens and ammonia are also red flags—they can cause irritation and damage over time.
Fine hair tends to absorb colour more quickly, so you might need less frequent applications. Coarse or previously colour-treated hair might require more consistent use to see results. If you've got sensitive skin or scalp issues, opt for gentler formulations with natural ingredients.
Ready to discover your next fave? Here are seven standout options that deliver on both colour and hair health.
This German powerhouse doesn't just add black pigments—it neutralises unwanted brassy tones that can dull your colour. Perfect for maintaining salon-fresh black hair at home. **Best for:** Previously coloured hair that needs tone correction **Key features:** Purple pigments to counteract brassiness, gentle cleansing formula **Pro tip:** Use once or twice weekly to avoid over-toning
Truly temporary and perfect for those who love to experiment. This hair color shampoo gives you bold black colour that fades completely within a few washes. **Best for:** Commitment-phobes and special occasions **Key features:** Ammonia-free formula, vibrant colour payoff **Worth noting:** Works best on pre-lightened or light hair
More than just a hair coloring shampoo, this one's packed with avocado, olive, and shea oils to nourish whilst it colours. Your hair gets the royal treatment every time you wash. **Best for:** Dry or damaged hair needing extra TLC **Key features:** Nourishing oils, gradual colour build-up **Bonus:** No ammonia, no peroxide
Technically a demi-permanent treatment, but it washes like a shampoo and deposits rich black pigments with each use. Great for enhancing natural black hair or adding depth to brown hair. **Best for:** Natural hair enhancement and grey coverage **Key features:** Coconut oil and aloe vera formula **Coverage:** Up to 4 weeks of colour
Whilst primarily known for red shades, this brand's colour-depositing technology works brilliantly for black hair products too. Look for their darker shade variants. **Best for:** Gradual colour enhancement **Key features:** Gentle daily use formula **Perfect if:** You want subtle, buildable colour
This budget-friendly option combines colour protection with gentle colour deposit. Not the most dramatic transformation, but perfect for maintaining existing black hair colour. **Best for:** Budget-conscious users and colour maintenance **Key features:** Natural ingredients, pleasant fragrance **Reality check:** Works best on already dark hair
A professional-grade option that delivers salon-quality results at home. This black hair tinting shampoo is beloved by hairstylists for its consistent colour payoff and hair-healthy formula. **Best for:** Serious colour commitment and professional results **Key features:** Professional-grade pigments, strengthening formula **Investment piece:** Higher price point but superior quality
Getting the best results from your hair dye for black hair requires a bit of technique—but nothing too complicated.
Start with damp (not soaking) hair. Apply the shampoo evenly from roots to tips, working it through with your fingers. Leave it on for the recommended time—usually 3-5 minutes for colour deposit, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Use gloves to avoid staining your hands and nails. Apply petroleum jelly around your hairline to prevent skin staining. For even colour distribution, comb the product through your hair whilst it processes.
Most black hair care products work best with consistent use. Start with every other wash, then adjust based on your desired intensity. Some people use it daily for the first week, then maintain with twice-weekly applications.
Once you've achieved that perfect black shade, keeping it vibrant requires some strategic aftercare.
Invest in colour-safe conditioners and leave-in treatments. Look for products specifically designed for colour-treated hair—they help seal the cuticle and lock in pigments.
UV rays and high heat can fade your colour faster than you'd like. Use heat protectant sprays before styling and consider UV-protective hair products if you spend lots of time outdoors.
Wash with lukewarm water instead of hot—it helps preserve colour molecules and prevents premature fading. Finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticle and add shine.
Whilst generally gentler than permanent hair dye, black hair dye shampoos still require some caution.
Skin staining is the most frequent issue—especially around the hairline and ears. Some people experience scalp sensitivity or dryness with regular use.
Always do a patch test 24-48 hours before first use. Apply a small amount behind your ear and wait to see if any irritation develops. If you have sensitive skin or existing scalp conditions, consult with a dermatologist first. With Smytten's trial packs, you can actually test different black hair products before committing to full-size purchases. It's a brilliant way to find your perfect match without the risk of ending up with a product that doesn't suit your hair type.
Generally yes, black hair dye shampoos are much gentler than permanent dyes. They don't contain ammonia or high levels of peroxide, making them safer for regular use. However, always patch test first and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Most temporary black hair dye shampoos last 4-12 washes, depending on your hair's porosity and the product's formulation. Semi-permanent versions can last 4-6 weeks with proper care.
The best choice depends on your specific needs. For natural hair enhancement, try Garnier Nutrisse Color Reviver. For dramatic temporary change, L'Oréal Colorista Washout works brilliantly. For professional results, Matrix Total Results is worth the investment.
Apply to damp hair, work through evenly, leave for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Use gloves and protect your skin with petroleum jelly around the hairline. Start with every other wash and adjust frequency based on desired results.
It depends on the percentage of grey and the product's formulation. Most hair dye shampoos provide excellent grey blending rather than complete coverage. For heavy grey coverage, you might need a stronger semi-permanent option.
Most formulations work on various hair types, but results vary. Fine hair absorbs colour more quickly, whilst coarse hair might need more frequent applications. Chemically treated hair often takes colour better than virgin hair.
Start with every other wash for the first week, then adjust based on your results. Some people maintain their colour with 2-3 uses per week, whilst others prefer daily use for deeper colour.
Black hair dye shampoo offers an brilliant way to achieve and maintain gorgeous black hair without the commitment or damage of permanent colour. Whether you're enhancing your natural shade or trying something completely new, these products give you control over your colour journey. The key is finding the right formula for your hair type and colour goals. Some work better for subtle enhancement, whilst others deliver dramatic transformation. Remember that consistency is crucial—these products work gradually, building colour with each use. Smytten makes discovering your perfect black hair dye shampoo so much easier. With trial packs from trusted hair care brands, you can explore different formulations risk-free. Try multiple products to see which ones work best with your hair type, then invest in full-size versions of your favourites. After all, why settle for 'maybe' when you can try them all and find your perfect match? With over 1,500 brands available and 100% cashback on trial purchases, finding your ideal black hair care routine has never been more affordable or rewarding.
